PowerBoost

Abstract

This paper examines a feature present in some cable broadband networks that can enable, for multiple megabytes of data, higher data rates than what can be sustained over the long term. Commonly referred to as "Powerboost," this feature represents a strategy for sharing unused link capacity among users of cable broadband networks. We explain how Powerboost works under current implementations, consider how it may impact the experiences of broadband users, and examine the challenges that Powerboost poses for the design of performance metrics that may be used to evaluate the service quality of broadband ISPs. We present sample measurement data for a Powerboost enabled broadband connection and discuss how such measurements might be reported in the current large scale broadband measurement study led by the FCC.