The Open Web is Under Attack: What To Do (Part 2)

Following up to yesterday’s post, here is what I think folks should do about the threat of platform lock-in at the application/content layer.   First, recognize that this is directly related to net neutrality.  The ability of existing platforms and content owners to try to force the web back into walled gardens is limited by the ability of entrepreneurs to start open competitors and reach people directly and on a level playing field.   Second, start voting with your mouse.  At the moment we have enough variety on the web in most categories that if any one provider is over-reaching, you have alternatives available.  For instance, for political coverage you can head over to a site such as politico.com that has been built from the ground up for the web, including an extensive set of RSS feeds.  Third, support an independent web browser.  Much as I like Chrome and its speed, I believe that a strong and healthy Mozilla Foundation that pushes Firefox forward will keep everyone honest.  Other than that, we need to all watch out carefully for what is happening at the content and application layer, as eventually we may need to extend the net neutrality concept in that direction (for instance, by ensuring that endusers can change content inside the browser as they see fit, e.g. via plugins).