It has been reported in the media that the head of the FCC plans to propose new rules that would prohibit Internet service providers from interfering with the free flow of information and certain applications over their network. The proposal is being refered by term 'Internet neutrality' — the equal treatment of Internet traffic. This would bar Internet service providers such as Verizon Communications Inc., Comcast Corp. or AT&T Inc., from slowing or blocking certain services or content flowing through their vast networks.
Now what I am wondering is that how would a regulator ensure the implementation. If an ISP decides to interfere in access of Youtube on grounds that such high content sites actually come in way of fair use of resources by all; its difficult for the regulator to know the same. Without strict rules ensuring Net neutrality, it is feared that the communications companies could interfere with the transmission of content, such as TV shows delivered over the Internet, that compete with services the ISPs offer, like cable television.
Internet providers have opposed regulations that would inhibit the way they control their networks, arguing they need to be able to make sure applications that consume a lot of bandwidth don't slow Internet access to other users.
The FCC adopted four principles on Internet policy in 2005. Two years later, it said it would study the business practices of high-speed Internet providers and consider whether a principle of nondiscrimination in traffic should be added. The FCC's existing net neutrality principles have focused on high-speed Internet access delivered over wireline systems. But Google Inc. and other big technology companies, as well as consumer advocacy groups, have called for rules that would require wireless networks to be similarly open to all devices and applications.
Extending the principles to the wireless arena is going to be a bit difficult because the regulation of wireless is very different than the regulation of the wireline networks, where the FCC has played a much stronger role. In wireless, companies operate in a very independent market with absolutely no government subsidies or government involvement.
The FCC began wading into the issue even before Genachowski became FCC chairman. Last year the FCC rebuked Comcast for blocking or delaying some forms of Internet file-sharing. Comcast agreed to stop the practice. The new rule to the extent will be more prescriptive and implementation, I think, will remain a challenge
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