CRTC to investigate management of Internet speed
Hearings into Internet service providers’ regulation of Internet data have begun in Gatineau, Que. The CRTC is examining whether ISPs like Bell and Rogers are violating the Canadian Telecommunications Act by controlling certain parts of Internet traffic. Both Bell and Rogers limit maximum downloads and “throttle” Internet traffic—purposely reducing speeds for certain programs, like peer-to-peer applications. The companies claim these methods are necessary to stop slowdowns and Internet congestion. Critics of the practices claim they violate net neutrality, which is the idea that ISPs should never interfere with Internet data or restrict speed for any users or applications. Representatives from major and minor ISPs, businesses relying on the Internet, the entertainment industry, and consumer advocate groups will be testifying at the hearings, which are scheduled to finish in six days.