Rulemaking in the Name of a Free and Open Internet
Abstract
Network neutrality is a principle dictating that traffic flowing over a network does so without discrimination. Whether government regulation is necessary to ensure the Internet as we know it is perpetuated in today's relatively neutral state is being debated more and more, as use of the Internet becomes more vital to everyone on a day-to-day basis and content grows at an incredible rate. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in 2009 decided to act in this regard and proceed in an attempt to identify rules that will preserve a free and open Internet. The basis of these rules are six principles that the FCC has proposed (directed at broadband providers) that outline what it believes will maintain a free and open Internet. Debate has formed among three groups: Those favoring this sort of regulation by the government Those who determine it is unnecessary Those who propose that the FCC, has no authority granted by Congress to implement its proposed rules. This thesis examines the debate, formulates conclusions, and proposes recommendations that will ensure the Internet remains the incredibly effective innovation tool into which it has grown.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA531577
Entities
People
- Bradley Teemley
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School