Roskomnadzor proposes to abolish network neutrality in 5G networks

Mobile communication is gradually becoming the main way to access the Internet , so Russian operators are making a big bet on the introduction of fifth-generation cellular networks (5G). They allow you to significantly increase traffic and expand the range of services provided, among which will be critical, such as telemedicine.

Therefore, Roskomnadzor proposes to abolish the principle of network neutrality for fifth-generation networks, giving priority to critical services where the quality of communication must meet the specified parameters.

The 5G standard has not yet been developed . At present, various mobile network operators in many parts of the world are testing individual elements of the 5G network, as well as conducting laboratory tests. The first part of the Release-15 specifications is scheduled for completion by March 2019 to enable operators to start preparing for the commercial launch of the service. The second part of Release-16 will be completed by March 2020 - and sent to the International Telecommunication Union for approval as a standard.
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The quality of communication services is not regulated by regulation. Operators have long been opposed to the principle of net neutrality being firmly enshrined in legislation. In August, the LTE Union, uniting the big four of mobile operators, sent a letter to the government warning that it was impossible to forbid operators to speed up or slow down Internet access to resources. The principle of network neutrality contradicts the logic of the development of communication networks and new technologies, the letter said.

It is now being discussed what parameters of the quality of communication should be fixed by regulation, said Denis Paltsin, head of the department for control and supervision in the sphere of communications of Roskomnadzor.

Within five years, the costs of Russian operators for the introduction of 5G will amount to approximately 300 billion rubles, according to the estimates of the operating director of MegaFon Anna Serebryanikova. 5G networks can control smart and unmanned vehicles, provide telemedicine services, operate IoT devices, equipment at assembly plants (automated factories), high-speed trains, and the infrastructure of smart cities. The program "Digital Economy" involves the deployment of 5G networks in all cities with a population of more than 20 million by Russia in 2022.