The ruling against net neutrality and why you should be worried

Yesterday, a federal appeals court struck down the “net neutrality” rule that the FCC had implemented back in 2010. The ramifications of the decision will be widespread all over the internet, with the potential monopolization of the open web in danger of coming to fruition. However, what exactly is “net neutrality,” and why should we be worried? If you want hard-hitting facts and a complete background on the issue, CNET has a large FAQ detailing the current hot button issue. For a general summary of why the anti-net neutrality ruling is so important and worrisome, the Wall Street Journal published a video which you can watch elsewhere.

Allow me to summarize the issue: Net neutrality means that every Internet Service Provider (ISP), such as Comcast, AT&T, Verizon, etc., must treat every piece of online content the same (hence, being neutral to all websites). Connection speeds for every website must be the same across the board, so YouTube videos are treated the same as Vines, Netflix speeds are the same as Redbox speeds, etc. Of course, each individual website must account for their own speeds due to content, large file sizes, etc. However, with the new ruling, the fairness of the open web is thrown out of the window in exchange for monopolizing and monetizing web services.

For example, AT&T could enter a contract with YouTube allowing AT&T subscribers to experience YouTube in full HD quality with the highest speeds; Comcast subscribers would still be able to access YouTube, just not at full speeds or the highest quality. The ruling opens up the field for major sites to monopolize their fields, restricting similar smaller sites from growing. As another example, Netflix could strike a deal with all of the ISPs to keep service running smoothly while also preventing services like Redbox or Amazing Instant from streaming at full strength.

This monopolization of the internet gives ISPs full power and control over the internet with no regulation. The FCC can (and should) appeal the ruling, but for now, we’re facing a potential new era of the internet where we are powerless to resist new business models (i.e. “online packages” much like cable/satellite subscriptions). Small sites, such as Ruby Hornet, face a treacherous road under this new dawn of the internet, with consumers and businesses alike affected the most by the ruling.

We’ll make sure we keep all of you informed of new rulings and appeals as they happen.