Internet Access in Afghanistan: A Comprehensive Overview
Afghanistan’s internet infrastructure is relatively underdeveloped, relying heavily on mobile networks and limited fixed broadband. After 2001, the country had to build its telecom network from scratch, as the previous Taliban regime had effectively banned the internet Wired. In the two decades that followed, mobile telecommunications saw rapid growth – rising from zero subscribers in 2001 to nearly a 100% mobile subscription penetration by 2021 Businesswire. A nationwide fiber-optic backbone was being rolled out and even a 400 km cross-border fiber link to China was near completion in 2021 Businesswire. However, the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021 stalled or halted many of these projects Businesswire Businesswire, casting uncertainty on the finalization of the fiber network. Major service providers in Afghanistan include a mix of state-run and private mobile operators that also serve as the primary ISPs. The key players are: