Traffic Throttling: What It Means for Your Online Experience

Internet traffic throttling negatively affects your online experience. We explain why it happens and ways to navigate it. Stay informed and get the most out of your internet.
Date: November 4, 2023

Please Note: Apsis does not throttle your internet speed or have any limits on the amount of data you can download.

Internet Traffic Throttling: What It Means for Your Online Experience

Are you paying one of the "big companies" for internet, and you've noticed that sometimes your internet connection feels slower than usual? You're not alone.

One reason behind your speed issues is a practice big companies do called "traffic throttling".

We'll discuss internet throttling, why it happens, and how it can negatively affect your online activities. By the end, you'll have a clearer understanding of this often unknown area of internet service.

What is Internet Traffic Throttling?

At its core, traffic throttling is your internet connection being slowed down from your ISP. Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can intentionally slow down your internet speed for specific types of data or during peak usage times. It's like having a cap on how fast your internet can go in certain situations.

Why Do ISPs Throttle Internet Traffic?

ISPs implement traffic throttling for a variety of reasons:

  • Network Congestion: When many people use the internet simultaneously, like during evening streaming hours, it can create congestion. Throttling the connections helps ISPs manage this traffic jam, ensuring everyone gets a reasonable share of the available bandwidth
  • Fair Usage: Some ISPs throttle heavy internet users to prevent a small number of customers from hogging all the bandwidth, which could negatively affect others on the same network
  • Compliance with Regulations: In some cases, ISPs may throttle certain types of data to comply with government regulations or maintain network stability

How Does Internet Traffic Throttling Work?

To understand how throttling works, think of it as traffic police controlling the flow of cars on a road. ISPs use specialized equipment to identify specific types of data, like video streaming or large file downloads. When they detect such data, they slow down the speed it travels through their network.

Effects on Your Online Activities

The impact of throttling can be noticeable during various online activities:

  • Streaming Videos: Buffering and lower video quality can occur when your ISP throttles video streaming services
  • Online Gaming: Throttling can lead to lag, long ping times, and disruptions in your online gaming experience
  • Large Downloads: If you're downloading big files, they will take longer to complete

Detecting and Dealing with Throttling

There are a few signs to look out for to see if your internet is being held back

  • Consistently Slow Speeds: If your internet is consistently slow, especially during specific times of the day, it could be a sign of throttling
  • VPN Test: Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can sometimes help bypass throttling, as it encrypts your traffic
  • Contacting Your ISP: Reach out to your ISP and ask about their throttling policies

The Importance of ISP Transparency

Transparency from your ISP matters in todays world. They should inform you about their throttling practices and policies, so you know what to expect.

Being an informed customer can help you make decisions about your internet service and whether to explore other options.

Why Choose Apsis Communications?

No Long-Term Contracts

Enjoy flexibility with no commitments. Stay because you love us, not because you’re locked in.

Affordable & Simple Pricing

Get competitive rates on all our services with no hidden fees, and bundle to save even more.

Local Customer Support

Our support team is local, ensuring you get the help you need, when you need it.

With Apsis, you’re getting personalized service and support that’s just a phone call away.

We take pride in helping Southern Ontario reduce Internet, TV, and phone bills.

What sets us apart?

We’re committed to delivering reliable, lightning-fast internet connections that power your life, work, and play.

Experience the best in high-speed internet with Apsis - based right here in Niagara Falls.

Internet Service Provider Video Testimonial of Happy Clients

Our Services

We're more than just unlimited Internet.

Image for High-Speed Internet services in Ontario

Unlimited High-Speed Internet

Enjoy fast, reliable internet with unlimited data and no contracts. Perfect for streaming, gaming, and working from home.

Image for TV services in Ontario

Customizable TV Service & Packages

Watch what you want, when you want, with customizable TV packages and HD channels. We have all your favourite shows!

Image for Home phone services in Ontario

Affordable Home Phone Service

Stay connected with unlimited local and long-distance calling, plus essential features. Stay connected for only $15/month.

Apsis Support

We're here if you need help. View your bill online and get support.

My Portal

Login to My Portal to view your account, update details, or pay a bill.

Customer Support

If you have any questions or need help, we'd love to assist! Contact us here.

FAQ's

We have written detailed answers to frequent questions we get here Apsis.

Apsis Logo

4635 Queen St Suite 1
Niagara Falls, ON

support@apsiscom.com

(866) 954-5176

Apsis Communications helps Ontario enjoy fast and affordable high-speed internet, home phone, and TV service for over 5 years.

Unlimited Internet, designed for you.

Switch to Apsis, an Internet Service Provider that provides great service with a personal touch.

Support Hours

Mon - Fri: 10AM - 6PM

Saturday: 10AM - 3PM

Store Hours

Mon - Fri: 10AM - 5:30PM


© 2024 Apsis Communications. All rights reserved.

Website by Milton Web Design