Comcast Defends Role As Internet Traffic Cop

RCTrucker7 writes "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."

Comments

Re:If comcast want'sto do this

[DaveV1.0]

Why shouldn't they be protected from the actions of scumbags? Do you suggest they just close off those ports instead of throttling the usage of a few to benefit the rest of their customers?

Or do you think your desire to illegally download movies outweighs rights of those who wish to engage in legal usage?

Oh, I know. Maybe they should modify their acceptable use and terms of services so people who download illegal items must pay one dollar a kilobyte.

You are a selfish asshole.

Re:If comcast want'sto do this

[Shakrai]

If they are doing deep packet inspection to filter and slow traffic identified as peer to peer, are they not party responsible for the alleged infringment?

Only if you are one of the dumbasses that thinks p2p == infringement.

This internet HDTV show is a perfectly legitimate use of bittorrent that just happens to be interfered with by policies like these. I'm sure that 20 people will chime in with replies to this post stating other legitimate uses as well.

Re:If comcast want'sto do this

[DaveV1.0]

Well, then stop complaining about net neutrality or STFU.