Comcast denies blocking file sharing

Comcast has denied widespread reports that it routinely blocks its customers from accessing file-sharing applications.

While it does use bandwidth management which can result in delays for those using peer-to-peer networks, it never blocks applications outright, the company contended. The Associated Press has reported that it carried out tests which found that Comcast does actually block certain applications such as BitTorrent.

Steve Bannerman, who works at the network intelligence company Narus, told Reuters: "US ISPs are not preventing anybody from getting to the applications, but they are preventing some users of P2P services from hogging all the bandwidth and slowing down the experience for other users." Many have seen the reported blocking of applications as a violation of net neutrality regulations.

BitTorrent is mainly seen as a way to download copyrighted songs and movies, however it is also used for other more legitimate applications.