The FCC has ruled on net neutrality and offered up a compromise solution: ISPs can’t throttle fixed line computer users based on what kind of content they’re accessing, but wireless providers can.

The measure, approved by a 3-2 vote, will force all providers to detail how they are managing traffic. Wireless providers will not be able to block simple websites or apps that compete with their business, a coup for services like Skype.

“The FCC is moving the ball forward to protect consumers who access the Internet through wireline connections,” said Parul P. Desai, policy counsel for Consumers Union, publishers of Consumerist. But, CU “would prefer that the Commission provide stronger protections for wireless Internet users…as more Americans use smartphones and other wireless devices to surf the web.”

F.C.C. Approves Net Rules and Braces for Fight [mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes]
FCC Expected to Pass Net Neutrality Rules: Statements by Consumers Union, Consumer Federation of America [Consumers Union]
FCC Passes Compromise Net Neutrality Rules [WIRED]

Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.