Net Neutrality, Content Providers and Blockchain

Net neutrality is the idea that internet service providers should not have control over the content internet users access.

Net neutrality rules, instituted in 2015, ensure that ISPs can't charge higher fees or decrease connection speeds for specific websites, or block legal content.

Net neutrality activists argue that overturning net neutrality rules could allow ISPs to block or throttle content that is not aligned with their economic or political interests.

WIRED journalist Klint Finley argues that while influential content providers such as Netflix can afford to subsidize their customers' access, small and independent producers who lack the resources to sponsor data usage would struggle without net neutrality.

Video content providers play a massive role in the net neutrality fight because they require so much internet bandwidth.

Many blockchain proponents are alarmed by the possible loss of net neutrality.

Some supporters believe that the net neutrality fight's high profile may introduce more mainstream users to adopt blockchain-based technologies.

Power on the internet, in short, is concentrated even with net neutrality.

The consequences blockchain might experience due to net neutrality's repeal are yet to be seen, but it appears unlikely that consumers will walk away from services that promise more reliable and cost-effective access to content, even if net neutrality actions get in the way.

The U.S. Senate recently passed a resolution restoring the 2015 net neutrality rules.