Mexico – Internet

Who are the major internet service providers in Mexico?

Mexico’s broadband market is shaped by a combination of legacy telephone operators, cable companies, newer fibre entrants, mobile network operators, and a growing number of virtual providers. The fixed broadband segment is dominated by four principal players, complemented by a selection of regional ISPs and satellite services.

Telmex (Infinitum) — As the country’s original telephone monopoly, Telmex remains the single largest fixed broadband provider, with around 11.2 million subscribers representing approximately 40% of the market as of Q4 2024. The company offers both DSL and fibre services under its Infinitum brand. Having lost ground to competitors over several years, Telmex has responded with aggressive fibre investment and price freezes aimed at recapturing customers. Plans and coverage can be explored at telmex.com.

Izzi Telecom (Televisa Cable) — The telecoms division of Grupo Televisa encompasses Izzi, Cablevisión, Cablemás, and related brands, making it the second-largest fixed broadband operator with roughly 5.7–6 million subscribers and around 20–22% market share. Its service primarily runs over cable modem technology (DOCSIS 3.1 over HFC networks) across dozens of cities, while fibre is being extended into newer residential developments. In rural areas, satellite broadband is offered through the Sky subsidiary in cooperation with HughesNet. Current plans are listed at izzi.mx.

Megacable — This Guadalajara-based cable operator has expanded rapidly, reaching 5.31 million internet subscribers by Q4 2024 — growth of approximately 12% over that year — giving it roughly 19% of the market. Megacable operates an established HFC network supporting both DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1, and has more recently begun laying fibre-to-the-home infrastructure alongside its existing cable network. Details on plans can be found at megacable.com.mx.

Totalplay — A relatively recent entrant with a fibre-to-the-home focus, Totalplay has distinguished itself as Mexico’s quality leader across four of the five main broadband performance metrics. Most notably, it achieves a Consistent Quality score of 76.6% — a lead of around ten percentage points over its closest rivals. Totalplay also tops the rankings for download speed with an average of 53.9 Mbps and peak download of 276.9 Mbps, placing it well ahead of both Megacable and Telmex. Available plans can be reviewed at totalplay.com.mx.

Satellite providers — Satellite internet plays a vital role for users in underserved rural locations. Starlink (SpaceX) has achieved rapid uptake across Mexico; in November 2023, the Mexican government announced an $89.8 million contract with Starlink to deliver free internet access to poorly connected communities through 2026. HughesNet also operates in Mexico, partly through Sky’s rural offering. For current equipment costs and subscription pricing in Mexico, consult the Starlink website directly.

Other operators worth noting include Axtel, which focuses on business and residential fibre services, and CFE Telecomunicaciones — the telecoms arm of the state electricity utility — which launched in 2022 under the banner “Internet para Todos” (CFE TEIT) with a mandate to bring affordable connectivity to remote communities. Always verify coverage at your precise address using provider maps before committing to a plan.

What types of internet connection are available in Mexico?

Mexico’s broadband sector is undergoing considerable modernisation, with the range of available technologies shifting rapidly. The connection type accessible to you depends largely on where in the country you are based.

Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) delivers the fastest and most dependable service and is increasingly available across Mexico’s major urban areas. Telmex has been progressively overlaying its copper network with fibre-optic lines, having already converted a substantial portion of its infrastructure, with further rollout continuing. Totalplay’s network is built predominantly on FTTH. That said, Mexico’s fibre coverage remains concentrated in cities and differs markedly from markets such as South Korea or Japan, where fibre penetration exceeds 85% of the population — though the pace of expansion here is accelerating.

Cable (HFC/DOCSIS) is available widely across cities and many suburban neighbourhoods. Izzi and Megacable both operate extensive cable networks supporting their pay-TV infrastructure, with deployments of DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1 technologies. Cable represents a dependable alternative in areas where FTTH has yet to arrive and is capable of delivering speeds reaching several hundred Mbps on DOCSIS 3.1.

DSL continues to be offered by Telmex in locations that fibre upgrades have not yet reached, including smaller towns and older residential districts. Speeds are more constrained than those available through cable or fibre, and performance can diminish with greater distance from the local telephone exchange. Much like the transitional network landscape seen across parts of southern Europe, DSL in Mexico coexists with newer technologies as the country gradually modernises.

4G/5G home broadband offers a viable solution in both urban and rural settings. A key outcome of Mexico’s 2013 Telecommunications Reform was the creation of the Red Compartida (Shared Network), a wholesale 4G LTE network launched in 2018 and operated by Altán Redes. Running on the 700 MHz band, this network reached 95.3% of the population by June 2024, surpassing its 92.2% target. For households with poor or unavailable fixed-line options, 4G/5G routers can serve as a practical primary connection.

Satellite has become an increasingly realistic option for rural and remote locations. SpaceX’s Starlink service is available throughout Mexico — the company registered its broadband operations locally as Starlink Satellite Systems México and holds authorisation from the Federal Telecommunications Institute (IFT) to provide nationwide coverage. While satellite connections typically carry higher latency and cost compared to ground-based alternatives, they offer a genuine option in areas where no other service exists.

How fast and reliable is the internet in Mexico?

According to Ookla Speedtest figures from August 2024, Mexico’s median mobile download speed stood at 32.55 Mbps, while the median fixed broadband download speed came in just below 80 Mbps. These results place Mexico in a mid-tier position globally — sufficient for the majority of everyday tasks including video calls and streaming, yet trailing the world’s fastest broadband markets. For the most current national ranking, consult the Ookla Speedtest Global Index.

As of 2024, 5G coverage in Mexico extended to 45.76% of the population, while at least 97.4% of inhabitants had access to 4G mobile internet. This broad 4G footprint means that mobile internet serves as a dependable fallback across most of the country.

Performance varies considerably depending on location and provider. In 2025, Totalplay reported the fastest broadband speeds in Mexico, with an average download of 146.1 Mbps and upload of 106.8 Mbps, along with the lowest recorded ping of 27 milliseconds. In Mexico City specifically, average broadband download speeds sit around 99.5 Mbps, with uploads of roughly 65.9 Mbps and average latency of 40 ms.

A substantial digital divide persists between well-served urban centres and underconnected rural communities. If you intend to settle outside the major cities — particularly in mountainous or coastal areas — it is well worth researching connectivity thoroughly before signing a lease or purchasing property. Starlink and other satellite options are worth factoring in as both a primary and backup solution in such locations.

Reliability is another consideration. Power outages occur more frequently in certain regions of Mexico than in northern European countries, and even a brief electricity interruption can disrupt an otherwise solid broadband connection. Many expats who work from home choose to invest in an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to protect their router and connected equipment during these events.

How do I get an internet connection set up in Mexico?

Setting up a home internet connection in Mexico is a reasonably accessible process, though foreign nationals should be prepared for a few additional steps around documentation. The following is a complete guide to what you can expect:

1. Research providers in your area. Begin by confirming which providers serve your specific address — most ISPs publish interactive coverage maps on their websites. Telmex, Izzi, Megacable, and Totalplay all offer online address or postcode checkers. Availability can differ significantly from one neighbourhood to the next, even within the same city.
2. Choose a package. Select the provider and plan that best aligns with your requirements, taking into account speed, reliability, and price. Entry-level plans typically offer 20–50 Mbps, while higher-tier fibre packages can provide 200 Mbps or more. Contracts of 12 or 18 months are standard, though some providers offer rolling monthly arrangements at a modest premium.
3. Gather your documents. Setting up an account requires personal information including your full name, address, and phone number, as well as proof of identity such as a passport or ID card. As a foreign resident, you will generally also need your Mexican residency card (tarjeta de residencia) or, if still in the early stages, current visa documentation. Some providers additionally request proof of address in the form of a recent utility bill or rental agreement.
4. Contact the provider and sign the contract. Registration can be completed online, by telephone, or in person at a provider branch or retail outlet. Contracts are issued in Spanish, so if you are not yet comfortable reading the language, it is advisable to have a trusted contact or translation tool assist you. Take time to review contract duration, early exit penalties, and any automatic renewal terms before signing.
5. Pay any upfront costs. Most ISPs collect a deposit before scheduling installation, with the amount varying by provider and plan. Installation or activation fees may also be charged. Request an itemised breakdown of all initial costs before agreeing to proceed.
6. Schedule installation. Following payment, the ISP will book a technician to carry out the installation. In major cities, this typically happens within three to seven business days. In smaller towns or rural areas, lead times may be longer, so factor this into your planning if you need connectivity quickly.
7. Go live and set up your equipment. Once the technician has completed the installation, the connection will be activated and you will be provided with login credentials and setup instructions. Most providers supply a router — either included in the monthly fee or available for a small rental charge. If you prefer to use your own router, check with the provider in advance to confirm compatibility.

A practical tip for newcomers: a local Mexican mobile phone number is routinely expected when opening a residential broadband account, as it is used for appointment confirmations and account management. Obtaining a prepaid SIM before applying for home broadband will simplify this step considerably. A Mexican bank account is also useful for setting up direct debit payments, though most providers also accept credit or debit card transactions.

Can I get internet access before my permanent connection is installed in Mexico?

Several practical solutions exist for staying connected while your fixed broadband is being arranged. Most newcomers find that a combination of a local SIM card and café or co-working Wi-Fi meets their needs comfortably during the transition period.

Prepaid SIM cards are widely available and simple to obtain. Mexico’s four primary mobile data providers — Telcel, AT&T Mexico, Movistar, and Altán Redes — are joined by smaller players such as Virgin Mobile and Flash Mobile. SIM cards can be picked up at airports, OXXO convenience stores (which are found throughout the country), supermarkets, and mobile operator outlets. A passport is usually required for registration. Telcel offers the widest national network coverage and is the most popular choice for dependable data access across the country.

eSIMs represent a growing and particularly convenient alternative, especially for those arriving without a local physical SIM. Rather than a removable card, an eSIM is embedded in the device itself, allowing multiple operator profiles to be managed via software. You purchase a data plan and activate it through the provider’s app, making the whole process quick and straightforward. Several international eSIM services offer Mexico data packages that can be purchased and configured before you even board your flight.

Portable Wi-Fi (pocket Wi-Fi) devices are available for rent or purchase in Mexico’s main cities and tourist destinations, providing a mobile hotspot using the local 4G network. These can be particularly useful if you need simultaneous connectivity across multiple devices while on the move.

Public Wi-Fi is readily accessible in coffee shops, restaurants, shopping centres, and co-working spaces, with particularly strong availability in Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, and popular expat destinations such as Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende, and the Riviera Maya corridor. The growth of co-working spaces across these locations means remote workers waiting on home broadband installation have reliable and fast alternatives, accessible on a day-pass or monthly basis.

In urban areas, 4G and 5G coverage is extensive. However, rural zones are served by fewer users and correspondingly less infrastructure. If you are relocating to a more remote part of the country, it is important to plan your temporary connectivity arrangements ahead of time rather than assuming mobile data alone will be sufficient.

What does internet service typically cost in Mexico?

Internet services in Mexico are broadly affordable by international standards, though prices differ according to provider, connection technology, and location. The figures below are indicative — always check provider websites for current pricing, as rates and promotional offers change regularly.

Fixed residential broadband — Entry-level packages delivering 20–50 Mbps typically start at around 350–500 Mexican pesos (MXN) per month as of 2024–2025. Mid-range plans offering 100–200 Mbps via cable or fibre generally fall in the 500–700 MXN range. Higher-speed fibre tiers can reach 900–1,200 MXN per month or above, depending on provider and speed. According to Cable.co.uk data, the average monthly cost of a broadband connection in Mexico is approximately 533 pesos. It is worth checking current promotional offers from Telmex, Izzi, Megacable, and Totalplay, all of which frequently advertise introductory rates, bundled discounts with TV or telephone, and loyalty incentives.

Installation and activation fees are standard practice and typically range from nothing (during promotional windows) to several hundred pesos. Router or modem rental may be built into the monthly fee or billed separately at around 50–150 MXN per month. Some providers allow customers to supply their own compatible equipment and avoid ongoing rental charges.

Satellite broadband carries a higher price point. Starlink hardware in Mexico starts at around 5,900 pesos, with a monthly subscription beginning at approximately 1,045 pesos — roughly double the cost of a standard fixed-line package. As pricing for equipment and subscriptions is subject to change, always verify the latest figures directly on the Starlink website.

Mobile data (prepaid) — Prepaid offerings from Telcel and AT&T Mexico range from roughly 50 MXN for a few gigabytes up to several hundred pesos for larger monthly bundles. CFE TEIT’s “Internet para el Bienestar” mobile packages are priced between 50 pesos (approximately $2.88) for 3 GB over 7 days and 230 pesos (approximately $13.25) for 40 GB. Postpaid mobile plans inclusive of data generally begin at around 200–350 MXN per month and scale upward with data capacity.

For the most accurate and current pricing, visit official provider websites and the IFT website, which publishes comparative market information on service costs. All prices cited here reflect 2024–2025 data and should be confirmed before making any financial decisions.

Are there any restrictions or censorship affecting internet use in Mexico?

Mexico stands among the minority of Latin American nations that maintain little to no internet censorship. The country’s legal framework enshrines freedom of speech and of the press, and these protections are generally observed in practice. There are no government-imposed restrictions on internet access and no credible evidence of state surveillance of private email or online communications. Global platforms and services — including Google, YouTube, social networks, messaging applications, and streaming services — are all freely accessible.

VPNs are entirely legal in Mexico and are used widely by both individuals and businesses. There are no bans, registration requirements, or usage restrictions on VPN services — a contrast to more tightly controlled digital environments found elsewhere in the world.

There are, however, some contextual factors worth understanding. Threats and violence directed at journalists, bloggers, and media organisations — particularly those covering drug trafficking — have led to widespread self-censorship among the press and among certain content creators. This is a societal dynamic rather than a government-enforced technical limitation, but expats working in media or public-facing content roles should be aware of this broader environment.

Another consideration relates to zero-rating. Carriers such as Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T offer plans that exempt certain services — including HBO, Netflix, WhatsApp, and social networks — from data consumption. While this can appear beneficial, it may subtly advantage specific platforms over others on mobile plans. If you depend on a broad array of online services, ensure your plan provides adequate general data rather than relying mainly on zero-rated allowances.

For the vast majority of expats, internet freedom in Mexico will not be a concern. The overall experience is broadly consistent with the open-access environment found across much of Latin America and Western Europe.

What should I know about mobile data and SIM cards in Mexico?

Mexico’s mobile market is served by four primary operators: Telcel, AT&T Mexico, Movistar, and Altán Redes. Coverage is extensive in urban areas, with both 4G and 5G available across major cities. Telcel, a subsidiary of América Móvil, commands a dominant position with roughly 57% market share, which translates into the broadest geographic coverage anywhere in the country. For newcomers — particularly those settling outside major metropolitan areas — Telcel is typically the most practical starting point.

SIM card registration — Purchasing a SIM card in Mexico requires you to present identification. Foreign nationals should bring their passport, which is the standard accepted document. Registration is handled at the point of sale and is generally a quick and straightforward process. Physical SIM cards are sold at network operator stores, OXXO convenience outlets, airports, and electronics retailers.

eSIMs — Leading Mexican operators including Telcel and AT&T Mexico offer eSIM support on compatible devices as of 2024–2025. This enables you to activate a local plan without inserting a physical SIM card, which is especially convenient upon arrival. The activation process differs by device and provider, so check the relevant operator’s website for step-by-step instructions.

5G availability — Mobile internet penetration has grown steadily, with more than 121 million subscriptions recorded by the IFT in September 2023. According to IFT data from that month, 4G technology accounted for 83% of all mobile internet traffic in Mexico. While Mexico has emerged as one of the more advanced 5G adopters among Latin American countries, 5G connections still represent a comparatively small share of total mobile traffic and are currently concentrated in major cities.

International roaming — Visitors arriving from countries whose carriers have roaming agreements with Mexican networks may find that using their existing SIM is workable for the first day or two. However, roaming charges can accumulate rapidly, and switching to a local prepaid SIM or activating a Mexican eSIM plan is almost always far more economical for any stay beyond a few days. Review your home carrier’s roaming rates and data policies carefully before relying on a foreign SIM in Mexico.

Who regulates internet and telecoms services in Mexico?

Mexico’s telecommunications sector has historically been overseen by the Federal Telecommunications Institute (IFT), an independent body charged with allocating spectrum, fostering competition, protecting consumers, and setting regulatory standards across the telecoms and broadcasting industries. The IFT has also played a central role in efforts to curb the market dominance of América Móvil.

However, the regulatory environment is currently in a state of transition. In late 2024, the outgoing administration passed a constitutional reform to dismantle the IFT along with other autonomous oversight bodies. This change, due to take effect in 2025, has been contentious — proponents argue it will improve government efficiency and reduce administrative costs, while critics contend it risks eroding the independent checks that have kept competition policy and consumer protection on course. The direction of travel suggests Mexico may be moving away from a technocratic, independent regulatory model toward a more centralised approach. Expats should keep an eye on how this evolves, particularly regarding its potential implications for consumer rights and market competition.

For now, the IFT’s official website remains the primary resource for regulatory information, coverage statistics, and consumer guidance. It can be accessed at ift.org.mx. The Institute publishes data on service providers, network performance, and market pricing — all of which are useful when evaluating providers or understanding your rights as a subscriber.

If you encounter problems with your internet provider — whether billing errors, speeds consistently below those advertised, or contract disputes — complaints can be submitted to the IFT or through Mexico’s consumer protection agency, PROFECO (gob.mx/profeco). Both bodies handle telecommunications disputes, and online complaint submission is possible even for those not yet proficient in Spanish.

The transformative 2013 Telecommunications Reform opened the sector to greater competition and established the IFT as an independent watchdog, driving substantial infrastructure investment and the gradual erosion of monopoly pricing. The effects have been broadly positive for consumers over the past decade, leaving the market significantly more competitive than it was fifteen years ago.

Frequently asked questions

Is it easy to get internet set up as a foreigner in Mexico?

The process is generally manageable, though it does involve Spanish-language contracts and certain documentation requirements. You will typically need to provide a passport or residency card, proof of address (such as a rental agreement or utility bill), and a local Mexican mobile number for scheduling and account verification. Having all of these ready before you apply will make things considerably smoother. The major providers — Telmex, Izzi, Megacable, and Totalplay — all accept foreign nationals as customers.

Do I need a permanent residency card to get home broadband in Mexico?

Not necessarily. A number of providers will accept a valid passport combined with a rental contract as adequate identification, particularly for those on temporary residency status. That said, requirements differ between providers, and some may specifically request a Mexican residency card (tarjeta de residencia). If your residency application is still in progress, bring all available documentation and confirm what is accepted before visiting a provider’s office.

Which internet provider has the best coverage in Mexico?

This depends on your location. Telmex (Infinitum) has the most extensive nationwide infrastructure, making it the most reliably available option in areas outside major cities. In urban settings, Totalplay and Megacable often deliver faster and more consistent fibre and cable connections respectively, while Izzi offers solid coverage across many mid-sized cities. Use the address or postcode checker on each provider’s website to confirm what is actually available at your specific address before selecting a plan.

How fast is home broadband in Mexico compared to other countries?

Ookla Speedtest data from August 2024 places Mexico’s median fixed broadband download speed at just under 80 Mbps — adequate for most household uses, but below the fastest broadband markets globally. In major cities with fibre infrastructure, actual speeds can be substantially higher. In 2025, Totalplay recorded the fastest average download speed in Mexico at 146.1 Mbps. Rural areas may experience considerably slower performance depending on the available connection type.

Can I use a VPN in Mexico?

Yes. VPNs are entirely legal and freely available in Mexico, with no government bans or registration requirements in place. Both personal and professional use of VPN services is widespread, and all major providers operate without restriction in the country. Using a VPN is legally straightforward, though it is worth noting that connection speeds may be somewhat reduced when routing traffic through a VPN server.

What is the best way to get mobile data quickly on arrival in Mexico?

The most immediate option is to purchase a prepaid SIM at the airport on arrival — Telcel, AT&T Mexico, and Movistar all have a presence there, and OXXO convenience stores located near virtually every major airport also carry SIM cards. Another option is to set up an eSIM before you travel: a number of international eSIM providers offer Mexico data plans that can be purchased and configured in advance and activated as soon as you land. For the broadest network reach across the country, Telcel is the recommended choice.

Is satellite internet a practical option in Mexico?

Yes, particularly for those living in rural or remote areas where cable or fibre connectivity is unavailable. Starlink is the leading satellite option, available throughout Mexico with download speeds of up to 200 Mbps. Hardware starts at around 5,900 pesos and the monthly subscription begins at approximately 1,045 pesos. Always check the Starlink website for the most current equipment and subscription pricing in Mexico, as these figures are subject to change. HughesNet (via Sky) offers an older geostationary alternative with lower speeds but a long-established rural footprint. While satellite is more costly than ground-based broadband, it can be the only viable option in areas with no other service.

Where can I compare internet providers and check coverage in Mexico?

The official websites of the major providers — Telmex, Izzi, Megacable, and Totalplay — are the best starting point, as each includes a coverage checker based on your postcode or address. The IFT website (ift.org.mx) also publishes comparative market data and coverage statistics across providers. For independent performance benchmarks, both the Ookla Speedtest Global Index and Opensignal offer up-to-date speed and quality data broken down by provider in Mexico.