If you have ever worked remotely, you will know that a fast, reliable Internet connection is crucial. Although some people (wrongly) believe that Internet connections are slower on islands than on the continent, the Canary Islands boasts one of the best broadband networks in Europe. There’s no question that this is an enormous competitive advantage for the islands leading Europe as the destination of choice for remote workers.
Broadband internet
According to the 2023 Broadband report for the Canary Islands, published in early 2024, the Canary Islands enjoy excellent connectivity. This report updates data on the deployment and adoption of broadband since mid-2023. Fibre to the home (FTTH) reaches a coverage of 93%, and access to fast networks of up to 1 Gbps is guaranteed in the main towns and urban population areas. Gran Canaria has a 5G coverage of 95.2% and more than 93% broadband coverage with at least 100 Mbps.
Mobile coverage is guaranteed almost everywhere, with speeds of up to 300 Mbps in most places, thanks to 5G technology. Moreover, thanks to satellite services that offer quality connectivity in the countryside, you are also likely to find a good Internet connection in rural parts. All you need is a satellite dish to work at speeds of 30 Mb per second anywhere in the archipelago.
Wi-Fi networks
Wi-Fi networks are still the most common service in public and private spaces throughout the islands. This applies to co-working and co-living spaces where a good Internet connection is essential. However, numerous hotels, cafés, bars, and restaurants already offer good Internet connections to enhance the customer experience. Public spaces have also joined the initiative, with free Wi-Fi in parks, beaches, and public transport.
Wireless networks give remote workers enormous freedom to combine leisure and work, ensuring a good Internet connection. They can set up an office anywhere and enjoy tourist attractions and remote work outdoors thanks to the year-round good weather in the Canary Islands.
Most public Wi-Fi networks on the islands are secure and free. However, it is always advisable to take certain precautions. These include ensuring that the network complies with the HTTPS security protocol, installing a VPN, avoiding downloading or uploading sensitive content while using them.
Main Internet providers in the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands have numerous Internet providers offering different installation and maintenance services with rates to fit the connection needs of each remote worker. These are generally cheaper than in the rest of Spain because of the tax rate applied in the islands, the IGIC, which is 7% compared to 21% VAT). From portable wireless devices or networks to fibre optic networks or installation of satellite dishes in rural areas (orography permitting).
Some of the main Internet providers on the islands are:
-PatuMovil: offers telephony services for SMEs and individuals in the Canary Islands.
-Wifi Canarias: this company has the largest wireless network in the Canary Islands, with coverage in Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and La Palma. It is seen as a pioneer of developments based on WiFi 802.11x and Wimax networks.
-Verimax: this firm has its own network in Los Llanos, Los Sauces, Los Cancajos and Fuencaliente, on the island of La Palma.
-IdecNet: a local provider which offers personalised services, including specific options for rural areas.
-Canalink: provides connectivity solutions to areas that require a specialist approach, particularly in rural districts.
Connectivity means productivity
When the technological conditions are right, productivity increases and with it one’s ability to have free time to devote to hobbies or discovering new places and becoming fully immersed in the Canarian lifestyle.
These are all important factors considered by the many remote workers who choose the Canary Islands as an Atlantic Hub for work.