Singapore – Internet

Who are the major internet service providers in Singapore?

Singapore’s residential broadband market is served by five principal Internet Service Providers (ISPs): Singtel, StarHub, M1, Simba, and MyRepublic. The sector is currently undergoing consolidation: Simba acquired M1’s telco operations in August 2025, while StarHub absorbed MyRepublic during the same period, leaving three primary telco operators — Singtel, Simba, and StarHub. In the interim, each of these brands continues to market its own broadband products independently, so you will encounter all of them when shopping around. Always consult each provider’s official website for up-to-date availability and pricing.

Singtel — singtel.com
As Singapore’s largest ISP, Singtel provides an extensive portfolio of services spanning ultra-fast fibre broadband and bundled packages that combine television and mobile services. The provider is widely regarded as one of the most dependable on the island, though its pricing tends to sit at the upper end of the market when comparing contract duration, bandwidth tiers, and Wi-Fi technology. Plans extend up to 10 Gbps (as of 2024–2025).

StarHub — starhub.com
StarHub holds a prominent position in the local ISP landscape and is particularly well regarded for entertainment-oriented bundles incorporating streaming services. Its fibre broadband offering appeals especially to families and everyday users. StarHub keeps its plan selection streamlined, with tiers beginning at 2 Gbps and reaching 10 Gbps at the top; its 24-month 10 Gbps Wi-Fi 7 plan is priced at S$69.95 (as of 2024).

M1 / Simba — m1.com.sg / simba.sg
M1 has built a reputation for affordably priced fibre broadband plans that can be paired with mobile and voice services, and it remains the only major provider still offering a 500 Mbps tier. Its top-end plan caps at 2 Gbps. Simba, the newer entrant to the market, targets budget-conscious consumers; visit its website for current residential broadband options.

MyRepublic — myrepublic.net
MyRepublic has carved out a loyal following among gaming enthusiasts through specialised plans that prioritise gaming traffic and minimise latency. It was recognised as Best Fibre Broadband Service Provider in the Tech Award 2024 Readers’ Choice by HardwareZone.com, and received the Best Fixed Internet accolade for Q1–Q2 2025 from Speedtest Awards. The provider also offers “No Router” and “No Contract” plans — particularly well suited to residents who may not be staying in Singapore on a long-term basis.

ViewQwest and WhizComms
ViewQwest and WhizComms are two smaller but noteworthy alternatives. ViewQwest is a connectivity and managed security services provider recognised for its high-speed internet products, and has previously topped rankings as Singapore’s fastest ISP for both residential and SME segments. These operators may offer compelling pricing or niche features that larger providers do not.

Because promotional rates and contract conditions shift regularly, always consult official provider websites directly before committing to a plan.

What types of internet connection are available in Singapore?

Singapore has constructed a world-class digital infrastructure anchored by an extensive fibre broadband network and cutting-edge mobile technology. The centrepiece of this infrastructure is the Next Generation Nationwide Broadband Network (Next Gen NBN), a nationwide fibre-optic system that delivers high-speed internet to virtually every home and business on the island. In contrast to many Western European countries — where residential connections are often a mixture of fibre and older cable infrastructure — or markets still reliant on fibre-to-the-cabinet and legacy copper lines, Singapore has deployed fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) as the universal standard for residential connectivity across the entire island.

Singapore’s National Broadband Network is structured across three distinct layers: the Network Company (NetCo), responsible for owning and operating the passive fibre infrastructure; the Operating Company (OpCo), which manages the active network equipment; and Retail Service Providers (RSPs), who package and sell fibre broadband plans to end users. The passive fibre infrastructure itself is owned and managed by NetLink Trust, the designated NetCo, whose network delivers coverage to residential and non-residential premises throughout Singapore and its surrounding islands.

By the close of 2024, 5G coverage had reached effectively island-wide levels outdoors, with StarHub reporting in excess of 99% outdoor coverage and Singtel delivering complete 5G connectivity across all MRT underground lines. Where 5G is unavailable, 4G LTE serves as the reliable fallback on mobile networks and is accessible universally, both indoors and outdoors. The 3G era drew to a close in 2024: M1 decommissioned its 3G network in August 2024, with Singtel and StarHub following suit in November 2024. Anyone bringing an older handset should confirm it supports at least 4G.

As of 2025, consumer-facing satellite internet does not feature in the mainstream Singapore market. Starlink was granted a Facilities-Based Operator (FBO) licence from IMDA in 2023, but its current commercial focus remains on enterprise and maritime applications. DSL and cable broadband have effectively disappeared from the residential landscape, entirely superseded by the FTTH network.

Typical mobile data speeds sit in the range of 40–60 Mbps on 4G and 100–500 Mbps on 5G, with peak 5G performance exceeding 1 Gbps on mmWave and latency as low as 10 ms. Mobile broadband delivered via a 4G/5G home router is available as a practical alternative to a fixed fibre connection — a particularly appealing option for short-term residents or those in temporary accommodation.

How fast and reliable is the internet in Singapore?

Fixed broadband speeds in Singapore reached an average of 410.06 Mbps in December 2025, sustaining the nation’s top-ranked position globally. DataReportal’s Digital 2025 Singapore report recorded a median fixed internet speed of 324.46 Mbps in January 2025 — roughly four times the global average of 102.48 Mbps. By any international comparison, Singapore sits comfortably at the forefront of fixed broadband performance worldwide.

IMDA regulations oblige all broadband providers to publish their typical delivered speeds rather than simply advertised maximums, giving consumers a transparent basis for comparison. M1’s residential fibre testing for April–June 2025 demonstrated that customers on a 1 Gbps plan typically experience download speeds of approximately 918.5–953.8 Mbps in practice — confirming that real-world performance closely matches what is advertised.

Singapore’s median mobile download speed stands at around 104.98 Mbps, well above the global median of approximately 56.43 Mbps, placing the country 12th worldwide for mobile speeds as of August 2025. The June 2025 Opensignal report identified M1 as the leader in 5G download speed at 362.3 Mbps, followed closely by Singtel.

Fibre broadband access extends to every corner of the island — from the Central Business District to the most outlying northwestern neighbourhoods — and is even available within underground MRT stations. IMDA mandates a minimum monthly network availability of 99.9% for fixed broadband services. Large-scale outages are vanishingly rare. For the most current performance benchmarks and per-ISP comparisons, refer to the Ookla Speedtest Global Index or the IMDA’s published typical speed data at imda.gov.sg.

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

Establishing a residential broadband connection in Singapore is a well-structured and generally uncomplicated process for both locals and newcomers from overseas. Since the underlying fibre infrastructure is already in place across virtually all residential buildings, getting connected mainly requires selecting a provider, entering into a contract, and scheduling a technician appointment. The following steps outline the process from start to finish:

1. Confirm your address has an active fibre point. The majority of apartments and HDB flats are pre-wired with at least one fibre termination point. Speak with your landlord or building management to verify whether a point is already in place. Should one be absent, NetLink Trust — the owner of the fibre infrastructure — can arrange installation, ordinarily at no charge to you.
2. Compare providers and choose a plan. Review available plans from Singtel, StarHub, M1/Simba, MyRepublic, ViewQwest, and WhizComms using IMDA’s official resources or independent comparison platforms. Weigh up speed tier, contract duration, any bundled services, and current promotional pricing. If your stay in Singapore may be brief, prioritise providers offering “No Contract” or month-to-month options.
3. Apply online or in-store. Every major provider supports online applications through their respective websites. Alternatively, you can walk into a telco retail outlet — common in shopping malls throughout Singapore — which can be helpful if you have specific questions or require assistance with paperwork.
4. Provide the required documents. Foreign nationals will generally need to present a valid passport alongside a long-term residency document — such as an Employment Pass, S Pass, Dependant’s Pass, or Student Pass. Providers may also request proof of your Singapore address, such as a signed tenancy agreement. While a local bank account is not strictly mandatory, having one alongside a Singapore phone number tends to simplify the sign-up process considerably.
5. Book an installation appointment. Following approval of your application, the provider will arrange a technician visit to connect the service and configure your router. The installation of the fibre point and router is typically included at no extra cost, and a Wi-Fi router is usually supplied with the plan. Appointments can generally be booked within a few working days.
6. Go live. The attending technician will activate your connection during the appointment itself, meaning you should be online before they leave. From the moment you submit your application to the day you go live, the entire process typically spans three to five working days, subject to appointment availability.

If you are moving into a furnished property, it is worth confirming whether a previous occupant’s broadband contract is still in force — you may need to arrange cancellation of that service before applying for a new connection. Foreign nationals on short-term or tourist visas are likely to encounter difficulties when applying for standard 12- or 24-month contracts; in such circumstances, seek out no-contract or month-to-month plans from providers such as MyRepublic.

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

Bridging the gap between arrival and broadband activation is straightforward in Singapore. The mobile network is among the strongest anywhere in the world, and several short-term connectivity options are accessible from the moment you land.

Prepaid SIM cards are the go-to immediate solution for most newcomers. Singapore law requires that you present a photo ID when purchasing a SIM card — for visitors, this means your original passport (photocopies are not accepted). Under rules introduced in July 2024, registering a prepaid SIM using a passport results in only 30-day validity unless proof of legal Singapore residency is provided within that window. Once you have your residency documentation in hand, you can convert to a standard or postpaid plan without difficulty.

Singtel SIM cards — branded as hi!SIM cards — are sold at official Singtel stores, authorised dealers including 7-Eleven, select supermarkets, and at Changi Airport. Online ordering with collection at a nearby point is also an option. StarHub and M1 offer comparable purchase channels. It is worth noting that SIM cards purchased at the airport typically cost two to three times more than those bought at city-centre stores, so heading into town first is advisable if you are watching your budget.

Short-term visitor options include tourist SIM and eSIM bundles offering 100 GB of data over 7–10 days from approximately S$12–S$30, and 28-day 100 GB plans priced at around S$30. eSIM plans are available from the main local operators and specialist third-party providers; tourist eSIM plans generally range from S$4 to S$30 depending on data allowances and call benefits, typically providing between 1 GB and unlimited data.

Free public Wi-Fi is widely available across the island through the Wireless@SG programme, which provides complimentary wireless access in high-footfall locations including the Central Business District, Orchard Road shopping precincts, and residential town centres. The network delivers speeds of up to 5 Mbps and, as of February 2023, encompassed 5,867 hotspots across Singapore. Co-working spaces, cafés, public libraries, and MRT stations also provide dependable Wi-Fi throughout the city.

What does internet service typically cost in Singapore?

Singapore’s broadband market delivers exceptional value given the remarkable speeds on offer. A 1 Gbps connection now represents the entry-level starting point for residential plans. At this tier, monthly fees from the main providers generally begin at around S$30–S$35 per month on a 24-month contract (as of 2024–2025). Always verify current pricing on provider websites directly, as promotional rates are revised frequently.

Installation charges and equipment costs differ between providers. The majority of plans bundle a Wi-Fi router and include free installation of the fibre point, though some providers levy a one-time setup fee or equipment deposit — read the fine print carefully before committing. Standard contract lengths are 12 or 24 months, with early termination penalties applying to those who exit before the contract expires. Month-to-month and no-contract alternatives exist but generally carry a higher monthly price.

Affordability is also addressed at a policy level: the DigitalAccess@Home scheme provides subsidised broadband and devices to lower-income households, ensuring that financial constraints do not exclude any segment of the population from digital access. For a comprehensive view of current pricing across all licensed providers, visit IMDA’s consumer information pages at imda.gov.sg.

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

Singapore’s approach to internet governance can best be characterised as measured but deliberate. The overwhelming majority of websites and online services — including all leading social media platforms, streaming services, news outlets, and messaging applications — are fully accessible without restriction. That said, unlike the open-access frameworks prevalent across the European Union, Singapore maintains a list of blocked websites and operates legislation empowering authorities to instruct ISPs and platforms to restrict or remove certain categories of content.

IMDA is conscious of the dynamic and borderless character of the internet and applies a pragmatic, balanced approach to its oversight. This approach is underpinned by content standards designed to ensure that the internet remains a safe and responsible medium for all users. Local ISPs are obligated to restrict public access to a limited number of websites deemed to contain material that the community regards as offensive, harmful to racial and religious harmony, or contrary to the national interest. The majority of sites on the blocked list are pornographic in nature.

In practice, the blocking of internet services by major ISPs is characterised as symbolic in scale and confined to content with mass-impact objectionable material. Widely used platforms such as Google, YouTube, Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, Netflix, and comparable services function without any restrictions in Singapore. There is nothing resembling the large-scale platform blocking encountered in certain other Asian jurisdictions.

The law also empowers IMDA to direct social media platforms to disable access to content that promotes self-harm or violence, involves child sexual abuse imagery, or addresses race and religion in ways likely to inflame hostility between communities. Platforms that refuse to comply face fines of up to S$1 million or the prospect of being blocked outright in Singapore.

VPNs: Using a VPN for personal privacy is not unlawful in Singapore, and VPN services are routinely used by residents and businesses alike. No specific legislation prohibits VPN use for legitimate purposes. However, deploying a VPN to engage in activities that are themselves illegal under Singapore law — for instance, circumventing mandated content blocks — could attract legal scrutiny. As in any jurisdiction, responsible VPN use in keeping with local laws is advisable.

Expats should be mindful that Singapore enforces strict rules around online expression, most notably through the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (POFMA), which can compel corrections or takedowns of content determined to contain false statements of fact. These obligations extend to everyone present in Singapore, irrespective of nationality.

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

Singapore currently has four principal local telecom operators providing 4G mobile services: Singtel Mobile, StarHub Mobile, M1, and SIMBA Telecom (formerly TPG Telecom). The market is consolidating following Simba’s acquisition of M1’s telco business in August 2025, though all brands continue to operate their mobile networks independently for the time being. Robust competition among providers has maintained attractive pricing across the board.

Singtel’s network reaches over 95% of Singapore with strong 5G coverage, and the operator has deployed the country’s first nationwide 5G Standalone network. According to June 2025 data, Singtel leads the field in 5G Coverage Experience and delivers the most consistent overall mobile experience in Singapore. M1 holds the top position for 5G Availability according to the same June 2025 data.

SIM registration requirements: You must produce a photo ID when buying a SIM card — for visitors, this means your original passport (photocopies are unacceptable). From 28 February 2026, IMDA will cap the number of postpaid SIM cards each individual may register at a maximum of 10 across all operators. The existing limit of three prepaid SIMs per person across all providers remains in effect. Under rules operative since July 2024, registering a prepaid SIM with a passport yields only 30-day validity unless proof of legal Singapore residency is furnished within that period. Once residency documentation is available, switching to a long-term postpaid plan is straightforward.

eSIMs are supported by the main operators and by a range of specialist third-party providers. Some mobile operators offer eSIM plans with equivalent benefits to physical SIM cards; tourist eSIM plans in Singapore typically range from S$4 to S$30 depending on data volumes and call inclusions. Before travelling, verify that your handset supports eSIM on Singapore networks, as compatibility varies by device and operator.

Using a home-country SIM temporarily: International roaming is possible in Singapore through most global carriers, but the associated costs can mount quickly. It is also worth noting that Singaporean operators may include roaming data for nearby countries — commonly Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, and sometimes Australia — in their starter packages. For any stay beyond a day or two, purchasing a local SIM or eSIM will almost always prove more economical than depending on international roaming. Check your home-country operator’s roaming tariffs before departure.

Who regulates internet and telecoms services in Singapore?

The primary regulatory body overseeing internet and telecommunications in Singapore is the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). A statutory board operating under the Ministry of Communications and Information, IMDA is responsible for the development and regulation of the infocomm and media sectors across Singapore. Its official website is imda.gov.sg, and it is the single most authoritative source for information on internet and telecoms matters in the country.

IMDA establishes the regulatory framework within which internet service providers in Singapore must operate, ensuring adherence to rules and promoting fair competition across the telecommunications industry. Any entity licensed under Section 5 of the Telecommunications Act 1999 to deliver internet access services is classified as an Internet Access Service Provider, and all such entities must first obtain either a Facilities-Based Operator (FBO) or a Services-Based Operations (SBO) licence from IMDA before commencing operations.

ISPs and Internet Content Providers in Singapore are further regulated through the Broadcasting (Class Licence) Notification. They are required to adhere to the conditions set out in the Internet Class Licence and ensure that any content they provide is consistent with the Internet Code of Practice.

For consumers, IMDA serves as a valuable practical resource. It publishes ISP speed data enabling direct comparisons between advertised and actual typical speeds, maintains a register of all licensed operators, handles consumer complaints against licensed ISPs, and provides guidance on consumer rights and entitlements. Under IMDA’s requirements, all broadband providers must publish their typical delivered speeds rather than theoretical maximums alone. If a dispute with your ISP cannot be resolved directly with the provider, IMDA is the appropriate body to contact. Independent benchmarking tools such as Ookla Speedtest and Speedtest.sg can also be used to measure your connection against published performance norms.

Frequently asked questions about internet access in Singapore

How long does it take to get a broadband connection set up in my new Singapore home?

From the moment you submit an online application to the day your service goes live, the entire process typically takes three to five working days, depending on the availability of technician appointments. If your property already has a fibre termination point — which is the case for the vast majority of Singapore homes — the technician visit itself requires only an hour or two to activate the service and configure your router. Budget a little extra time if a new fibre point needs to be installed in your unit.

Can I get broadband as a foreigner on an Employment Pass or Dependant’s Pass?

Yes. Foreign nationals holding valid long-term passes — including Employment Passes, S Passes, Dependant’s Passes, and Student Passes — are eligible to sign up for residential broadband contracts with all major providers. You will need to present your pass and passport along with proof of your Singapore address, such as a tenancy agreement. Some providers may request further documentation. If you are in Singapore on a short-term visit visa, look specifically for month-to-month or no-contract plans rather than attempting to enter a standard 12- or 24-month agreement.

Is there a free public Wi-Fi network in Singapore?

Yes — the Wireless@SG programme provides complimentary wireless internet access across high-footfall locations including the Central Business District, the Orchard Road shopping belt, and neighbourhood town centres. As of early 2023, the network spanned 5,867 hotspots across the island. You can register for a free Wireless@SG account through any of the telco providers. Connection speeds are capped at approximately 5 Mbps, making the network suitable for general browsing and messaging, though not ideal for bandwidth-intensive activities such as streaming or large file transfers.

Are popular streaming and social media platforms accessible in Singapore?

Yes. All major streaming services (Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Spotify, Apple TV+), social media networks (Instagram, Facebook, X/Twitter, TikTok, LinkedIn), and messaging applications (WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal) are freely available in Singapore without any restriction. Singapore’s list of blocked content is narrowly drawn and focuses primarily on adult content sites rather than mainstream platforms of any kind.

Is it legal to use a VPN in Singapore?

Using a VPN for personal privacy or security is not against the law in Singapore, and VPNs are in common use among both residents and businesses. There is no legislation specifically targeting VPN use. That said, employing a VPN to carry out activities that are independently unlawful under Singapore law remains an offence regardless of the VPN. If you use a VPN for legitimate purposes such as remote work, accessing content from your home country, or general privacy, you are very unlikely to encounter any legal complications.

How much does a typical broadband plan cost in Singapore?

Entry-level fibre broadband plans starting at 1 Gbps are available from approximately S$30–S$35 per month on a 24-month contract (as of 2024–2025). Gigabit connectivity represents the baseline in Singapore — speeds that would command premium pricing in most other markets. Top-tier 10 Gbps plans equipped with Wi-Fi 7 routers range from around S$30 per month (Simba promotional pricing) up to S$79 per month (Singtel), depending on the provider and contract terms chosen. Check provider websites directly for current pricing, as promotional rates are updated frequently.

Which network should I choose for a prepaid SIM card on arrival?

Based on June 2025 data, Singtel leads for 5G Coverage Experience and delivers the most consistent overall mobile performance in Singapore. M1 tops the rankings for 5G download speed at 362.3 Mbps according to the June 2025 Opensignal report. In practical terms, all three legacy networks — Singtel, StarHub, and M1 — deliver excellent and broadly comparable coverage across the entire island. For convenience on arrival, tourist SIM cards from all major operators are on sale at Changi Airport, though purchasing from a city-centre store will typically offer better value for money. Remember to carry your original passport for mandatory SIM registration.

Does Singapore have any plans to further upgrade its broadband infrastructure?

The government has committed to investing up to S$100 million in upgrading the fibre-optic Nationwide Broadband Network (NBN), with the aim of enabling households to access internet speeds of up to 10 Gbps by 2028. Upgrade works commenced in earnest in 2024, with completion expected by 2026 and widespread consumer adoption of 10 Gbps speeds anticipated from 2028 onwards. Singapore is also advancing its rollout of 5G Standalone infrastructure island-wide, with all major operators having already switched off their 3G networks.