A note on Net Neutrality and my reaction to the current "debate"

[David Farber <dave () farber net>]

I recently did an interview on the net neutrality issue  at a conference
because I am beginning to fear that we are in danger of trying to enact
legislation designed around presumptions as to how
the Internet will evolve next.    We have seen the Internet become a
truly mass market phenomenon, reaching more than half of all American
households.  Broadband networks have been and are being deployed that
are moving us towards higher levels of speed and capability.
My concern with all of the debate and discussion I've reviewed to date
is that there is far too little solid, in depth analysis and
understanding on all sides and their implications on the future of the
Internet.

As one of those who has been involved with the Internet since its
earliest days, I do think it is getting old.  There are improvements
that can and must  be made in how the Internet handles security for
example and some applications - like video - would clearly be enhanced
by specialized services or network functionalities to make them work
better.  We don't want to inadvertently stall innovation in these areas
by imposing rules or laws the implications of which are
far from clear.   The technology, operations and management of the
Internet's functions are very complex, and we must be aware of the
likelihood of unintended consequences with respect to federal regulation
or legislation.

I spell out some of my thoughts and concerns in the video interview
below -- just 15 minutes.   I hope you will take a look at it and
seriously ponder what is happening. I would urge all to step back from
the current often emotional debate and allow some time for a
more thorough, rational look at the these issues.   The Internet's
future deserves more serious and thoughtful consideration and I intend
to devote some time to doing so.

This video interview was produced as part of the 37th KMB Conference,
March 8, 9, &10, 2006 held at St. Petes Beach FL (http://
www.kmbvideojournal.com/)

Vol. 22, No. 2.    (15 minutes)
The Internet And
The Neutrality Question
A Conversation With David Farber

http://www.kmbvideojournal.com/Wav%20Files/Volume_22_2.wmv










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