[Y!] Using the Web might get a lot pricier - Overclock.net

losttsol · 01-07-09

In times like these, surfing the Web might seem like one of life's cheaper entertainment options. But the next time you fire up your home computer, consider this: If some Internet service providers get their way, the meter could be running while you're shopping, e-mailing or reading news reports like this one.
That's because cable and telecommunications companies are forging ahead with plans to radically change their familiar flat-rate monthly Internet plans, just as new options for watching movies and TV online proliferate.
What should Web surfers expect? Usage caps that would penalize those who send and receive large amounts of data.
Time Warner Cable, for instance, is running a test in Beaumont, Texas, that offers a range of plans that allow between 5 and 40 gigabytes of bandwidth for new customers. The 5-gigabyte plan costs $29.95 a month, while customers pay $54.90 monthly for the 40-gigabyte plan. Customers who go over their limit pay $1 for every additional gigabyte. AT&T is testing a similar plan in Reno, Nev., with cap ranges between 20 GB and 150 GB for its new customers.

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My arms stuck · 01-07-09

This is awful. Cell phone companies are bad enough with their high prices, and now we might get the same treatment from our ISPs?

Jacka · 01-07-09

A lot of ISPs over here advertise their service as "Unlimited broadband", but they are subject to a "fair usage policy", which restricts bandwidth to a few gigabytes, in some cases.
Something should be done about this, it can be extremely misleading.

FieryCoD · 01-07-09

Especially when they're already throttling AND bandwidth capping here in Canada.

Thanks Rogers, you've done heaps for me with your "fastest internet, enough said" slogan.

vicious_fishes · 01-07-09

oh no, download limits you say ? however will anyone survive...

DarkStar189 · 01-07-09

And people complained about Comcast's 250GB cap lol

fstfrddy · 01-07-09

I already live that life with crappy satellite service from Skyway. Although it is better than dial-up if I go over the limit they cut my speed which almost never reaches the advertised speed that I pay for.