Getting home internet in Germany takes time. Two to four weeks often pass between signing the contract and going online, so you should order early.

The three main types of connection

DSL runs through the telephone socket (TAE) at up to 250 Mbit/s. Cable internet uses the TV cable socket and reaches up to 1,000 Mbit/s. Fibre (Glasfaser, FTTH) offers the greatest stability; its availability is growing quickly but depends on the individual building.

Why the technician's visit is often delayed

Even with alternative providers (1&1, O2, Vodafone DSL), the “last mile” line usually belongs to Deutsche Telekom. Connecting the line in the building's utility room often requires a technician's appointment, which may take two to three weeks.

Your own router or a rented one

Providers rent out routers for about €5 to €9 a month. Under the German router freedom rule (Routerfreiheit), however, you may use any device of your own. A router of your own, such as a FRITZ!Box, often pays for itself within one and a half to two years.

Staying connected: mobile 5G/LTE routers

If you need the internet for remote work from day one, mobile solutions help: plans with unlimited 5G or LTE data and a SIM card in a router, such as Vodafone GigaCube, on a monthly basis.

What to check

  • Check the available technologies for your exact address on the providers' websites.
  • Order the connection three to four weeks before you plan to move in.
  • Make sure the technician can access the building's utility room on the day of the visit.
  • Buy a compatible router for VDSL or DOCSIS 3.1 in advance.

Example situation

A remote developer orders cable internet a month before moving, buys his own FRITZ!Box Cable and activates his gigabit connection on moving day without a technician.

Next step

Order your internet as soon as you sign the tenancy agreement; a delayed technician can leave you offline for a whole month.

Official information on this topic

Checklists and examples are organisational recommendations. Requirements depend on the procedure, the city and your situation; check them with the relevant office before you act. Please discuss legal and tax questions with an authorised professional.

This article was prepared with the help of AI. The example illustrates the approach and does not describe a client case.