BitTorrent has always been a staunch supporter of net neutrality.  If you are not familiar with the principle, it’s an idea that internet service providers should not discriminate based on user, content, website, application, IP address, device, protocol, and so on.  As an example, ISPs shouldn’t be able to intentionally block a Web site.  Or, they shouldn’t be able to restrict access to a software application.

Keeping the internet free and open ensures ISPs cannot dictate which products or services you consume.  It ensures corporate entities cannot censor the internet.  Think about all the organizations that create innovative products and services to garner your attention.  If ISPs have the ability to control the ecosystem, it could kill innovation and unfairly limit the mix of products, services and information available to us.

In April of 2017, the FCC announced plans to roll back net neutrality.  This was followed through upon with the Restoring Internet Freedom Order, which was approved by the FCC in December of 2017.  It comes into effect on June 11, 2018.  Starting that day, net neutrality ends.

In anticipation of the rollback going into effect, BitTorrent and others supported efforts to raise awareness and urged millions to raise their voice and contact their Congress members.  Today, the Senate heard those voices and voted to block the FCC’s repeal.  It’s a short-term win, but now the House of Representatives needs to weigh in and do the same.

We will continue our efforts, and we encourage all who believe in net neutrality to contact your House members now to make your voice heard.  You can make a difference!