Why you should support independent Internet Service Providers
Supporting
independent Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in Canada holds several crucial
implications for consumers, competition, innovation, and the overall health of
the telecommunications industry. Here are some reasons why you should support
independent ISPs when you can:
Promoting Competition: Independent ISPs introduce competition into the telecommunications market, which is essential for driving innovation, improving service quality, and offering consumers more choices. Competition encourages larger ISPs such as Bell, Telus, Rogers, Cogeco, and Videotron to innovate and improve their services while also keeping prices in check. As we have mentioned before in one of our older blogs, the competition for ISPs is really dire, as more and more independent ISPs are being bought by the big guys.
- Consumer
Choice: Independent ISPs such as CanNet, often offer
alternative service models, pricing structures, and customer service
experiences compared to larger incumbents. By supporting independent ISPs,
consumers gain access to a diverse range of Internet plans tailored to
their specific needs and preferences. Take a look at CanNet’s wide variety
of internet plans
for people in Canada.
- Fostering
Innovation: Independent ISPs frequently lead the way in
deploying new technologies, exploring innovative business models, and
experimenting with novel service offerings. Their agility and flexibility
allow them to adapt more quickly to emerging trends and consumer demands,
fostering a culture of innovation within the telecommunications industry.
- Protecting
Net Neutrality: Independent ISPs often
champion principles of net neutrality, ensuring that all Internet traffic
is treated equally without discrimination or preferential treatment. By
supporting independent ISPs, consumers help uphold the principles of an
open and free Internet where content providers and users have equal access
and opportunities.
- Ensuring
Fair Pricing and Terms: Competition from independent
ISPs puts pressure on larger incumbents to offer fair pricing and terms
for Internet services. By providing consumers with alternative options,
independent ISPs help ensure that pricing remains competitive and that
consumers will receive value for their money. You might already know that
internet prices in Canada are among the highest on this planet. Even
though the CRTC has mandated to
lower some of the wholesale rates, due to unfair competition and
lobbying by the big guys they are still out-pricing independent ISPs with
unfair wholesale rates by undermining the prices by offering sly
promotions here and there.
- Expanding
Broadband Access: Independent ISPs play a
critical role in expanding broadband access to underserved and remote
areas where larger incumbents may be less inclined to invest in
infrastructure. By leveraging innovative technologies and business models,
independent ISPs help bridge the digital divide and ensure that all
Canadians have access to high-quality Internet services.
- Supporting
Local Economies: Many independent ISPs are
locally owned and operated, contributing to the economic vitality of their
communities. By supporting independent ISPs, consumers help sustain local
businesses, create jobs, and foster economic growth in their regions.
- Advocating
for Consumer Rights: Independent ISPs often
advocate for consumer rights, privacy protections, and regulatory policies
that promote a fair and competitive telecommunications market. By
supporting independent ISPs, consumers align themselves with organizations
that prioritize their interests and work to ensure that their voices are
heard in policy discussions and regulatory proceedings.
In summary,
supporting independent ISPs in Canada is essential for promoting competition,
fostering innovation, protecting consumer rights, and expanding broadband
access. By choosing independent ISPs as their service providers, consumers can
help build a more vibrant, diverse, and equitable telecommunications ecosystem
that benefits everyone.