Top 10 Internet Providers in Nigeria

The internet today is a universal entity and phenomenon which has helped people have a feel of fresh awakening of activities, issues, events, and even the economy. Not only does it help to connect servers, websites, and electronic devices, but it also plays a huge role in the different industries it can be used in.

For instance, in the education industry, the internet can be used to access online lessons or tutorials and conduct school related research. In the entertainment industry, it can be used to listen to music online, to watch movies or videos or even to play only online games. In the world of communication, its role as a tool for sharing of messages, files or even documents cannot be overemphasized.

This goes to show you the important role the internet plays in our everyday life, and this is why in this article we’ll be providing a list of the top 10 internet providers in Nigeria.

So without much ado, here are the top 10 best internet providers in Nigeria in no particular order:

Starlink

Starlink is an satellite internet service that is made available by SpaceX, a company owned by popular American billionaire, Elon Musk. Although this internet provider is not Nigerian based, its services extends to people living in the country.

For game lovers, Starlink’s latency which range from 10mbps to 61.5mbps is seen as ideal and a good option for a lag-free gaming experience. Starlink’s internet download speed is also amazing. Depending on the congestion of networks or a user’s location, it can range from 50Mbps to as high as 150Mbps.

The only downside to Starlink as an internet provider is the fact that setting it up is expensive and not everyone might be able to afford it.

Airtel

When it comes to providing telecommunications and internet services, Airtel is one of the most popular in Nigeria.

For Nigerians who like a smooth experience when streaming high definition contents online, Airtel seems to be a good choice. Whether it is a TV show, a movie or a regular video you are watching, you are less likely to experience excessive buffering with Airtel internet service even during times of networks congestion.

One disadvantage of Airtel is what its customer support is not swift to provide solutions to customers whenever they are experiencing speed-related issues.

SMILE

Over the years, SMILE has emerged as one of the most reliable internet service providers in Nigeria

With SMILE’s fast internet speed you can download media contents, large files and even update softwares on your device within a reasonable timeframe. This is something some other internet providers in Nigeria are nọr able to offer to their customers.

One challenge with SMILE, however, is that users tend to witness poor network connection when the maximum number of people are connected to a SMILE network connection at the same time.

SPECTRANET

SPECTRANET is one of the few internet providers that have been in existence in Nigeria for quite some time now. For SPECTRANET users, downloading of updating of softwares and downloading of large files is a common task. This is as a result of its fast internet speed.

Not only that, for internet users who like to spend a lot of time on streaming platforms like Twitch, YouTube or even Netflix, SPECTRANET is a sure bet. This is because its internet connection is robust and easily prevents interruptions for people who stream one video or the other online.

MTN

Just like Airtel, MTN is a telecommunications service providers that is also renowned for its internet services.

When it comes ro enjoying a smooth online gaming experience, a fast internet connection is key. The same applies thing applies when it comes to streaming a high quality video or downloading multiple large files. All of this have been made possible for customers to enjoy by MTN since its introduction of the 4G and 5G networks.

GLO

GLO is another telecommunications and internet service provider in this list. One known fact about GLO’s internet service is that its connection speed varies with the type of data plan purchased by its customers. For instance, people who purchase premium data plans seem to enjoy faster internet speed than those who do not purchase them.

One disadvantage of GLO is delay by its customer support in addressing network related issues. This delay usually leads to customers getting frustrated and submitting bad reviews about the company.

VDT

VDT is known for using Fibre Optic and Wireless Communication infrastructure to provide both Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN) to its customers. This licensed private service provider mostly offers communication and internet services to corporate organizations in the 36 different states in Nigeria.

Presently, VDT has over 7,000 active subscribers and over 12,000 connected subscribers.

Cyberspace Network

Cyberspace Network happens to be one of the few internet service providers on this list that has been in existence for a while now. Although it started as a network solution provider, over the years, Cyberspace Network has evolved to developing software solutions and providing internet connectivity.

Cyberspace Network currently has over 4,000 connected subscribers, all of which are also active subscribers of the network. It also boasts of over 130 Points of Presence which it uses to provide services to its customers.

Inq. Digital Nigeria Ltd

Formerly known as Vodacom, Inq. works hand in hand with Internet Service Providers to make available POP to POP connections to their users/customers. It is also popularly known for its “Lagos-Metro internet service,” a type of internet service that provides high capacity bandwidth with reliability and speed to people in Lagos who need internet connection to manage their day-to-day businesses.

Astramix Limited

Astramix Limited is known to provide data and internet broadband that is both reliable and fast. The provision of this service is made possible through its first-class communication technology.

Astramix Limited currently has 5 Points of Presence as well as over 15,000 connected users and over 10,000 actively connected users.

20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Internet Providers in Nigeria

1. What are the best internet providers in Nigeria?

Nigeria has several internet service providers (ISPs), including MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile, Spectranet, Swift, and Smile. While mobile networks like MTN and Airtel provide nationwide coverage, broadband ISPs such as Spectranet and Smile specialize in high-speed internet in major cities.

2. Which internet provider offers the fastest speed in Nigeria?

MTN and Airtel generally provide the fastest mobile internet speeds, especially with their 4G and 5G networks. For home broadband, Spectranet and Smile offer high-speed internet with unlimited and capped data plans. Fiber-optic providers like IPNX and Tizeti are also gaining traction for speed and reliability.

3. What is the most affordable internet provider in Nigeria?

Glo is known for offering the cheapest mobile data plans, though coverage and speed may vary. Spectranet and Tizeti provide cost-effective broadband plans, while MTN and Airtel often have promo bundles for affordability.

4. Does Nigeria have 5G internet?

Yes, 5G internet is available in Nigeria. MTN was the first provider to launch 5G, followed by Airtel. The technology offers faster speeds, lower latency, and improved connectivity, though coverage is still expanding.

5. Which provider offers the best unlimited data plans?

Spectranet, Smile, and Tizeti provide some of the best unlimited broadband plans. MTN and Airtel also have “unlimited” data packages, though they may come with fair usage policies that reduce speeds after a threshold.

6. What is the best internet provider for businesses in Nigeria?

For businesses, fiber-optic providers like MainOne, IPNX, and Tizeti offer dedicated broadband solutions with high speeds and stability. MTN and Airtel also provide enterprise-grade data solutions for corporate users.

7. How do I check internet coverage in my area?

Most ISPs have coverage maps on their websites. You can also check by inserting a SIM card into your phone and testing network speed, or by asking neighbors about their experience with specific providers.

8. Which is better, fiber-optic or wireless broadband?

Fiber-optic internet, offered by providers like IPNX and Tizeti, is faster and more reliable but has limited availability. Wireless broadband, such as 4G/5G from MTN and Airtel or fixed LTE from Spectranet, offers flexibility but may suffer from congestion.

9. How much does home broadband cost in Nigeria?

Home broadband plans vary widely. Spectranet and Smile offer packages from ₦10,000 to ₦30,000 per month, while fiber-optic services may cost ₦20,000 to ₦50,000 depending on speed and data limits.

10. Which ISP is best for online gaming and streaming?

Low-latency internet is crucial for gaming and streaming. MTN 5G, Airtel 5G, and fiber-optic providers like IPNX and Tizeti offer the best experience, as they provide high speeds and stable connections.

11. Can I get fiber-optic internet anywhere in Nigeria?

No, fiber-optic internet is mainly available in major cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. Providers like IPNX, MainOne, and Tizeti are gradually expanding their coverage.

12. How do I switch internet providers in Nigeria?

To switch providers, check coverage, compare plans, and ensure your location supports the new ISP. You may need to buy a new router or modem, and in some cases, pay for installation.

13. What are the typical internet speeds in Nigeria?

Speeds vary based on the provider and location. Mobile networks offer speeds between 5Mbps and 150Mbps, while fiber-optic providers can deliver up to 1Gbps. 5G services offer even higher speeds in supported areas.

14. Is free Wi-Fi available in Nigeria?

Yes, some locations offer free public Wi-Fi, such as airports, cafes, and hotels. Tizeti’s “Wifi.com.ng” provides hotspots in Lagos and other cities. However, free Wi-Fi is often slow and insecure.

15. How reliable are Nigerian ISPs?

Reliability depends on the provider and location. Fiber-optic ISPs generally offer more stable connections, while mobile networks may suffer from congestion and weather-related disruptions.

16. What is the best internet provider for rural areas?

MTN and Airtel have the widest coverage in rural areas, making them the best options. Starlink, a satellite internet provider, is also an alternative for remote locations but is expensive.

17. Can I use Starlink internet in Nigeria?

Yes, Starlink is available in Nigeria and offers high-speed internet via satellite. It is ideal for remote areas but comes with high setup costs and monthly fees.

18. How do I reduce my internet costs in Nigeria?

To save costs, use data-saving features, take advantage of night plans, subscribe to family or shared data plans, and monitor usage to avoid excessive charges.

19. Which provider is best for smart homes and IoT?

Fiber-optic ISPs and 5G networks provide the best speeds and stability for smart home devices. MTN 5G and Airtel 5G are leading choices for IoT applications.

20. What should I consider before choosing an internet provider in Nigeria?

Key factors include coverage, speed, reliability, cost, data limits, and customer service. It’s best to check reviews and test the network in your area before subscribing.

Conclusion

There you have it. A compilation of the top 10 internet providers in Nigeria

While some of these internet providers might be better than their counterpart in certain aspects, your choice when picking any of them should be based on the quality of internet service you need and how much you can spend for it.

Tools:

Pin1

1 Shares