Networks, the Internet, and Cloud Computing

Antitrust Provides a More Reasonable Regulatory Framework than Net Neutrality

In 2015, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) imposed network neutrality rules on Internet Service Providers (ISPs). The rules depressed investment and harmed consumers. In 2017, the FCC started a proceeding to end net neutrality regulation.

Law, Social Welfare, and Net Neutrality

Net neutrality rules bar broadband carriers from charging different prices to different Internet users, but this would mean that ordinary consumers are paying more for Internet service so that firms like Netflix can pay less.

Antitrust via Rulemaking: Competition Catalysts

Some observers note a decline in competition in American industry; fewer new firms are entering the market, and markets are becoming more concentrated. Federal and state agencies can devise regulations to catalyze competition.

T-Mobile’s Binge On Violates Key Net Neutrality Principles

T-Mobile’s “Binge On” plan allows customers to stream some video providers without using up their data plan cap. The FCC will assess whether the plan violates net neutrality rules. “Binge On” favors some providers and services over others, limiting choice, innovation, and competition.

Pipelines, Platforms, and the New Rules of Strategy

Many businesses are “pipelines” that channel goods or services to consumers. Today, pipelines face competition from a new business model, the platform. Platforms provide opportunities for consumers and producers to interact, just as Uber connects drivers and passengers.

Reflecting on the 1996 Act

The 1996 Telecommunications Act was intended to open communications markets to competition. Legislators did not foresee the role that the Internet and wireless service would play in increasing competition; instead, they emphasized the importance of local telephone networks.

Network Neutrality and Quality of Service: What a Non-Discrimination Rule Should Look Like

Net neutrality rules stop Internet Service Providers (ISPs) from blocking online content; nondiscrimination rules limit interference short of blocking. Nondiscrimination rules should ban discrimination against specific applications and broad categories of applications.

Unlocking Spectrum Value through Improved Allocation, Assignment, and Adjudication of Spectrum Rights

Future demand for wireless services will be hard to satisfy, as little unused spectrum remains. Wireless services must use spectrum more intensively. Reform is needed to facilitate intensive use, freeing wireless firms to negotiate deals with neighbors and resolve disputes.

The Case for Rebooting the Network Neutrality Debate

In the United States, the public supports network neutrality, the principle that Internet Service Providers (ISPs) should not control online content and services. Allowing ISPs to block startups discourages investment. Europe adopted neutrality rules when ISPs began to stifle innovation.

Does Service Bundling Reduce Churn?

This study considers whether firms that sell telecommunications services as a bundle find it easier to retain customers. The data shows that bundling does reduce “churn” for pay television, broadband, and telephone service.