Shaw doubles web speeds based on DOCSIS 3.1 upgrades

Nov. 30, 2018
Shaw Communications (TSX:SJR.B) is doubling the speeds of its top Internet packages for all new and existing residential customers in ...

Shaw Communications (TSX:SJR.B) is doubling the speeds of its top Internet packages for all new and existing residential customers in western Canada. The speed increases are based on DOCSIS 3.1 network upgrades.

Shaw launched its DOCSIS 3.1-based Internet 300 tier in July. All existing Internet 300 and Internet 150 residential customers' plans will be automatically upgraded in the coming weeks to 600 and 300 Mbps downstream, respectively, at no additional cost. All new Shaw customers will also have access to the higher speeds.

"This isn't a promotion or a one-time offer. This is an unprecedented upgrade to our best Internet plans, giving customers even faster speeds to help them use more powerful in-home technology and lead a more connected life," said Brad Shaw, chief executive officer, Shaw Communications. "We strive to give our customers more value, and we know that having faster download speeds is vital. We're doubling the speeds of our fastest offerings. No tricks, no gimmicks, just more speed. It's that simple."

Shaw has made significant investments over the past several years to expand its 1.4-million-kilometer fiber network to nearly all neighborhoods in its western Canadian footprint.

"The strength of our extensive network paired with industry-leading DOCSIS 3.1 technology means that we can offer our fastest speeds to almost all of our customers today without needing to dig holes in their street, break apart their sidewalk or rip up their lawn. And because we don't charge for data overages, our customers also have the peace of mind in knowing they can use our network as much as they want without penalty," Shaw said.

The upgraded Internet 300 and Internet 150 plans are available for new residential customers starting at $55 and $50 per month for the first six months on a price-guaranteed two-year contract.

New and existing customers can expect to see their Internet speeds double in the coming weeks. Alternatively, existing customers can get their speed upgrade sooner by power-cycling their modem beginning Dec. 3.