In a proposal to the FCC, Google and Verizon joined forces to unveil their own broadband infrastructure. The new proposal by the two companies may change how the backbone of the internet may be used.
Google and Verizon have announced a policy framework change for the internet. The proposal provides internet or wireless users content or faster connections if they are willing to pay for it.
Several years ago, Google co-founder Sergey Brin lobbied in Congress for support of net neutrality. Net neutrality is a guarantee that even the smallest website can still receive visitors. For example, net neutrality would allow a family owned general store to receive visitors on their website even though Wal-Mart is statistically more popular.
It is not law in the United States, but is closely observed. Net neutrality applies to the public internet. Google was an original proponent for net neutrality. This recent proposal shows Google’s desire to move in another direction.
FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski this statement, “Any outcome, any deal that doesn’t preserve the freedom and openness of the Internet for consumers and entrepreneurs will be unacceptable.” She assured to maintain the integrity of the internet.
The FCC quickly shot down the first proposal. The Federal Communications Commission officials decided it would unfairly favor larger companies who were financially capable of paying for higher speeds.
The new proposal is for a three-tiered internet. Each tier is a lane moving at a different speed. If a company wants their site to load faster, they would pay to move to a faster lane.
In a conference call, Google CEO Google said they would never pay for faster access and that Google will remain on the public internet. The deal between Google and Verizon is just a proposal for a policy change and not a deal between the two companies.