ANATEL protects your residential connection: providers cannot cut off the signal due to excessive consumption

Fixed internet is a guaranteed right, and ANATEL has established strong protections against the practice of cutting off internet due to data overage. Although many contracts still include data caps, these restrictions are suspended indefinitely by the regulatory agency.

In practice, what does this mean for you?

The suspension means unlimited browsing. You can stream series, download large files, and work in video conferences without the risk of your connection being interrupted. Operators are prohibited from cutting off internet or reducing speed when you exceed your contracted data cap.

This measure protects a fundamental right: access to information. Since residential internet is essential for remote work and education, the agency classifies it as a continuous service, unlike mobile internet where disconnection is permitted after the data cap is reached.

What to do if your speed drops drastically?

If your connection becomes significantly slower and you suspect that the provider is reducing speed due to data cap limits, it is essential to record the data. Note the date, time, and observed speed, then contact the provider to question the reduction.

If the company confirms that it reduced the speed due to “exceeding” the data cap, this directly violates ANATEL’s regulations. At this point, you should file a formal complaint with the National Telecommunications Agency or consumer protection agencies, keeping documented proof of the service request.

Your rights guaranteed in residential broadband

ANATEL ensures consumers the right to unlimited browsing without the operator cutting off internet due to data volume. Additionally, the contracted speed cannot be reduced due to excessive consumption, and you are entitled to receive at least 80% of the agreed average speed. If there are service interruptions, you should receive a discount on your bill for the periods without connection.

Why does mobile phone service work differently?

Mobile internet follows different rules. In mobile providers, it is permitted to cut access or drastically reduce speed when the data package is exhausted. This occurs because mobile infrastructure faces spectrum limitations different from fixed residential networks. That’s why it’s common to receive SMS alerts about data cap consumption—something that should never happen with your home broadband.

Is the trend to maintain protection?

Periodically, discussions resurface about ending unlimited internet on broadband, but consumer protection entities like IDEC continue fighting to maintain this prohibition. Meanwhile, you can rely on regulatory protections that prevent any provider from cutting off residential internet due to data caps.