The FCC’s Net Neutrality Rules Are Officially Repealed Today. Here’s What That Really Means.

Monday marks the official end of the federal government's net neutrality rules, the Obama-era regulations that said Internet providers can't block or slow down websites or prioritize their content over others'. It's a turning point for Internet policy and the Web as a whole, as broadband providers will enjoy additional freedom to seek new ways of making money in a rapidly changing market. With the rules coming off the books, how is your Internet experience likely to change? Here's what you need to know.

What's net neutrality, again?

Net neutrality is an idea about equal access to Internet content. Under its principles, Internet providers shouldn't interfere with your ability to reach the websites, apps or services of your choice. If you're a fan of Netflix, for example, net neutrality holds that you should be able to watch its shows without running into impediments your ISP, or Internet service provider, puts up that are designed to push you toward a competing service, such as Hulu.

Many supporters of net neutrality also interpret the concept to mean that broadband companies shouldn't offer online companies "fast lanes," or faster delivery to Internet users' devices, particularly if it involves extra fees the websites must pay for the special treatment. That tactic, which experts call "paid prioritization," runs the risk of creating an uneven playing field where big, dominant Internet companies can afford the fast lanes while start-ups or small businesses get left behind, net neutrality activists say.