FCC Chairman Speaks on New Open Access Rules

What the new open access rules mean for WiMAX operators such as Clearwire: Incumbent mobile operators generally disapprove of rules that would prevent them from restricting the flow of various types of data. This also affects cable operators such as Comcast, who in the past have been accused of slowing or capping data flow of P2P file sharing and other applications. Operators insist that it is necessary to control data flows in order to maintain the overall quality of their networks. Usage statistics of 3G-3.5G mobile data as well as cable networks consistently show that bottlenecks can occur, particularly during peak usage periods. Without some means to control heavy data usage during those periods, they argue that their service to their customers will suffer.

Alternative services providers argue that operators can use the quality control mechanisms (QoS) as a ruse to restrict their services such as VoIP, even during periods or conditions when doing so does not improve overall network quality. It seems likely that the new FCC rules will require fewer restrictions on data flows. For the most part this move is favorable to WiMAX and LTE service providers, even though they may wish to take advantage of QoS mechanisms. This is a net benefit because these new networks will have the 'fattest pipe' with more headroom to handle abuse from heavy users...