In the past few weeks, there has been a lot of conversation revolving around the recent plan to rid of Net Neutrality. As I said to myself upon hearing the news, what even is Net Neutrality? If you're asking yourself the same question, here is what you need to know:

Net Neutrality is what makes the internet "the internet". When you open up Safari, Internet Explorer, Firefox, etc., you are free to search the web as you wish. Net Neutrality is what has been put in place to protect that right as well as the right to communicate openly online without any restrictions. Think of it this way: When you make a phone call, you can call whoever you want. You aren't restricted from calling anyone. You are free to communicate with whomever you decide. The same is true of the internet. Or, I should say, was.

December 14, 2017- The FCC voted to repeal Net Neutrality

People all across the United States went into a panic. What does this mean? Without Net Neutrality, can I still use the internet in the way that I always have?

Here is what will happen: Large companies such as Verizon or AT&T will have the power to charge higher rates to content companies to show their content online. The providers who cannot afford to pay the increased prices set by these big companies will not make as much money and won't be able to compete with companies that can, or are willing to, pay the prices. What this means for us individuals is that we will lose access to the content that those companies can no longer afford. We will be more limited in what we can see and access. Net Neutrality is especially important for small businesses. The open internet is what gives start-up businesses the opportunity to start websites, advertise their products, and being to make a name for themselves. The prices that will potentially be set most likely won't be attainable for them.

Here is what you can do: Many individuals, as well as some businesses, have begun to petition against the repeal made by the FCC. Contact your local representatives, send in letters to the President. Do what you can to prevent the repeal of Net Neutrality from affecting our country.