The Covid-19 Pandemic Shows the Virtues of Net Neutrality

The Covid-19 Pandemic Shows the Virtues of Net Neutrality

4 years ago
Anonymous $9CO2RSACsf

https://www.wired.com/story/covid-19-pandemic-shows-virtues-net-neutrality/

Net neutrality—the idea that internet service providers should treat all traffic equally—might seem quaint during the Covid-19 pandemic. Internet traffic is surging, so why not tap the brakes on entertainment or porn to make sure people can access schoolwork, health care information, and apply for unemployment?

But who should decide which internet services deserve special treatment? Maybe Zoom and other video conferencing apps should get priority, since they’re used for remote work, telehealth, and education. But people also use them for socializing and games. Or maybe providers should throttle streaming video services like Netflix and YouTube. But those services can be used in education too, not to mention keeping up with current events.