Wednesday, March 04, 2015
Recently, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) came to terms on new standards that will protect net neutrality, or the ‘openness’ of the Internet. The announcement is good news for the everyday user, says the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Here’s why.Internet providers can’t bar access to websites.
Under the new rules, Internet service providers (ISPs) are prohibited from blocking access to sites, including apps and services. They also can’t purposefully impede traffic to a site or prioritize traffic to the website of a company affiliate. The rules also apply to mobile Web.
Internet providers must disclose information.
ISPs are now required to provide information, such as promotion rates, data caps and surcharges, in a consistent format. They’re also required to relay information about network management that can affect service.
Internet providers have incentive to improve their services.
The new rules re-categorized ISPs under the telecommunications umbrella, but they’re not subject to the same tax provisions as other utilities. This encourages ISPs to invest in new ways to provide customers with enhanced offerings.
And because technology is ever-changing, the FCC granted itself the authority to evaluate future issues as they arise.
Source: BBB.org
RISMedia welcomes your questions and comments. Send your e-mail to: realestatemagazinefeedback@rismedia.com