The net as we know it is under threat. Even Tim Berners-Lee, the man widely credited as being the creator of the web, has said that if certain groups get their way, the net could enter “a dark period”. So what’s the issue? It’s all about net neutrality.

Net neutrality refers to the idea that any web surfer can view John Doe’s blog as easily as they can the website of a multinational corporation. However, it’s feared that if net neutrality isn’t enshrined in the law, then before too long Internet companies will begin working it so that those who pay the most will have the best chance of ending up on the screen of your pc. This, of course, flies in the face of the web’s guiding principle, that of a free and open Internet

In other words, the Internet providers want to act as gatekeepers, controlling which sites load quickly, slowly, or quite possibly not at all. The beauty of today’s web is that the consumers are in control. Unless provisions are made in the law, it’ll be the Internet companies who decide which content and services you receive.

Without net neutrality, it’ll be harder for the small fry with big ideas to get their foot in the door. Think Google; think Amazon; think You Tube. That’s right, startups and entrepreneurs will be running a poor second behind the big corporations who can afford to pay top dollar for the priority seats. 

Internet companies are already talking about their intention to change the way the net works and that’s why those who wish to keep the net neutral must act now. To find out more about net neutrality, and how you can help, visit: