Comcast answers to the FCC

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Feb13

Comcast answers to the FCC

Andrew Taub

February 13, 2008

Know More: Network Services comcast, fcc, internet

file%20sharing.jpg

In official comments yesterday, Comcast told the FCC that it is reasonable to obstruct some file-sharing by its subscribers in order to keep Web traffic flowing for everyone.

Comcast says it must restrain some file-sharing traffic because a few high volume subscribers could overload the system and slow traffic in their neighborhood. Cable Internet access uses shared node technology, where everyone in a neighborhood shares certain access points and bandwidth.

One of the biggest concerns about this is the method Comcast is using. Comcast sometimes inserts “fake” packets in the data stream to kill a file-sharing session. The move "fools" each computer into believing the other computer wants to end the connection. What’s more, the IP addresses of Comcast's packets fool the users computer in thinking they're from one of the file-sharing computers when they are in fact from Comcast.

Comcast likens the fake packets to a busy signal for a fax machine. Critics contend they are more like an operator breaking into a telephone conversation and telling each participant in the voice of the other: "Sorry, I have to hang up. Good bye."

In its comments to the FCC Tuesday, Comcast called that comparison "inflammatory hyperbole” and say that alternatives don't exist.

On January 25th, Comcast updated its online Acceptable Use Policy to say that it reserved the right to break off file-sharing connections on congested cables.

related entries

Comcast Backs Down Apr 6, 2008
The FCC strikes back Feb 25, 2008
Complaint filed with FCC over Comcast's use of delaying tactics Nov 2, 2007
ISP P2P blocking more common then thought May 16, 2008
Unlimited no more May 15, 2008

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