Learning about telecommunications is not easy for most. It can start to get quite complicated when people speak about spectrums, frequencies, and the practices associated with moving information from one spot to another. Like radio or microwaves, there are only so many frequencies that can be used to move telecommunications information, and these bits of spectrum are in high demand. The government has sold some off to various parties (think of your phone or Internet provider) and that is how you usually get online. However, is it a good idea for all of it be sold off to private companies?
There is only so much space on the spectrum, and the government is making very good money selling it off. However, if that continues, there would be no free space left and things could be very expensive. The idea of open spectrum is one in which anyone could use the frequencies for phones, Internet, etc., without violating the law. They could use their own devices, and this would be something that would be free to them. There would still be regulations that must be followed, however. Think of it as the same thing as our freeway system. Most is free for you to drive on, but you have to know how to drive, and you must follow the rules when using any roadway. As long as you obey the rules and have your own means to get on the highway, no one should stop you from using it.
Right now, the spectrum is managed by the government, but those wishing for open spectrum want to see this as something that anyone has a right to use. The belief is that this open spectrum would then allow people, businesses, and even government to freely exchange all types of information when and how they would like. Right now, there is only so much room because only certain frequencies or waves work with this type of information, and you must pay for a license to use each one. The hope is that this will change, and that space will be open to anyone who can use it responsibly.