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

Slowdown

[Stanistani]

>Comcast... purposely slows down some traffic on its network, including some music and movie downloads...

Perhaps Comcast will experience a 'slowdown' in its profits...

At least it's all coming out in the open, instead of the issue being met with bland denials.

First post

[Goffee71]

First post man, woot, woot, wo**** *** Post intercepted by Comcast bandwidth preservation system! ACK*Metacheck - Checking for music, video, first post messages... DELAY*Post... 5... 4... 3... 2... 1... Service now resuming

Re:If comcast want'sto do this

[Anonymous Coward]

you HAD to bring in the car analogy, didnt you?

Next Headline....

[zappepcs]

Comcast defends role in Internet based copyright theft: legal team claiming common carrier status not revoked by packet based filtering.

Film at eleven (if we get rebroadcast rights)

Re:If comcast want'sto do this

[Shakrai]

and watching them flush illegal substances down the series of tubes you just installed.

I get rid of my illegal substances by dumping them onto a big truck. It's much more reliable then that series of tubes.

In other news

[Monoman]

You local power company said they are going to decide how much power will be allocated to each device in your house.

Re:Fuck You, Comcast.

[ShaunC]

My wireless AP has been named "Comcast Sucks Donkey Balls" for the better part of a year now. I guess it's no wonder my neighbors never wave... :)

Re:The sad state of things

[Blakey Rat]

You're comparing a $250/month, 1.5mbit connection to:

1) A $25/month, 3mbit steady DSL connection
2) A $35/month, 5mbit shared Cable connection

And saying that it's viable competition? When shared with 5 other people? You're crazy. My dirt-cheap DSL is much faster than a T1 will ever be. And you're crazy.