What is the Computer Term "Net Neutrality"?

Network neutrality (equivalently "net neutrality", "internet neutrality" or "NN") refers to a principle applied to residential broadband networks which provide Internet access, telephone service, and television programming. Precise definitions vary, but a broadband network free of arbitrary restrictions on the kinds of equipment attached and the modes of communication allowed would be considered neutral by most advocates, provided it met additional tests relating to the degradation of various communication streams by others. Arguably, no network is completely neutral, hence neutrality represents an ideal condition toward which networks and their operators may strive
The term was coined in European telecommunications law around 2003[citation needed] and imported to the US as the FCC commenced consideration of re-classifying residential DSL as an Information Service, consistent with Cable Internet. Advocates didn't dispute consistent regulation, but believed that both should be regulated according to the more strict Telecommunications Service guidelines, which were traditional for services provided by telephone companies

Reference: Network neutrality. (2007, March 1). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 12:03, March 1, 2007

<What is Net Neutrality?>
Network neutrality is the principle that Internet users should be in control of what content they view and what applications they use on the Internet. The Internet has operated according to this neutrality principle since its earliest days. Indeed, it is this neutrality that has allowed many companies, including Google, to launch, grow, and innovate. Fundamentally, net neutrality is about equal access to the Internet. In our view, the broadband carriers should not be permitted to use their market power to discriminate against competing applications or content. Just as telephone companies are not permitted to tell consumers who they can call or what they can say, broadband carriers should not be allowed to use their market power to control activity online. Today, the neutrality of the Internet is at stake as the broadband carriers want Congress's permission to determine what content gets to you first and fastest. Put simply, this would fundamentally alter the openness of the Internet.

Reference: Google Help Center