Fav-Icon
The Impact of VPNs on Net Neutrality and Internet Freedom

The Impact of VPNs on Net Neutrality and Internet Freedom

Software

The repeal of net neutrality by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) is causing quite a stir within the Internet community. People and businesses are expressing their frustration or celebrating the decision. However, in the midst of all this chaos, there isn’t much information available on what an average Internet user can do in response to this outcome. That’s why we created this guide – to give you important information about the impact of net neutrality’s repeal and suggest actions you can take now that it’s gone.

What is Net Neutrality?

Net neutrality is the principle that prevents Internet service providers (ISPs) from discriminating against or manipulating online traffic. Before the rise of high-speed Internet, the regulations imposed on ISPs were relatively straightforward. But in 2015, the FCC took proactive steps by classifying broadband as a Title II service to guarantee consistent speed and access for all content and connections. Net neutrality meant that legally, ISPs were not allowed to prioritize certain content or websites over others.

What Does the Abolition of Net Neutrality Mean to You?

#1 Access

Without net neutrality, providers would have complete control over which websites or applications their customers can access. They may prioritize certain content they consider valuable or deem other content a threat. Consequently, users might additional face charges for using their preferred services or be limited to accessing content. This is not necessarily some kind of dangerous content, like instructions for building bombs. This may be dictated by their provider’s interests and business relationships. This could have a disproportionate impact on marginalized netizens who already face connectivity challenges.

#2 Privacy

The repeal of net neutrality raises valid concerns about privacy. When ISPs gain more control over Internet traffic, they also gain access to users’ browsing data. A recent announcement from the FCC and FTC mentioned a plan to collaborate in “policing the internet”, but without genuine authority to enforce rules. Moreover, the FCC has previously eliminated online privacy protections, allowing ISPs to collect data without obtaining consent.

#3 Speed

Before the repeal, providers were widely known for slowing down Internet speeds based on a user’s online activities, even though it was against the rules. It is hardly surprising that after the deregulation, this practice will become widespread. Internet speed reduction can be applied for any reason and this is a reality.

Providers have the freedom to create “fast lanes” where they can charge extra for faster speeds. This leaves consumers and businesses in a difficult situation, as they have to choose between paying more or dealing with sluggish internet connections.

Why is VPN useful?

#1 Access

With a VPN, you can bypass location-based censorship. More precisely, the user can easily access a free and open Internet. The provider simply cannot do anything about it, because it knows nothing about your actions on the network. All data is encrypted and transmitted to a third-party VPN server. To put it simply, you can change location on iPhone and get complete internet freedom. With a VPN solution, you can also bypass busy networks and enjoy faster speeds and better performance overall.

#2 Privacy

VPNs protect your privacy by preventing your Internet Service Provider (ISP) from monitoring your online activities. In simple words, the provider will not be able to find out what data you are transmitting and where exactly they are going. If the provider has no data about you, then there is nothing to sell. This also means that the ISP will not have compromising information on you, which can come up in the event of litigation or hacker attacks on the provider.

#3 Speed

VeePN is actually one of the most powerful VPN solutions out there! It works by encrypting your Internet connection, so your Internet Service Provider (ISP) won’t be able to see what you’re doing online. This means they can’t slow down your connection based on your online activities, making it difficult for them to throttle you.

Conclusion

VPNs offer the only way to safeguard your data and enjoy unrestricted internet access. With VeePN’s advanced encryption technology, you can feel confident that your online privacy is protected, even with the repeal of net neutrality. Plus, it’s lightning-fast speeds and top-notch performance ensure seamless and private browsing on the open web.

Fav-Icon
Santos Cruickshank

Santos Cruickshank

With years of software development experience, Santos Cruickshank has a passion for exploring PC software and mobile apps. A former lead developer at Slack in 2017, he now freelances while educating others about software development and usage through his writing.