Final answer:
Net neutrality is the idea that all internet data should be treated equally, and the FCC implements rules to prevent internet service providers from creating paid 'fast lanes'. There is a debate whether providers should charge based on data usage and bandwidth. Net neutrality regulations are meant to ensure that larger companies cannot unfairly dominate the internet by paying for faster service.
Step-by-step explanation:
Net Neutrality Explained
Net neutrality is the principle that Internet service providers should treat all data on the Internet equally, without discriminating or charging differently based on user, content, website, platform, or application. The debate around net neutrality involves several issues, particularly whether providers, like those offering electricity and water, should be seen as common carriers and be legally prohibited from creating tiered services with "fast" and "slow" lanes.
On one hand, advocates for net neutrality argue that without such regulations, large corporations could dominate by affording the premiums for quicker service, potentially pushing smaller competitors out of the market. On the other hand, broadband network providers argue that those who demand more from the network, such as services that require significant bandwidth like video streaming, should pay more to cover the costs of infrastructure and maintenance.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted Open Internet rules on February 26, 2015, to protect net neutrality, ensuring that broadband providers cannot block, throttle, or create paid fast lanes for content. The rules are grounded in Title II of the Communications Act and Section 706 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, which establish a legal standard to prevent providers from unreasonably interfering with access to the Internet.