May 9, 2018 4:30 PM

A Brief History of Net Neutrality

A timeline of the back-and-forth struggle for control of the internet.

01
The term "network neutrality" was first coined in a 2003 paper, reflecting a battle that was just beginning to brew. With numerous websites adorning their pages with “red alerts” today urging people to tell their representatives to save net neutrality, here’s a look back at how we got here.
02
Early 2000s
Internet providers ban some customers from using virtual private networks (VPNs)—or even setting up their own Wi-Fi routers—helping inspire the net neutrality movement.

03
2005
The FCC fines North Carolina service provider Madison River and orders it to stop blocking phone calls over the internet— marking one of the first efforts to enforce net neutrality rules.
04
2008
The FCC orders Comcast to stop throttling BitTorrent connections on its network. Comcast denies throttling, but sues the FCC, successfully arguing that Comcast could slow down connections if it wanted to.

05
2009
Apple is caught blocking iPhone users from making Skype calls at the request of AT&T. The companies eventually relent under pressure from the FCC.
06
2015
The FCC passes its sweeping net neutrality order, preventing the blocking or prioritizing of any internet traffic.

07
2017
But just two years later, the FCC votes to jettison its previous order, freeing broadband providers to block or throttle content as they see fit.

Klint Finley is a contributing writer for WIRED covering tech policy, software development, cloud computing, and more. ... Read More

Contributor

TopicsAMP Stories

The WIRED Guide to Net Neutrality

ISPs shouldn't be able to block some sorts of data and prioritize others—here's what to know about the struggle to treat information on the internet the same.

Klint Finley

'Red Alert' Is a Last-Ditch Effort to Save Net Neutrality

On Wednesday, sites including Etsy and Reddit will urge users to support a vote to preserve net neutrality rules.

Klint Finley

As Protection Ends, Here’s One Way to Test for Net Neutrality

Some states plan to uphold net neutrality principles. How will they know if telecom companies are obeying their own promises?

Klint Finley

Here's How Ending Net Neutrality Will Change the Internet

The FCC move to eliminate net-neutrality rules opens the door to preferential deals for some content providers, closed doors for others.

Klint Finley

Senate Democrats Have a Plan to Save Net Neutrality

Opinion: Congress can prevent the FCC from ending net neutrality, argues senator Chuck Schumer.

Charles E. Schumer

Top Maytag Promo Codes: 15% Off

Upgrade your home for less with these verified Maytag discount codes, military savings, and limited-time closeout offers on washers, dryers, and more.

Matthew Korfhage

Groupon Promo Codes: 60% Off in 2026

Unlock up to 60% off, 40% off packages, and 20% off with top Groupon coupon codes. Explore coupons to save extra on travel getaways, holiday gifts, spa days, and event tickets.

Molly Higgins

Top Dell Coupon Codes: 20% Off for September 2026

Get 20% off with verified Dell promo code, plus today’s coupons for up to $600 off laptops, Alienware monitors, and all things tech.

Scott Gilbertson

Top Herman Miller Promo Codes: Save Up to 40% Off

Whether you’re looking for a Herman Miller promo code or discounts in their sale, here is how to save on the world's best ergonomic office furniture in September 2026.

Nena Farrell

Altra Running Promo Codes and Deals September 2026

Score big savings on Altra Running shoes with up to 50% off sale styles, 20% off select models, 10% off your first order when you sign up, plus free standard delivery on every purchase.

Boutayna Chokrane