David Farber on Net Neutrality: Reaction to the Current "Debate"

Mar 22, 2006 | Inside: Regulation & Policies

Dave Farber was recently interviewed as part of the 37th KMB Conference, March 8, 9, &10, 2006 held at St. Petes Beach FL. Dave Farber provides the following background information and link to this video interview:

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

KMB Video Journal
Vol. 22, No. 2. (15 minutes)
The Internet And
The Neutrality Question
A Conversation With David Farber
(Watch the Video: MP4)

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