Some subscribers might be upset; most probably won't realize whats going on
According to a story coming from the Associated Press today, one of the United States largest Internet Service Providers, Comcast, is using methods to hinder uploading files for transfer through BitTorrent.
This not-advertised new 'feature' offered by Comcast is activated when a paying customer tries to share a legal (or perhaps illegal) file utilizing BitTorrent technology. When a file is 'seeded' (made available for transfer) online, some ISP-side sneaky software developed by Comcast apparently kicks in, canceling the file transfer, by sending 'break' messages to people trying to download the file.
Comcast's argument for possibly doing the above might be that vast amounts of their bandwidth is soaked up through illegal file transferring. A spokesperson for Comcast, Charlie Douglas, was vague as to the particulars of this new traffic-changing technique. However, Mr. Douglas was quoted as saying that Comcast does "have a responsibility to manage our network to ensure all our customers have the best broadband experience possible. This means [that] we use the latest technologies to manage our network to provide a quality experience for all Comcast subscribers."
BitTorrents use has exploded over the last few years for illegal, P2P file transfers -- but also as a legitimate way to disseminate files over the vast chasms of Earth's InterVoid. It seems reasonable to assume that some Comcast subscribers hearing that complete access to BitTorrent is being limited may be somewhat irked, or even possibly perturbed.
For more information on this recently breaking story, follow the link below.
Update: For Comcast's view and refutation of the matter, follow this link.
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From what I've read, it is an irregular thing.
BitTorrent has many legal uses. As do many other programs, but just about any program can be used illegally. Are they going to start doing things based off of biased assumptions?
This is bull.
Their service and ISP quality suck enough already. I already have to restart my computer to reset my internet connection at least once a day, if not twice.
Good thing I'm more of a megauploader.
Now, first off, let me Quote one of the founding Fathers [the name is lost to me I am terribal with names] " A government is best, that governs least". Now yes, Comcast is not the "Governemnt" But in this case they are, as they run the internet service.
This is all part of what is going on these days. The higher powers are trying to control the Plebians. It just doesn't float. It is just another example of Socialism working its magic in the American market place. Soaring prices, shit customer support, and workers, shitty products and on the side, a whole heaping pile of shitty "hide-ware". If Comcast can't even tell their customers about it, they can't legally do it!
Further, this is just one more encroachment upon Freedom, which the true implications of which are lost on many. But suffice it to say, that if my freedom to upload, and downlaod, it taken away. I could [would and should] sue Comcasts ass right the *bleep* off!
"to ensure all our customers have the best broadband experience possible."
Lol, I wonder, does Comcast really care if its customers have the best experience? I have never used Comcast, but from what I've read, no.
And really, "to ensure all our customers have the best broadband experience possible."??????? YEAH, RIGHT. All they're trying to do is save money by decreasing the bandwidth.
iamjoe56, how does socialism have something to do with this?
That is how it relates.
Also, if you step on a landmine, ti will probably be from you insulting me or otherwise trying to trample me. But I am open to talk, just keep it friendly.