High speed internet service providers are coming under increasing scrutiny because of their business practices in managing the terms of use of their networks. One key issue is whether they should be allowed to charge content providers for a higher quality of service to support certain applications like video games. A related issue is whether network managers should have the discretion to exclude or degrade specific applications used by customers to improve network performance. These issues arise not only in wireline networks, such as DSL and cable, but also in wireless networks, such as those used to support smart phones. The Federal Communications Commission has released a policy statement promoting open access to the Internet. The policy makes an exception for “reasonable” network management but does not define what is meant by reasonable. Speakers at this conference will examine the economic costs and benefits of imposing regulatory constraints on the management of high speed internet networks.
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