MenuSearchEnglish Login Sign up SearchGermanyServicesBusiness directoryJobsPropertiesClassifiedsForumMore EventsMembersPictures//Connecting to the internet in GermanyShutterstock.comUpdated byon 02 April 2024 is easy thanks to its advanced telecommunications network and the widely available access to the internet. Nevertheless, Germany ranks 44th in the world, with the median broadband download speed at 83.69 Mbps, which can be interpreted as slow, considering that Monaco's is 319.59 Mbps — the fastest in the world. In addition to the slow internet, most public WiFi networks are under strong regulations, so we would advise you not to rely on free internet access but secure internet on your personal mobile device via a 4G or 5G provider.In this article....Types of internet connection in GermanyThe most common type of is ADSL. However, in rural areas, in particular, ADSL might be of lower quality, and users can experience their speed dragging. The good news is that during the pandemic, as the demand for modernized digital infrastructure became prevalent, Germany realized that digital infrastructure is a prerequisite for innovation and forward-looking business practices. Hence, in January 2021, telecommunication companies Deutsche Telekom and Telefónica/O2 announced their initiative to close several hundred grey spots in 4G network coverage in remote areas of Germany, where 4G network coverage is uneven. In other words, Deutsche Telekom and Telefónica/O2 offer customers 4G access on the 800 MHz frequency band in areas where smaller operators find it challenging to build and operate infrastructures. Good to know: VDSL (high-speed digital subscriber line) with optic fiber (data transmitted at the speed of light) is mostly available in large cities.Read also Using phones in Germany Network operators in GermanyWhen choosing an internet provider, make sure you know for how long you will need to maintain the subscription. Some networks offer promotional packages, which, however, come with binding contracts for a minimum of two years. Hence, if you are planning to for a shorter time and need internet, check for Ohne Mindertlaufzeit, which means there is no minimum duration. Otherwise, you can also get a portable WiFi router. It is important to remember that when receiving a router, it often remains the property of the internet provider, and you may have to send it back when changing providers or moving houses later on. Some of the major and most widely available Internet providers in Germany are outlined below. In general, these are large telecommunications companies that offer internet connections, as well as TV, phone, and mobile internet services, which, if combined in a package, can help you get good value for your money. has the best Internet connection in Germany and offers a wide range of reasonable packages; is one of the cheapest options. The downside is that it requires long-term customer commitment; offers the best customer service, which comes at the costliest price; offers complete and affordable packages.Connection speed mostly depends on the distance of the end-user from the nearest distributor, and, therefore, the full promised and advertised speeds may not always be reached. It's best to consult various comparison sites and ask your neighbors and colleagues which provider they use. Most likely, they will have already gone through the ordeal of finding the best and most reliable solution, and they will be able to share their insights with you. Overall, different areas experience different speeds, and modern buildings offer faster speeds than old housing. While urban residents benefit from all the options, the selection is much more limited for the rural population. Basic offers start at around €30 per month (DSL) and may vary depending on your region. Often, tenants have to compromise with the internet connection chosen by the owner of the house, so make sure you speak with them about any issues you may experience, especially if the cost of the internet is included in your rental. Attention: Just like everywhere in the EU, downloading content from pirated websites is considered illegal. Be careful, especially if you download torrents in your country, as you will risk getting a fine.Read also Accommodation in Germany Getting connected in GermanyIf you already have a telephone line, internet connection procedures should not take long. Otherwise, just visit any branch of your preferred internet service provider with your identification documents and proof of address. Fees may apply, and depending on the operator, it may take up to two weeks to be connected. If you also subscribe to TV, you need to register for a broadcasting license at GEZ. Similarly, before you leave the country, you must cancel your license. By law, every household is obliged to pay a fee for public radio (whether you use it or not) and an additional fee for using the TV. The main criterion for the charges is owning a TV (and if not, you will have to prove otherwise), and fines apply for those not complying. Note that clerks may pay you a random visit during spot checks.Free WiFi in GermanyFree WiFi (or WLAN in German) can still be difficult to find. Until recently, the WiFi operator risked being liable if a user committed an offense such as downloading music illegally, which prevented most coffee shops and restaurants from offering free WiFi to their customers. Most bus and train stations, as well as restaurants, pubs, or airports, offer internet access through “hotspots” (marked with a blue icon), but you have to pay for internet usage that exceeds 30 minutes. Good to know: To log into WiFi hotspots of Deutsche Bahn, activate the WiFi option on your device (smartphone or tablet), choose the Telekom network, open your browser, and enter your mobile phone number on the home page. An access code will be sent to you via SMS. You can then enter the code and enjoy 30 minutes of free WiFi. For more information, visit the . Useful links:We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.About Charlotte is an English copywriter, currently living in Berlin. After studying German at University, she moved to Frankfurt to teach English before moving on to the capital. 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It is ...The work culture in BerlinWhen starting out in a new city, it's really important to understand the work culture before your first day at ...Discover moreFind more topics on the Germany forum Ask your question Choose the best Protect your health and get easy access to treatment for expats in Germany.Plan your Facilitate your move to Germany by getting a quote from our top rated movers.Open a that suits youDiscover the best international banks to manage your money securely.Plan your Plan your retirement income with the advice of an expert.CompanyEssentialsLearn moreConnect with us© 2025 Expat.com, All rights Reserved, internet小写代表互联网,Internet大写代表因特网。 以小写字母i开始的internet(互联网或互连网)是一个通用名词,它泛指多个计算机网络互连而组成的网络,在这些网络之间的通信协议(即通信规则)可以是任意的。, Discover the intricacies of staying connected in Germany, from broadband speed variations to available internet providers. Learn about the types of internet connections, major network operators, and .