Home internet

Set up a home broadband connection. Telekom, Vodafone, and 1&1 are the main providers. Requires Anmeldung. Expect 2-4 weeks for installation after signing up.

Last verified: May 2026

What it is

Fixed home broadband. Most Berlin apartments have DSL or cable infrastructure already in the building — you’re signing up for a service contract, not getting new cables installed. Typical speeds are 50-250 Mbit/s; fibre (FTTH) is available in newer buildings.

Options

Telekom — most reliable coverage across Berlin, including older buildings. Tends to be slightly more expensive (from ~€35/mo). English-language support available. Best choice if reliability matters and you work from home.

Vodafone — available in many buildings via cable (not DSL). Often faster speeds for the price (~€30/mo). Check if your building has cable infrastructure.

1&1 — competitive pricing (~€25-30/mo), uses Telekom’s infrastructure in many areas. German-language only.

O2 (Telefónica) — decent option, often has promotional pricing. German-language only.

What you need

  • Anmeldebescheinigung — you need a registered German address
  • German IBAN — for direct debit
  • Your exact address — to check availability

Step by step

  1. Check availability for your address at each provider’s website (enter your address for a coverage check)
  2. Compare the deals — look at: price, contract length (12 vs 24 months), installation fee (often waived), speed
  3. Sign up online
  4. You’ll receive a router by post (1-2 weeks)
  5. An engineer appointment may be needed to activate the line (varies by building)
  6. Activation typically takes 2-4 weeks from signup

Common mistakes

  • Signing up before you have a permanent address. You can’t set up internet at a temporary address. Wait until you have your flat.
  • Forgetting the minimum contract term. Most contracts are 24 months. If you might leave Berlin within 2 years, look for monthly-cancellable options or be prepared for an early termination fee.
  • Not checking cable vs DSL. Some buildings only have DSL, some only cable. Check before signing up.
  • Assuming it’s instant. Plan for 2-4 weeks without home internet — use your mobile data or a portable hotspot in the meantime.