Internet Traffic Management Practices (ITMPs)
Northwestel’s Internet Traffic Management Practices are currently active in the following communities:
Arviat, NU
Cambridge Bay, NU
Iqaluit, NU
Rankin Inlet, NU
No other communities have active ITMP measures on Northwestel retail wireline Internet services.
Northwestel’s Internet Traffic Management Practices (ITMPs):
What is Northwestel’s ITMP policy
Northwestel manages Internet traffic on small portions of our network during peak utilization to ensure our customers have access to the most consistent, reliable experience. This is known as our ITMP Policy.
The purpose of Northwestel’s ITMP Policy
Northern Canadians rely on the Internet for more and more of their communications and entertainment needs. Our Internet traffic volumes have experienced significant growth as customers use increasing amounts of video streaming services and interactive content online.
To ensure all users have the best possible user experience, Northwestel may manage specific types of Internet traffic during peak periods to optimize the distribution of available bandwidth and deliver an equitable Internet experience.
Ensuring the best possible online experience
Internet traffic management ensures all users have fair and equitable access during peak times of use. This protects and improves the performance of real-time applications by reallocating bandwidth from less time sensitive applications.
ITMP impacts
This policy may only impact the user experience of a small number of customers in communities when demand for Internet usage is greater than the available network capacity.
Only at times of peak congestion will certain applications be prioritized. This will be done to prioritize time sensitive applications over less time sensitive applications.
Internet traffic subject to ITMP
All Internet traffic may be subject to ITMP.
Internet traffic types generally prioritized in the following categories.
High Priority: Web Browsing, VOIP, Instant Messaging, E-mail, Tunneling, Online Games, News Groups.
Medium Priority: Streaming Protocols, Web Video, Software Updates, Online Storage.
Low Priority: Peer-to-Peer, Peer-casting, Remote Connectivity, File Access, IOT/Smart home.
Cybersecurity blocking
To protect the integrity and security of our networks, we take various cybersecurity measures to block Internet traffic for the purpose of protecting against cyber attacks. In doing so, we comply with the CRTC’s network-level cybersecurity blocking framework, as set out in Compliance and Enforcement and Telecom Decision CRTC 2026-140.
Types of blocking and how they work
To ensure consistent protection, we apply cybersecurity blocking at the network level. This means you do not need to opt in, and you cannot opt out.
This blocking is done exclusively to protect against cyber attacks (for example, botnets and malware) and not for any commercial, competitive, political or other non security purpose.
Depending on the situation, we may use several different types of blocking, such as port blocking, blocking forged source addresses, and blocking or slowing down of traffic based on traffic volume anomalies such as in the case of a suspected denial-of-service attack. We may rely on third-party providers to support our blocking, and these providers may be located outside of Canada.
We periodically review our blocking systems to verify that they work as intended. We collect, use and disclose personal information in accordance with our privacy policy.
Protect yourself against cyber attacks
Cybersecurity blocking aims to provide a safer Internet service, but it is not a replacement for user-level protections. It is important that you secure your own devices and Internet connection against cyber threats, such as by installing and updating antivirus software, performing regular software updates, managing a firewall, using strong passwords, enabling multifactor authentication, and securing your wireless connection.
Filing a complaint or reporting a false-positive
If you believe your Internet traffic was blocked in error, have concerns about overblocking, or wish to file a complaint about our cybersecurity blocking, you can email blocking.complaints@bell.ca.
Please note that a variety of factors outside of our control may affect your Internet traffic, including your antivirus or firewall software, your home Wi-Fi connectivity, technical issues with the website you are trying to reach, or the network blocking practices of another Internet service provider (ISP) in the communication path between you and the website, service or other destination you are trying to access.
To help us investigate your complaint, please provide the exact date and time of the issue, together with a brief description of what you experienced, including an exact description of what you believe was blocked in error and why you believe our cybersecurity blocking may have caused the issue.
We will review the reported issue and take corrective action if required. We may provide a response to your complaint as needed. Complaints will be resolved within five business days.
No Internet access blocking or monitoring customer’s online activities
Northwestel does not block any Internet traffic or application, nor do we monitor the content of customer communications or activities on the Internet.
