Internet search giant Google, rumored to be working on developing its own private Internet network, warned broadband providers like AT&T and Comcast that the variety of Web sites could shrink if ISPs
start charging companies for premium access to high-speed networks. Meanwhile, the Bell companies promised members of the Senate Commerce Committee that they have no plans to block Internet services.
Congress is currently considering legislation to guarantee consumers open access to the World Wide Web. In particular, AT&T and BellSouth Corp. have suggested charging the likes of Google, Yahoo and
Vonage for delivering content at high-speeds over their networks. The phone companies complain they're investing billions in upgrading their broadband networks while other companies are benefiting
unfairly. As the president of the United States Telecom Association said, "If you're going to expand these networks, how are you going to earn a return on that investment?" Many worry that such ire
from broadband ISPs could lead them to block access to certain Web sites. For example, a tiered system would allow an ISP to give priority to Yahoo over Google, which could leave consumers with long
wait times to access Google's services. Worryingly, certain members of Congress vacillate as to the viability of this, but I can't imagine a majority of consumers would support something like this. As
Bill Gates said, it's impossible to censor the Web; it's equally unlikely the market would allow ISPs to block or limit Internet access.
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