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.

ISP 'blocks internet traffic'

Customers of Comcast that use high speed internet could be having some of their activities blocked by the internet service provider (ISP) it has been reported.

Specifically file-sharing activities are sometimes interfered with, widespread reports have alleged. A test carried out by the Associated Press found that the reports were true. This violation of net neutrality regulations is presumably so those doing large amounts of file sharing are not gobbling up other users' bandwidth.

Comcast spokesman Charlie Douglas told the Associated Press: "We have a responsibility to manage our network to ensure all our customers have the best broadband experience possible. "This means we use the latest technologies to manage our network to provide a quality experience for all Comcast subscribers." Among the activities that Comcast blocks is using BitTorrent, which is widely seen as a way to illegally download music and films. However, BitTorrent is also used for other more legitimate purposes.