Comcast has notified the FCC [
pdf] that it is updating its methodology for managing peak loads on its internet service.
According to Comcast, if certain areas near a state of congestion, the company will apply techniques to provide all customers with a fair share of access to the network. Comcast will identify the customer accounts which are using the greatest bandwidth and their Internet traffic will be temporarily managed until the congestion passes. All customers will still be able to do anything online, but they could experience longer times for file downloading or uploading, Web surfing may seem slower, or playing games may seem sluggish.
The new techniques do not manage based on the specific online activities, protocols or applications. Network management only focuses on the heaviest users in real time, so the periods of congestion could be fleeting.
A FAQ is available from Comcast. The new system will be in place before the end of the year.
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