Fox has turned off instant access to its network shows effective this afternoon for all but “authenticated” pay television customers.  But with only one partnered provider thus far — Dish Network — that leaves millions on an eight day waiting list.

Fox Network programming on its own website and Hulu is impacted by the new embargo, which means the vast majority will have to wait at least a week for access to new episodes.  Customers paying for Hulu + are not affected by the delay, and the network promises forthcoming partnerships with other cable and satellite providers shortly.

Fox says it’s all a part of “retransmission consent” agreements with pay providers.  Major cable operators don’t want to pay for Fox affiliates and cable networks if the network is willing to give away free access to programs online.  In return for blocking access to “cord-cutters,” cable companies hope to stop consumers from switching off cable television packages.

Viewers who try and access shows are brought to a new authentication page to “unlock” access to programming.  If they can’t because their provider isn’t listed, they can fill out an online form requesting their provider participate in the TV Everywhere project.

Most Fox viewers probably will not encounter the new FoxBlock until late fall.  That’s when new seasons of Glee, House, and The Simpsons get started.