Abstract: A method of providing network access across a shared communications medium between competing users includes the step of allocating network access for each user for a future time interval. Features include forecasting network access of the users in a future time interval, and prioritizing the users for allocating network access to the users. The network access allocations represent network access allowances available to the users during the future time interval, and further may represent network access usage. Classes of users can be allocated network access first, and then each user allocated network access from the class allocation. Users with high network access usage are identified and solicited to modify service level agreements under which network access is provided. Network Access is also provided to user classes under class service level agreements entered into, for instance, by a service provider on behalf of the users.

Abstract: A method of providing network access across a shared communications medium between competing users includes the steps of monitoring network access usage by each user for a past time interval and, based on the monitored network access usage, allocating network access for each user during a future time interval. Features include forecasting network access that will be utilized or requested by users in a future time interval, and prioritizing the users for allocating network access to the users.