Netflix has agreed to pay Comcast for a direct connection to the cable and internet service provider’s network, a so-called ‘peering agreement.’
In a joint statement the two companies announced “a mutually beneficial interconnection agreement that will provide Comcast’s US broadband customers with a high-quality Netflix video experience for years to come.”
“Working collaboratively over many months, the companies have established a more direct connection between Netflix and Comcast, similar to other networks, that’s already delivering an even better user experience to consumers, while also allowing for future growth in Netflix traffic. Netflix receives no preferential network treatment under the multi-year agreement, terms of which are not being disclosed.”
The announcement of the deal comes at the time when Comcast has made an offer to buy the Time Warner Cable networks and will face regulatory scrutiny including proving access to its network by OTT providers such as Netflix.