Google and universities offer tool to detect Net filtering, blocking

If you are worried that your Internet provider isn’t on the up and up with Net neutrality principles, then you should consider using a new tool meant to measure or monitor Internet regulation: the Measurement Lab (M-Lab). This system is one that helps those interested in their Internet’s details to see what exactly is gong on with their connection.

M-Lab was announced by Google, New America Foundation, which is affiliated with the Democratic Party, and a university consortium called PlanetLab Consortium. Net neutrality has long been an issue of contention. Many expect the proposed stimulus package to include a requirement that asks for the definition and enforcement of “open access” guidelines for various networks. This, the system is meant to make it easier for people to see network activity by allowing individuals to measure the Internet and to share this information.

Currently, there are three Google servers devoted to the tasks of M-Lab, and the company has promised more in the future. Any and all data that is collected via this system will reportedly be made public.

Ed Felten, director of the Center for Information Policy, has said the following about the project: “If you believe the government should take more active steps to mandate Net neutrality…it will help you gather the evidence you need.”