Comcast. the Almighty by Claudia Sonea

It's amazing Internet providers have all the rights in the world, while average consumer has to obey their rules and accept whatever comes. Take for example the Comcast Corp situation, the company interferes with the intentions of their subscribers that want to share files through eDonke, Gnutella and BitTorrent networks. The accusations of data discriminations are exaggerated, they don't care about the shared data, but about the speed of the Internet of the subscribers. The Associated Press through nationwide tests has proved that whenever users try to share files through BitTorrent, just before the completion the connection breaks and a message comes from the other user (although he did not send it) saying he has to cut the connection. It is said that it breaks the principle of Net Neutrality which means Internet providers can not offer preferential treatment. Comcast is the largest US cable TV operator and second Internet provider. According to spokesman Charlie Douglas no application is blocked, but measures have been taken in order to assure smooth Internet connection. Despite the fact that it's deceptive, the company has the right to manage its network as Matthew Elvey, Robb Topolski and Paul Tony Watson- Comcast subscribers- acknowledge. Most companies are forced to appeal to such methods because according to a survey this year by ipoque GmbH the file-sharing accounts for 50 to 90 percent of the Internet traffic overall. Provided that the BitTorrent's president and co-founder has noticed the blocking, he suggests to invest more money in finding ways of improving the Internet speed rather than spending with technology to block file-sharing networks. Is it illegal? Well, in 2006 AT&T agreed not to implement preferential treatment for the Web companies willing to get more money from their pocket, due to the fact that the Federal Communications Commission granted the acquisition of BellSouth Corp. So this way the Net Neutrality was born. However, they did not state they will not prioritize traffic based on its type. Since Comcast is doing preferential treatment based on traffic type, nothing can be done; even less because they don't acknowledge doing it. It's legal, but immoral. We are still victims and no law for those that hold the power. Stay connected…how much can you enjoy?!

related story: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071019/ap_on_hi_te/comcast_data_discrimination;_ylt=AlECeWnaLV0RJRhfjbfpJ5Gs0NUE

by Claudia Sonea for PocketNews (http://pocketnews.tv)

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