Net neutrality is the principle that Internet service providers (ISPs) must treat all Internet communications equally, without discrimination or preferential treatment based on content, website, platform, application, or user
. This means ISPs should provide consistent access speeds and quality to all online content and services, whether it's streaming video, browsing websites, or using apps, without blocking, throttling, or prioritizing certain traffic for commercial advantage
. The concept ensures that users can freely access any lawful content or service they choose, and content providers compete on a level playing field without needing to pay ISPs for faster delivery or better visibility
. Net neutrality supports freedom of speech, innovation, competition, and democratic participation by preventing ISPs from controlling or filtering what users see online
. While widely supported for maintaining an open and fair internet, net neutrality is controversial. Opponents argue it can reduce investment in network infrastructure, impose regulatory burdens, and limit ISPs' ability to manage network traffic efficiently
. In the U.S., net neutrality protections have fluctuated, with strong rules established in 2015 but weakened by regulatory changes in 2017, leading some states like California to enact their own laws
. In summary, net neutrality is about keeping the internet open and equal, ensuring ISPs treat all data on their networks the same way, without discrimination or favoritism
