Internet providers in Switzerland
As of 2023, 97 percent of the Swiss population has access to the internet, enjoying some of the fastest connections in Europe, with speeds ranging from 5 Mbit/s to 25.000 Mbit/s a second. When you are looking for an apartment or house in Switzerland, it can be important to know what quality of broadband is available to you and at what cost.
Choosing a new internet package in Switzerland is a simple process that can be done entirely online, although it is always good to check in-store for special offers and freebies. Some rental contracts also offer a specific internet package or will allow new tenants to switch to the old tenants’ package when they change address. Here is what you need to know about packages and internet providers in Switzerland.
Internet providers in Switzerland
Switzerland has a system of registered and authorised internet providers that provide excellent service. Most companies are still tied to a broadband, TV and telephone package system, but some do provide internet on its own. Unlike with other utilities in Switzerland, you are able to freely choose any internet provider you like:
Internet price comparison sites
Before signing a contract with anyone, it's a good idea to use a comparison site to compare offers from different internet providers. We recommend:
Changing your internet provider in Switzerland
Typically, internet providers offer their deals as part of a formal contract. This means that you must wait out the contact duration before being able to switch providers.
Even if you are not under contract, your internet provider will most likely operate a notice period for cancelling and switching to a new provider.
If you attempt to switch providers before the official end of the contract, you may incur a significant cancellation cost or transfer fee. Overall, it is recommended to remain on your current contract for the duration agreed upon before switching.
How fast is the internet in Switzerland?
Overall, much of the internet system in Switzerland still relies on either cable connections or connections through dial-up, and so speeds can be variable depending on where you are located. Cities in Switzerland have started a push to adopt a high-speed, fibre-optic DSL connections, with cities like Zurich having an entirely fiber-optic network.
The decision to upgrade internet connections is done via referendum in your local council (Gemeinde), and it is not rare to find communities rejecting plans to upgrade. Please consult your internet company to find out what speed options are possible in your area.