Internet Network Core No “Dumb Pipe,” Report
In the U.S., the old net neutrality debate has grown more intense at the dawn of proposed regulation by the Federal Communications Committee (FCC).
As both sides have taken their positions, a new report sheds light on the nature of the Internet network core. Often described as a “dump pipe,” the review argues that the network we have become so dependent of is actually quite intelligent.
Many advocates of strict net neutrality regulation in the United States argue that the Internet has always been a “dumb pipe” and that Congress should require that it remains so.
But a new report by think tank ITIF Research Fellow Richard Bennett reviews the historical development of the Internet architecture and finds that contrary to such claims, an extraordinarily high degree of intelligence is embedded in the network core.
The review could help both engineers and policy makers separate the essentials from the incidentals, identify challenges to continued evolution, and develop appropriate policy frameworks.
Read more on the author’s web site, download the report or watch the presentation of the report on the ITIF web site.
Source: Broadbandpolitics.com, ITIF
See also:“Preserving a Free and Open Internet: A Platform for Innovation, Opportunity, and Prosperity” FCC Chairman Genachowski’s address at The Brookings Institution.
See also: “Verizon, AT&T: Net neutrality not OK for wireless”
Also noteworthy (opinionated): “Washington Post: Net Neutrality Kills Puppies”
