Net neutrality regulations are intended to ensure that the internet remains open and that all users have equal access to online content, services, and applications.The rules protect users' rights to access information, share content, and use services of their choice. They also promote fair competition and innovation on the internet.

What does net neutrality mean?

When you purchase internet access services, you should be able to:

• access the content and information of your choice,

• use the applications and services of your choice,

• share content and information with others,

• offer content, applications, and services on the internet.

Telecommunications providers may generally not block, slow down, or discriminate against internet traffic based on the content, service, or application being used.

When are exceptions allowed?

In certain situations, telecommunications providers may apply traffic management measures. This may be necessary to:

• comply with laws or regulatory requirements,

• ensure the security and stability of communications networks,

• respond to temporary or exceptional network congestion.

Such measures must be necessary, proportionate, and non-discriminatory.

Who is protected?

The rules apply to all internet end users, including both individuals and businesses.They also protect businesses and service providers that distribute content or offer services online. The goal is to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to reach users.

What services are covered by the rules?

The rules primarily apply to public internet access services.Users have the right to access almost the entire internet, regardless of the device or technology used to connect, such as fibre broadband, mobile networks, computers, tablets, or smartphones.Certain specialised electronic communications services may receive different treatment where necessary for their functionality. However, these services must not reduce the quality of general internet access.

Information users are entitled to receive

Telecommunications providers must provide clear and accessible information about their internet access services.Users are entitled to information about, among other things:

• service speed and quality,

• possible data caps or other restrictions,

• traffic management measures that may affect the service,

• how other services may affect internet access,

• their rights under the law and their service agreement.

The information should be easy to understand and enable users to compare service offerings.

The role of the Icelandic Telecommunications Authority

The Icelandic Telecommunications Authority oversees the implementation of net neutrality rules in Iceland.The Authority:

• monitors compliance by telecommunications providers,

• supervises the information provided to users,

• assesses whether traffic management measures comply with the rules,

• receives tips and complaints,

• conducts reviews and analyses,

• cooperates with European regulatory authorities to ensure consistent implementation of the rules.

The role of BEREC

BEREC (the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications) is a cooperation platform for telecommunications regulators across Europe.The organisation publishes guidelines that support consistent interpretation and implementation of net neutrality rules. These guidelines are useful for both regulators and telecommunications providers.

Objectives of the rules

Net neutrality rules are designed to ensure:

• an open internet for everyone,

• equal treatment of internet traffic,

• clear information for users,

• fair competition,

• continued innovation in digital services.

This allows users to decide for themselves which content, services, and applications they use on the internet.