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Comcast Bends Under Net Neutrality Pressure

Promises new system for managing network, probably by end of year

By Laila Weir,  Newser User

Posted Mar 28, 2008 11:36 AM CDT
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(Newser) – Comcast is changing the way it manages Internet traffic after an intense public and FCC outcry over its blocking traffic from BitTorrent users. To cut use during peak hours, the Internet provider will stop targeting specific applications and instead slow its highest-bandwidth users’ traffic, reports the New York Times. Still, the FCC promised to continue scrutinizing the company.

“In the event of congestion, the half percent of people who are overutilizing an excessive amount of capacity will be slowed down subtly until capacity is restored,” said Comcast’s CTO. “For the other 99.5%, their performance will be maintained exactly as they expect it.” Comcast also said it’s been working with startup BitTorrent to optimize BitTorrent applications for its network.

David L. Cohen, executive vice-president of the Comcast Corporation testifies before the FCC during a hearing at the Harvard University Law School, Feb. 25, 2008.
David L. Cohen, executive vice-president of the Comcast Corporation testifies before the FCC during a hearing at the Harvard University Law School, Feb. 25, 2008.   (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)
Comcast CEO Brian Roberts gestures during his keynote speech at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2008.
Comcast CEO Brian Roberts gestures during his keynote speech at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2008.   (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
A projected image of the Comcast logo is seen at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2008.
A projected image of the Comcast logo is seen at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2008.   (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
Tom Tauke, Verizon Communications executive vice-president for Public Affairs, Policy and Communications, left, and David L. Cohen, executive vice-president of the Comcast Corporation listen to testimony before the FCC at Harvard University Law School, Feb. 25, 2008.
Tom Tauke, Verizon Communications executive vice-president for Public Affairs, Policy and Communications, left, and David L. Cohen, executive vice-president of the Comcast Corporation listen to testimony...   (AP Photo)
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Internet • Comcast • FCC • net neutrality • ISP • bandwidth usage

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