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Pakistan Ranks Among Slowest Globally for Internet Speeds
Pakistan ranks 100th in mobile and 141st in broadband internet speeds globally, amid ongoing connectivity issues and VPN restrictions.
ND
by News Desk
2024-12-09
Pakistan Ranks Among Slowest Globally for Internet Speeds

Pakistan was ranked among the lowest 12 percent globally for mobile and broadband internet speeds in October 2024, according to Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index. The index placed the country at 100th out of 111 countries for mobile internet speeds and 141st out of 158 for broadband speeds.

Pakistani internet users have reported sluggish connectivity, difficulty downloading media on platforms like WhatsApp, and frequent disruptions. The mean download speed in Pakistan stood at 7.85 Mbps, with median mobile and broadband download speeds recorded at 19.59 Mbps and 15.52 Mbps, respectively, as per data from the World Population Review.

Internet Slowdowns and Alleged Firewall

The country has faced frequent internet disruptions, raising concerns about restricted access to virtual private networks (VPNs), which many Pakistanis rely on to access websites like X (formerly Twitter).

Speculation about a government-installed “firewall” to enhance cyber security gained traction earlier this year. While Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja confirmed the government was upgrading its web management system, she dismissed claims of intentional slowdowns as exaggerated.

Amnesty International has called for transparency from Pakistani authorities, emphasizing concerns over the use of surveillance technologies to block or slow internet access. In response, Khawaja stated, “There is nothing controversial about a country working on its cyber security,” adding that Pakistan faces millions of daily cyberattacks.

VPN Controversy

The government’s handling of VPN access has added another layer to the digital landscape. Last month, the interior ministry recommended a ban on unregistered VPNs, citing their alleged misuse by terrorists and access to restricted content.

However, technical glitches and inconsistent policy enforcement have led to confusion. PTA urged citizens to register VPNs by November 30 to avoid being blocked but has denied intentional restrictions.

Earlier this month, sources revealed that the interior ministry withdrew its request to ban VPNs, citing weak legal grounds under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016.

Call for Digital Reforms

The slow internet speeds and controversies surrounding access restrictions have drawn criticism from digital rights groups. Experts argue that a robust digital infrastructure is essential for Pakistan to compete in a globalized world.

The government faces mounting pressure to address connectivity issues, improve transparency in cyber policies, and invest in upgrading digital infrastructure to meet the needs of its growing population.
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