BT accused of creating two-tiered network
January 4, 2011
BT has introduced a new service that is being met with controversy amidst accusations that it may allow broadband providers to establish ‘two-tier’ internet.
Content Connect, as the service is called, allows ISPs using BT’s network to charge other firms for delivery of high-speed video. The move could see the end of ‘net neutrality’, which has allowed traffic on the net to be treated equally, no matter the content.
Critics of the new service have said that it will serve to reduce competition for customers. Open Rights Group’s Jim Killock said that the service will catalyse a “sea of change” for content delivery.
Mr Killock said the result of charging for high-speed videos could mark a “fundamental shift” for consumers in the way they choose video and gaming services. It would serve to reduce competition and take away investment, he said.
A spokesperson for BT, however, denied any notion that the service is creating a ‘two-tiered’ internet. The spokesperson added that BT supports all “net neutrality”, but added that the company believes that providers should have the freedom to make their own commercial deals to ensure higher quality or better delivery for their consumers.
BT added that the new service is going to speed up download time across the network. Furthermore, the firm said that even those not using Content Connect will see faster services since it will ease the congestion on both networks.
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