The Two-Tier Internet: Fighting for Control of the Web’s Future

Profit margins have shrunk for internet providers. Attracted by low prices and rapid growth, consumers rely on cloud computing, which uses central servers for storage of treasured documents – yet few understand internet technology or long-term maintenance needs. A recent release from Google and Verizon recommended regulations, calling “for governments to leave it up to the market to determine whether telecommunications companies should be allowed to charge an additional fee for certain data-intensive services – especially if customers want speedy access,” reports Spiegel.com. Obscure posts about pets or petty political gripes now travel as quickly as medical or power-grid data. Without upgrades, the system will experience disruptions as the volume of posts grows exponentially. Resenting the loss of traditional phone and other business markets, telecommunications firms balk at upgrades without compensation. Governments and consumers cannot take low costs or equal access for granted – and should invest time in understanding the technology and the direction it should go. – YaleGlobal