Netherlands becomes second country to make net neutrality a law

The Dutch Parliament on Wednesday passed a law that prohibits Internet service providers from slowing down any kind of Internet traffic unless it’s to ease congestion, preserve security, or block spam.

The practice of treating all Internet traffic evenly-whether it’s text, e-mail, audio, or video-is commonly referred to as net neutrality. This move makes the Netherlands the second country in the world to put net neutrality into law, afterwards Chile.

The law as well bans Web advertisers from leaving cookies in a user’s browser without first getting his or her consent. It will have a strong impact on mobile data usage as carriers will no longer be able to charge clients extra to use Skype or other VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) apps to make phone calls. T-Mobile, which had blocked all VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) apps, will now have to allow them on its network.

Freelance journalist

Sean Ludwig is a freelance journalist and innovation consultant. He runs Ludwig Social Solutions and has written for PCMag, LAPTOP Magazine, Computer Shopper, Fast Company, and Seattle Weekly. He specializes in mobile tech and social media. Follow him on Twitter at @seanludwig.