Active networks is a new area of research which investigates how computations can be performed within the network elements. The philosophy behind the active network paradigm is to move away from the traditional OSI model where networks are a passive mover of data. Instead, active networks allow complex functions to be deployed at strategic points within the network. In this paper, we view the available bit rate (ABR) service as an active service whereby congestion control functions are user deployed. We show the results of a simulation where an active explicit rate (ER) algorithm was implemented. We conclude by discussing how this can be extended so that ABR can provide a platform for the deployment of user driven service classes.