The FCC will be busy for the next month or so working to redefine Internet Service Providers and protect the Open Internet. However, the commission has also made time to redefine broadband--for the better.
The Federal Communication Commission has voted to redefine broadband as "Internet which is fast enough to use," according to Gizmodo. This definition requires all ISPs to guarantee download speeds of 25 megabits per second and upload speeds of 3 Mbps.
While the redefining isn't enough to make ISPs change their speeds immediately, it forces them to increase the speeds in order to keep labeling their Internet service as "broadband."
The decision helps consistency among ISPs and helps consumers more than anyone else. Certain rural areas aren't able to receive full broadband speed compared to more populated areas, despite consumers paying the same rate. This change in definition will push ISPs to improve Internet access in rural areas, and provide better service for their customers.
Gizmodo also noted that the redefinition would have some other interesting side effects:.
"The redefinition of broadband should increase competition between ISPs and cable companies as well as encourage the development of better infrastructure," the site pointed out. "The new policy could also affect the outcome of the pending Comcast-Time Warner Cable merger since the new definition means that Comcast now has fewer competitors in its broadband business. That means the Department of Justice might decide that a Mega-Comcast would look even more like a monopoly."
Ultimately, this policy change is a big deal for most users of the Internet, wherever they access the web. Not only will it help enable better speeds, but it should help promote competition and make sure users get the best web service possible.
