Global - Internet - Net Neutrality Insights

Synopsis

The Internet has joined the road and rail networks, the postal system and the global telephone network as a vital communications system; particularly in developed countries. The principle known as ‘Network Neutrality’ allows Internet users to access any web content or applications they choose, without restriction or limitation. This is taken for granted by the billions of people who access the Internet worldwide. However a concerning concept arose a few years ago and it is yet unresolved. Carriers would like to be able to charge for tiered network service – and this will have global implications if it succeeds. This report provides an overview and analysis of the net neutrality debate, with a focus on developments in Europe and USA.

Table of Contents

• 1. Synopsis
• 2. Introduction
  • 2.1 Commercial expansion of the Internet
• 3. Network neutrality – a global issue
  • 3.1.1 Broadband a general purpose technology
  • 4. Carriers in competition with content providers
  • 5. Network neutrality and non-discrimination
  • 6. Developments in Europe
  • 6.2 Network neutrality becoming a major concern for Europe's governments
    • 6.2.1 BT to challenge ‘net neutrality’ despite Ofcom promise to regulate
• 7. Developments in the USA
  • 7.1 In the global context
• 8. No-one owns the Internet
• 9. Related reports

• Exhibit 1 – Implications of ending net neutrality