Network Management: A Primer for Consumers, Advocates and Policy Makers

Network management - the process used to maintain the integrity and operations of a communications network - is a beneficial and necessary function of modern networks that has nonetheless become embroiled in the controversies related to network neutrality and traffic congestion on the Internet. This three-part series examines network management - what it is, how it works, what it means to consumers, and what policies would most benefit consumers and network operators in their efforts to maintain effective communications. Part III addresses the challenges for policy makers in attempting to balance the desires of consumers with the realities of network engineering.