ARCEP outlines net neutrality recommendations

French communications regulator ARCEP has published 10 recommendations to ensure network neutrality, following a study launched a year ago and a subsequent public consultation.

According to ARCEP, internet users should be free to send and receive the content they choose and use services and applications that they choose provided these cause no harm to the network. They should be able to access material with a quality of service that is adequate, transparent and non-discriminatory.

However, traffic management by ISPs can be allowed provided that it is based on criteria of relevance, proportionality, efficiency, non-discrimination and transparency.

ARCEP has also recommended that the term “unlimited” should not be used in connection with “reasonable usage” restrictions.
ARCEP said that “more prescriptive” measures could be taken to protect net neutrality if necessary.