The US has repealed landmark 2015 rules aimed at ensuring a free and open internet.
The Federal Communications Commission has voted three to two to overturn net neutrality rules that barred broadband providers from blocking or slowing access to content, or allowing websites to pay for "fast lanes" to get their content more quickly to consumers.
The move has set up a court fight - because the decision could recast the digital landscape.
Republicans say the internet will operate essentially the same without what they see as heavy-handed government rules.
While Democrats say the repeal will allow internet providers to change how people access content.
Net neutrality advocates have planned a legal challenge aimed at preserving the rules.
Streaming giants Netflix tweeted their disappointment about the decision, saying they stand with innovators.
We’re disappointed in the decision to gut #NetNeutrality protections that ushered in an unprecedented era of innovation, creativity & civic engagement. This is the beginning of a longer legal battle. Netflix stands w/ innovators, large & small, to oppose this misguided FCC order.
— Netflix US (@netflix) December 14, 2017
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