About the Internet Society 

ISOC Principles and Goals

ISOC's activities are founded upon, and driven by, the following principles:

• Open, unencumbered, beneficial use of the Internet.
• Self-regulated content providers; no prior censorship of on-line communications.
• On-line free expression is not restricted by other indirect means such as excessively restrictive governmental or private controls over computer hardware or software, telecommunications infrastructure, or other essential components of the Internet.
• Open forum for the development of standards and Internet technology.
• No discrimination in use of the Internet on the basis of race, color, gender, disability, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, or other status.
• Personal information generated on the Internet is neither misused nor used by another without informed consent of the principal.
• Internet users may encrypt their communication and information without restriction.
• Encouragement of cooperation between networks: connectivity is its own reward, therefore network providers are rewarded by cooperating with each other.

Purposes and Goals of the Organisation

Flowing from the principles set out above, ISOC's main purpose is to maintain and extend the development and availability of the Internet and its associated technologies and applications. This is both an end in itself and a means of enabling organisations, professions, and individuals worldwide to more effectively collaborate, cooperate, and innovate in their respective fields and interests.

ISOC's specific goals include:

• Development, maintenance, evolution, and dissemination of standards for the Internet and its internetworking technologies and applications.
• Growth and evolution of the Internet architecture.
• Maintenance and evolution of effective administrative processes necessary for operation of the global Internet and internets.
• Education and research related to the Internet and internetworking.
• Harmonisation of actions and activities at international levels to facilitate the development and availability of the Internet.
• Collection and dissemination of information related to the Internet and internetworking, including histories and archives.
• Assisting technologically developing countries, areas, and peoples in implementing and evolving their Internet infrastructure and use.
• Liaison with other organisations, governments and the general public for coordination, collaboration, and education in effecting the above purposes.