Google wants "fast track" for services

 

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By Stuart Turton and Reuters

Posted on 15 Dec 2008 at 08:59

Google has approached ISPs with a proposal to create a "fast lane" for its own content, a shock reverse on its traditional defence of net neutrality.

The reports, courtesy of the Wall Street Journal, suggest the web giant is already in talks with one US provider, though the company has been reluctant to forge a deal because of concerns it might violate Federal Communications Commission guidelines on network neutrality.

Network neutrality is meant to ensure the cable and phone companies that operate the data pipelines treat all traffic the same. However, providers have long argued that content providers should contribute to network costs.

Google's proposal aims to do just that. The scheme, called OpenEdge, would allow Google to pay providers to place servers directly within their network, meaning its pages and service would spring to life much faster than those of its rivals.

The Wall Street Journal claims that when asked about OpenEdge, Google said other companies could strike similar deals if they desired.