Netflix, other tech firms join Internet Slowdown Day

Several tech companies including Netflix and Digg are participating in a digital protest supporting net neutrality.

The protest is part of Internet Slowdown Day, targeting cable companies that supporters of the movement say want to slow down the Web.

Now, this won't mean sites will intentionally slow their services to make this point. Instead, visitors to sites like Netflix, Digg, Reddit, Mozilla, Etsy and Foursquare will display messaging with the iconic, spinning "loading" symbol. They will also urge users to share their complaints with the Federal Communications Commission and Congress.

Several apps may also display prompts to stop cable companies' "slowlane."

"Cable companies want to slow down (and break!) your favorite sites, for profit," reads a description of Battle For The Net website. "To fight back, let's cover the web with symbolic "loading" icons, to remind everyone what an Internet without net neutrality would look like."

Tech companies are also using Twitter to spread the word.

BBC reports Twitter also plans to participate, although there are no banners or other signs on their website as of this morning.

Follow Brett Molina on Twitter: @brettmolina23.