Embracing the open internet and why it matters

Have you heard of the term “Open Internet,” but have no idea what it means or WHY it’s essential? Not only should you be able to do what you love at incredible speeds on our 100% direct fiber internet, but you should also know why doing what you love matters using open internet. What you do matters, so let’s make sure you have the best experience possible!

First things first, let’s start with the age-old question—what is open internet, and what does it mean?!

Open Internet fosters free communication, innovation, and equality in the digital space. It is the concept that the internet should remain an open, decentralized network that is accessible to all users without restrictions. Essentially, users have the freedom to access, share, and create content without interference from internet service providers (like us!). 

Another key component to open internet is net neutrality. This is the idea that all data on the internet should be treated equally by ISPs. This means ISPs cannot prioritize or block specific content, websites or platforms. Whether streaming your favorite movie, reading a blog, or shopping online, or maybe even doom-scrolling your favorite social platform, the open internet allows users to freely choose the services and content they want to access and explore without barriers or extra fees imposed by ISPs.

Who benefits from the open internet?

Although this concept is beneficial to all, it’s particularly important for small businesses, startups, creators, and innovators, as well as those who may reside in underserved communities, and for many reasons:

1. Startups and small businesses can reach global audiences without needing to navigate monopolistic structures or pay for preferential treatment.
   
   
2. Creators, artists, innovators, and developers benefit from the open internet by having the freedom to distribute their work without needing to go through traditional channels. Platforms like YouTube, Etsy, Instagram, and TikTok, rely on the open internet to function as ecosystems where creators can flourish.
   
   
3. Marginalized and underserved communities have a better chance of making their voices heard, advocating for their rights, and accessing educational and economic opportunities through the open internet.

On the flipside, what happens WITHOUT an Open Internet and net neutrality?

If the internet is no longer open and the concept of net neutrality does not exist, there are several negative consequences which could arise, including, but are not limited to:

1. Decreased Competition and Innovation: ISPs could charge companies for better access or faster speeds, meaning that your favorite smaller businesses and startups might not be able to afford to compete with their competition. This would stifle innovation, and the internet could become dominated by a few large companies that can pay for premium service.
   
   
2. Worsening the Digital Divide: Without net neutrality, ISPs could offer "tiered" services where certain websites or services cost extra, limiting access to only those who can afford it. 

This is also a great time to shamelessly plug that with Ting, we offer zero contracts, no hidden fees, and no bills that creep up over time. The price you see is the price you pay. Okay, let’s get back to open internet and net neutrality.

If net neutrality didn’t exist, this would create an unfair and class-based internet, where people with more money can access more content, leaving lower-income users at a disadvantage. Those who can afford to pay for premium services would have access to faster, better-quality internet, while low-income users might be stuck with slower speeds and limited access to content. This could also further restrict access to educational resources, job opportunities, and other critical services that rely on open, affordable internet access.

1. Loss of Privacy and Security: Without openness, ISPs and governments could have more control over user data, potentially leading to privacy violations and increased surveillance. The closed internet could enable the tracking of personal data without the users’ consent, creating a less secure and private online environment.

Preserving the Open Internet is crucial for ensuring that the digital world remains a space of opportunity for all, not just a privileged few. It promotes free expression, innovation, competition, and equal access to information. At Ting, we are proud to operate under our commitment to honest, fair, and unrestricted fast-fiber internet access.  Without it, we risk a future where access to information and opportunity is gated, controlled, and limited, reducing the benefits that the internet can provide to individuals, businesses, and society as a whole.