This is the way the Internet ends: not with a bang, but DPI

Free Press claims that deep packet inspection could bring about the end of the Internet "as we know it." But the rest of the world knows it all too well already.

By Nate Anderson | Last updated March 20, 2009 12:33 PM CT

Does deep packet inspection mean the end of the Internet?

Deep packet inspection (DPI) gear has always been marketed to ISPs as a way to earn more money by scanning Internet traffic and charging more for various services. Want to game online? Better upgrade to the "Gaming Xtreme!" plan. Want to use VoIP? Prepare to open your wallet. Watch much streaming video? Well, it would be a whole lot smoother if you just paid another $2.99 a month.