Connectivity in Turkmenistan: Limited WiFi availability, consider getting a local SIM card.

Turkmenistan’s Internet and Connectivity: A Comprehensive Guide

Turkmenistan is a country located in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Afghanistan. It is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and unique culture. However, when it comes to internet and connectivity, Turkmenistan is not as well-known. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to Turkmenistan’s internet and connectivity, answering questions such as “What’s the internet situation like?” “Is it easy to find WiFi?” and “Is it worth getting a local SIM card?”

Firstly, let’s talk about the internet situation in Turkmenistan. The country has a state-controlled internet system, which means that the government has a significant influence on what content is available online. As a result, many websites and social media platforms are blocked, including Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. This can be frustrating for tourists and expats who are used to having access to these sites.

However, there are ways to bypass these restrictions. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are commonly used in Turkmenistan to access blocked websites. A VPN allows you to connect to a server in a different country, which then allows you to access the internet as if you were in that country. It’s important to note that using a VPN is technically illegal in Turkmenistan, so it’s important to use one at your own risk.

Now, let’s talk about WiFi. Is it easy to find WiFi in Turkmenistan? The short answer is no. While some hotels and cafes offer WiFi, it is often slow and unreliable. In addition, the government has been known to shut down the internet entirely during times of political unrest, which can be frustrating for tourists and expats who rely on the internet for communication and work.

If you do need to access the internet while in Turkmenistan, it’s worth considering getting a local SIM card. The two main mobile operators in Turkmenistan are Altyn Asyr and TM Cell. Both offer prepaid SIM cards that can be purchased at their respective stores or at the airport upon arrival. The cost of a SIM card is relatively cheap, and data packages are also affordable. However, it’s important to note that the internet speed can be slow, and coverage can be limited in more remote areas.

Another option for internet access is to use public internet cafes. These can be found in larger cities such as Ashgabat and Turkmenbashi. However, it’s important to note that these cafes are also subject to government restrictions, and some websites may be blocked.

In terms of connectivity, Turkmenistan is not as well-connected as other countries in the region. The country has limited international connectivity, which means that internet speeds can be slow and unreliable. This can be frustrating for tourists and expats who rely on the internet for work or communication.

However, the government has been making efforts to improve connectivity in recent years. In 2018, the country launched its first communication satellite, which has helped to improve internet speeds and connectivity. In addition, the government has been investing in fiber optic infrastructure, which will help to improve connectivity in the long term.

In conclusion, Turkmenistan’s internet and connectivity situation is not as advanced as other countries in the region. The government has a significant influence on what content is available online, and many websites and social media platforms are blocked. WiFi can be difficult to find, and the internet speed can be slow and unreliable. However, there are ways to bypass these restrictions, such as using a VPN or getting a local SIM card. The government has also been making efforts to improve connectivity in recent years, which is a positive sign for the future.