The FCC's repeal of net neutrality has sparked significant debate over how the internet may change. Here's a summary of what to expect and how to recognize shifts in how ISPs manage web traffic.

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What Is Net Neutrality?

• Definition: The principle that all internet traffic should be treated equally, without favoritism for certain websites or services.
• Previous Rules:
• Prohibited blocking or throttling lawful content.
• Banned paid prioritization ("fast lanes") for websites that pay ISPs extra.
• Repeal: The FCC officially rolled back these rules, giving ISPs more control.

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Immediate ChangesNot Likely

• Experts predict changes will be gradual and subtle, making them harder to detect.
• Consumer vigilance is key as ISPs may introduce changes incrementally.

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What to Watch For:

1. Rise of Zero-Rating Plans

• What It Is: ISPs exempt certain services from data caps (e.g., AT&T's DirecTV Now, T-Mobile's Spotify streaming).
• Potential Impacts:
• Consumers may prefer ISPs’ own services due to cost advantages.
• Streaming competitors like Netflix may face increased costs, which could be passed on to users.
• State Actions: California and others are considering bans on zero-rating plans.

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2. Internet Price Hikes

• Access Fees: ISPs might charge web companies (e.g., Netflix, Amazon) fees to deliver content, potentially raising consumer costs.
• Paid Prioritization: Companies paying for "fast lanes" could pass these costs to users.

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3. Tiered Internet Plans

• Example: Similar to cable TV packages, low-tier plans might only allow basic browsing, while premium plans grant access to gaming or video streaming.
• Likelihood: Experts say this is unlikely soon, but the model exists in some European countries.

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4. Challenges for Startups

• Startups may struggle to compete if they can’t afford to pay for fast lanes.
• Potential disadvantage for nonprofits, educational institutions, and smaller companies.

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5. Content Blocking Risks

• ISPs could theoretically block or slow content from competitors, though they claim they won’t.
• Historical Examples:
• Madison River blocked VoIP services in 2005.
• Comcast slowed BitTorrent traffic.
• AT&T restricted Skype and FaceTime over its cellular network.

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The Ongoing Fight for Net Neutrality

• Congressional Review Act (CRA): Passed in the Senate, but faces challenges in the House and potential presidential veto.
• State-Level Actions:
• Washington and Oregon passed net neutrality laws.
• Executive orders in several states prohibit contracts with ISPs that violate net neutrality principles.
• Lawsuits: More than 20 states and D.C. are challenging the FCC repeal in court.

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Consumer Insights

• Surveys often show broad public support for net neutrality, with over two-thirds opposing ISP control over website access.
• Both sides of the debate agree that a federal law is needed for clarity and consistency.

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What You Can Do

Stay Vigilant: Monitor your ISP’s practices for throttling, blocking, or unfair prioritization.

Advocate: Support state or federal initiatives aimed at reinstating net neutrality rules.

Educate Yourself: Understand the implications of tiered pricing and zero-rating deals on your internet experience.

The battle for net neutrality is far from over, and consumer awareness will be crucial in shaping the future of the internet.

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