Comcast Defends Role As Internet Traffic Cop

[flashl]

Source: Washington Post

Comcast said yesterday that it purposely slows down some traffic on its network, including some music and movie downloads, an admission that sparked more controversy in the debate over how much control network operators should have over the Internet.

In a filing with the Federal Communications Commission, Comcast said such measures -- which can slow the transfer of music or video between subscribers sharing files, for example -- are necessary to ensure better flow of traffic over its network.

In defending its actions, Comcast stepped into one of the technology industry's most divisive battles. Comcast argues that it should be able to direct traffic so networks don't get clogged; consumer groups and some Internet companies argue that the networks should not be permitted to block or slow users' access to the Web.

Comcast's FCC filing yesterday was in response to petitions to the agency by the consumer group Free Press and the online video provider Vuze, which claimed that the cable company was abusing its control over its network to impede video competition.

Washington Post

Read more: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/02/12/AR2008021202778.html?hpid%3Dmoreheadlines&sub=AR

---

Comcast's admission of its actions, which disregards implied level of service agreement with its subscribers, requires everyone’s attention.

[KnaveRupe]

1. I recently got a telemarketing call from my ISP

offering their new "turbo!!!" service. I told the caller that my broadband service was plenty fast, thank you very much, and that I wasn't interested in paying any more than I already am.

Curiously enough, in the two weeks since I refused their offer, my Internet service seems to have slowed down. I haven't done benchmarks or anything, but it sure SEEMS slower.

Paranoia?

[AX10]

2. I have Charter Communications!

Much better than Comcast. Cheaper too.

[fascisthunter]

3. I'm Dumping Them... Say Buh Bye to My Money

goddamn fascist pricks!

[Robbien]

4. Oh sure. Comcast's excuse is that they be the arbitrator of who may use

the web and which usage clogs up the system?

How is that a defense?

At least they are admitting they are gatekeeping the web.

[Deja Q]

5. DSL rocks.

Each connection is dedicated; not part of a locally shared segment.

Comcast also charges per-device connectivity. The DSL service I use allowed me to buy or lease a router, and I can connect 5 wired + any wireless devices without any increase in fee.

[pinniped]

6. Comcrap sucks all around.

They jack up your bill so they can show you 3 or 4 commercials every break.

Screw them.