ISPbeperking

ISPbeperking is a Dutch term that translates to "ISP throttling" in English. It refers to the practice where an Internet Service Provider (ISP) intentionally slows down a customer's internet connection. This can happen for various reasons, including managing network congestion, enforcing data caps, or as a response to specific types of internet traffic.

ISPs may implement throttling to ensure a fair distribution of bandwidth among all their users, especially during peak hours when network usage is highest. By slowing down connections that consume a disproportionate amount of data or engage in bandwidth-intensive activities, they aim to prevent a complete slowdown for everyone. Another common reason is the enforcement of data limits. If a user exceeds their monthly data allowance, their ISP might throttle their speed for the remainder of the billing cycle.

Throttling can also be applied to specific services or protocols. For instance, some ISPs have been accused of throttling peer-to-peer (P2P) traffic or video streaming services, leading to a degraded user experience for those activities. The legality and ethics of ISP throttling are subjects of ongoing debate, with proponents arguing for its necessity in network management and opponents emphasizing the importance of net neutrality and open internet access. In many regions, regulations exist to govern how and when ISPs can throttle user connections, often requiring transparency about their practices.