Comcast Victory in Internet Traffic Dispute

WASHINGTON: The FCC exceeded its authority in its 2008 ruling against Comcast Corporation over blocking some Internet traffic, a U.S. federal appeals court ruled today.

Comcast was issued a citation in 2008 for limiting the Internet traffic of some subscribers that had been sending or receiving large files that were taking up too much bandwidth. A U.S. Court of Appeals today ruled that the FCC did not have the power to regulate an Internet service provider’s policies for managing its own network. The ruling delivers a blow to the FCC’s efforts to enforce its net neutrality rules.

"The commission has failed to tie its assertion of ancillary authority over Comcast’s Internet service to any statutorily mandated responsibility," the court’s opinion said.

In a statement, Comcast said: “We are gratified by the Court’s decision today to vacate the previous FCC’s order. Our primary goal was always to clear our name and reputation. We have always been focused on serving our customers and delivering the quality open-Internet experience consumers want. Comcast remains committed to the FCC’s existing open Internet principles, and we will continue to work constructively with this FCC as it determines how best to increase broadband adoption and preserve an open and vibrant Internet.”