Abstract

GENDLER, Martín. From Net Neutrality to 5G. Changes in the power dynamics of the Internet ecosystem. Inmediac. Comun [online]. 2024, vol.19, n.1, pp.40-51.  Epub June 01, 2024. ISSN 1510-5091.  https://doi.org/10.18861/ic.2024.19.1.3528.

The article aims to carry out a genealogy of two of the main discussion processes and exercises of knowledge-power among the constituent actors of the Internet, who try to modulate its operation: we refer, on the one hand, to the Net Neutrality case and, on the other hand, to the development of 5G. The analysis focuses on the strategies, alliances, rivalries and -practical and discursive- strategical exercises deployed by these main actors (Internet Service Providers, Service and Content Providers, non-governmental organizations, academics and State Agencies), to configure and modify the scenario and the power relations between them; specifically, to adapt the ecosystem and the technicality of the Internet based on their own interests. The article presents the immediate background of the case of Net Neutrality and analyzes the discussions that took place throughout the first two decades of the 21st century. Then, the spotlight is focused on the debates on the installation and deployment of 5G, studying mainly on the development of Network Slicing, which is capable of generating strong changes in the existing panorama and raising new questions within the framework of the power dynamics that they traverse the Internet ecosystem.

Keywords : Internet; Net Neutrality; 5G; power dynamics; genealogy.

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