Reveal average
surf speed? ISPs say no
They object to Govt's proposal, arguing many factors affect Net
speeds
By Jessica Lim
THE three major Internet service providers (ISPs) here have
objected to the Government's proposal to get them to disclose
average surfing speeds to market their broadband.
StarHub, SingTel and M1 currently market their plans based on their
rarely achievable maximum speeds.
In response to the Government's proposal, all three argue that
multiple factors affect Internet speeds, making it impossible for
them to define an average speed. Any attempts to do so would be
inaccurate and misleading, they say.
The proposal came in a consultation paper published last month,
which invited public feedback.
In it, the Infocomm Development Authority (IDA) said ISPs here have
historically sold their fixed and mobile broadband plans by
advertising their top speeds, which are not usually achievable
under normal Internet conditions.
By 5pm yesterday, the deadline for submissions, the technology
sector regulator had attracted 18 views.
The bulk of respondents were ISPs including the three major
players, but there was also a smattering of Internet companies such
as Google, ESPN Star Sports, and Skype, as well as two
individuals.
In a 20-page statement, SingTel pointed out that average Internet
speeds experienced by users vary depending on how many are using
the network at any given time. Speeds are also dependent on radio
signal quality which can be affected by external interference, it
said.
M1 aired similar views. In its response, it said it strongly
objects to the proposal for ISPs to state average Internet access
speeds as 'there is basically no sound, objective and equitable
basis to do so considering the many variables involved'.
It said computer processing speed and power supply would also
affect Internet connection, as would the type of operating system
used. Instead, it urged the IDA to improve public education on
broadband Internet services.
In its response, StarHub said 'requiring operators to disclose
expected average Internet access speeds would serve to create even
more confusion and disputes with end-users'.
However, players such as Skype applauded the IDA's move to 'improve
transparency', provided the information disclosed would help users
make an informed choice.
They also agreed with the other point the IDA raised in its
consultation paper - that ISPs should not unilaterally block
legitimate online content or services. Rules against this are
already in place.
For example, an ISP cannot limit the bandwidth for Skype telephone
calls to avoid losing out on fixed-line revenues.
The telcos say they agree with the IDA's current policy on this
matter.
Mr Foong King Yew, research director with technology research firm
Gartner, agreed that there are many factors affecting Internet
speeds. However, he said ISPs can do more.
'The companies should still be able to come up with a better gauge
of Internet speeds. Providing the maximum speed is vague and it
does not give any indication of what paying customers can
expect.'
He added that it was predictable that ISPs would be against the
proposals because they make it 'easier for consumers to make
comparisons'.
The IDA said the responses have generally been positive. It added
that it will review the feedback and decide whether its current
position is appropriate, and if regulations need to be enhanced or
relaxed.
Individuals who submitted feedback, including a Mr Khong Heng Poh,
support the average surfing speeds proposal. 'If ISPs are indeed
providing the actual speeds as advertised, why not disclose them?'
he asked. 'What's there to hide?'
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