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October 12, 2008 10:39:05 AM CDT

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Comcast Blocks P2P File-Sharing

Posted Oct 20, 07 5:52 AM CDT in Business,  Technology 

(Newser) – Comcast is deliberately preventing its customers from using file-sharing services like BitTorrent, eDonkey, and Gnutella, the AP reports. Thecountry's second-largest Internet service provider claims that it does not block "access" to P2P apps; that may be technically true. Tests by the AP showed that while downloads were unaffected, attempts to upload files using P2P were blocked—and those services depend on 2-way traffic.

Critics say the blocking highlights the need for "Net Neutrality" laws that would force ISPs to treat all traffic equally. And at least one of the affected companies says its just bad business. "They're using sophisticated technology to degrade service, which probably costs them a lot of money," the president of BitTorrent says. "It would be better to see them use that money to improve service."

Source Associated Press

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If implemented by other companies, the Comcast restriction could be a major blow to filesharing networks such as Bit Torrent.   (Shutterstock.com)
Comcast has admitted to actively interfering with the traffic of highspeed internet users who may be sharing files.   (Shutterstock.com)
Comcast has raised controversy by treating its internet customers less than equally.   (Shutterstock.com)
Comcast's name hangs in the lobby of its state headquarters in this Nov. 3, 2005 file photo, in Sandy, Utah. (AP Photo/Douglas C. Pizac, file)   (Associated Press)
A technician for Comcast Corp. heads out on a job in this Feb. 2, 2006 file photo in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Douglas C. Pizac, File)   (Associated Press)
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Net Neutrality: The Fight for Internet Freedom   (5050vision (YouTube))

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Comcast  • file sharing  • net neutrality  • BitTorrent  • P2P  • peer to peer  • eDonkey  • Gnutella


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