Band Narrowing

Definition and Technical Implementation Methods

Bandwidth throttling is the deliberate reduction of transmission speed for specific internet services or platforms by internet service providers (ISPs) or authorized authorities. This practice aims not to block users’ complete access to certain websites or applications but to slow down their access and make usage more difficult. It is frequently employed during crises or when governments seek to control traffic flows under the pretext of maintaining public order or national security.

However, bandwidth throttling has sparked serious debates regarding fundamental internet freedoms and the right to free expression, as it is criticized for restricting individuals’ right to receive information and access knowledge.

Bandwidth throttling can be implemented through various technical methods:

1. IP-Based Restriction: Data traffic to specific IP addresses associated with a service is limited, making it difficult for users to access the relevant platform.
2. Domain Name System (DNS) Restriction: DNS queries directed at specific domains are delayed or blocked, preventing users from accessing the site through web browsers.
3. Packet Filtering: Network traffic is analyzed to slow down or deprioritize data packets associated with specific platforms.
4. Latency Increase: The time required to access a specific site is intentionally extended, negatively affecting user experience and deterring usage.
5. Mobility Data Restriction: Mobile operators can slow down or restrict access to certain applications, forcing users to rely on alternative connections such as Wi-Fi for efficient internet use.

Historical Background and Global Examples

Bandwidth throttling practices have been implemented by various countries across the world for different purposes. For example, within the framework of the so-called “Great Firewall of China,” access to foreign news sources and certain websites is heavily restricted. In Iran, during periods of intensified anti-regime protests, internet access has either been completely cut off or access to specific applications has been significantly slowed.

In Türkiye, it has been reported that access to social media platforms has been slowed particularly during crises or following political developments. For instance, after February 6, 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes, bandwidth on like platforms was throttled to bring news sharing on social media under control. Similarly, after internet outages on 19 March 2025, access to certain social media platforms was significantly slowed, a situation confirmed by organizations such as NetBlocks.

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Purposes of Implementation

Bandwidth throttling is typically justified by the following reasons:

1. Network Management: Reducing the speed of applications that consume high bandwidth to prevent network congestion and maintain service quality.
2. Legal Regulations: Limiting access to certain platforms to preserve public order, ensure national security, or prevent the spread of misinformation during emergencies. Access restrictions imposed on social media platforms during certain events in Türkiye fall under this category.
3. Commercial Strategies: ISPs may slow down competing services to favor their own offerings or those of their business partners.

Economic Impacts of Bandwidth Throttling

The economic impacts of bandwidth throttling can be far-reaching:

• Impact on E-Commerce: Difficulty in accessing online platforms by users can directly affect sales.
• Impact on Digital Advertising: Slower internet traffic can reduce the number of ad impressions and click-through rates.
• Impact on Online Business Models: Freelancers, content creators, and online service providers may suffer income losses due to bandwidth throttling.

Measures Taken by Users Against Bandwidth Throttling

Individuals employ various methods to circumvent bandwidth throttling:

• Use of VPNs: Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) encrypt internet traffic, allowing users to bypass restrictions.
• DNS Change: Alternative DNS services can help overcome certain access blocks.
• Use of the Tor Network: The Tor browser provides a structure for routing internet traffic that can be effective in evading censorship.
• Use of Proxies: Internet traffic can be rerouted through proxy servers to mitigate the effects of bandwidth throttling.

Bandwidth Throttling from the Perspective of International Law and Human Rights

Internet access has been recognized under international human rights instruments as falling within the scope of freedom of expression. The United Nations Human Rights Council recognizes internet access as a fundamental human right and emphasizes that states must not arbitrarily restrict this access. The European Court of Human Rights has also issued several rulings concerning the blocking of internet access.

In Türkiye, bandwidth throttling practices carried out by the Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) have been brought before judicial proceedings and examined on grounds of alleged violations of freedom of expression. Allegations that internet access has been deliberately slowed during crises or election periods have drawn attention from international human rights organizations.