Surely it would be better for everyone if the upload speed was made equal to the download speed so that data exchanges completed more quickly?
Unless you are trying to send large attachments via email, uploads consist of tiny data packets - mainly website URL's. Downloading the content of those image and video filled web pages we all "enjoy" makes up the bulk of transfer. You can get a "symmetric" line if you want, and are prepared to pay for it, but normal domestic users would see little benefit.
If you want to see what is flowing each way you can download and run this nifty little programme from Nirsoft:
Code:
http://www.nirsoft.net/utils/smsniff.html
Just extract the Zip folder to somewhere on your computer and run the .exe file inside. The columns "Remote Address" "Packets" and "Data Size" are the ones of interest. Call up a webpage and watch the results. Particularly good if you are watching a video or listening to streaming radio, and you'll soon find out how many other programmes are "phoning home" in the background! Google any IP addresses you don't recognise.