How many people have broadband?

There are approximately 17.2 fixed broadband subscriptions per 100 people globally.

Which country has the best broadband?

Switzerland leads at 48 per 100 people, followed by France (46) and South Korea (44).

Global Average Broadband Penetration

Last updated: February 16, 2026

17.2

per 100 people

Global fixed broadband penetration is approximately 17.2 subscriptions per 100 people. Switzerland leads at 48, France at 46, and South Korea at 44. Many African nations have under 1 per 100. Fiber connections now account for 63% of global fixed broadband.

Historical Trend

Source: ITU

Global Average Broadband Penetration by Country

Country	Value (per 100 people) ↓	Source
Switzerland	48	OFCOM CH
France	46	ARCEP
South Korea	44	MSIT
Germany	43	BNetzA
Netherlands	43	ACM
United Kingdom	40	Ofcom
Canada	38	CRTC
China	38	MIIT
United States	37	FCC
Japan	36	MIC
Australia	34	ACMA
Russia	23	Mintsifry
Saudi Arabia	22	CITC
Brazil	20	Anatel
India	2	TRAI
Pakistan	1	PTA
Nigeria	0.5	NCC

Why This Average Exists

Broadband access is increasingly viewed as essential infrastructure for economic participation, education, healthcare, and social inclusion in the digital age.

Factors That Affect Global Average Broadband Penetration

Infrastructure investment
Population density
Geography
Government policy
Competition
Affordability

Frequently Asked Questions

Methodology & Data Sources

The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.

Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2024–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.

All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.