Net neutrality is the principle that internet service providers should treat all lawful internet traffic equally, without blocking, throttling or giving paid priority to particular websites, apps or services.
Why it matters
Supporters argue that net neutrality keeps the internet open, so a small startup can reach users on the same terms as a large company, and that providers should not choose winners. Opponents argue that traffic management and different service tiers can be reasonable and can fund investment. Rules differ widely by country and have changed over time in some, so the legal position depends on where you are. Practices such as zero-rating, where certain apps do not count toward a data cap, are debated.
Example
Imagine a provider that slows a competing video service during evening hours while leaving its own video service at full speed. A net neutrality rule would forbid that kind of discrimination. By contrast, a provider managing a genuine network emergency is usually treated as an allowed exception.
Common mistakes
- Treating net neutrality as a single worldwide law. It is a principle implemented differently in different regions.
- Assuming it means the internet is free of charge. It concerns how traffic is treated, not what plans cost.
- Confusing it with privacy rules.
Related
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This page is general information written by our editorial team and updated when documentation changes. Servers and providers differ, so test changes safely first. See our editorial policy and disclaimer.