Internet Providers in Uruguay
South America — Ranked #32 globally for broadband speed
Uruguay has the best internet infrastructure in Latin America after Chile. Through a government-led program, Antel (the state telecom) rolled out nationwide fiber-to-the-home as part of the Plan Ceibal and national digital inclusion strategy. Uruguay has near-universal school connectivity and one of the highest rates of fiber penetration in the region. Its small size and high urbanization have helped drive rapid infrastructure deployment.
Broadband Overview — Uruguay
| Uruguay Internet Statistics | |
|---|---|
| Population | 3,473,730 |
| Internet Users | 3,150,000 (90.7% penetration) |
| Broadband Household Coverage | 85.0% of households |
| FTTH / Fibre Penetration | 68.0% of fixed broadband |
| Mobile Subscriptions | 145 per 100 people |
| Avg. Monthly Cost (broadband) | ~USD $35 |
| Regulatory Body | Unidad Reguladora de Servicios de Comunicaciones (URSEC) |
| Global Speed Rank | #32 (Ookla fixed broadband index) |
Broadband Infrastructure
Antel dominates Uruguay's fixed broadband market with its FTTH network covering most of Montevideo and major cities. Antel's fiber network reaches over 68% of the country. Private operators Claro and Movistar compete primarily in mobile and in selected areas for fixed broadband. International connectivity is via SAm-1 and other submarine cables.
Key Facts
- ✓ Uruguay ranks #32 globally for internet speed — #2 in Latin America after Chile.
- ✓ Antel's fiber network was built largely with public investment as part of a national digital strategy.
- ✓ Plan Ceibal gave every public school student a laptop and internet access.
- ✓ Uruguay has the highest fixed broadband penetration per household in Latin America.
- ✓ Fiber covers over 68% of all households — exceptionally high for a developing economy.
Internet Freedom in Uruguay
- ● Uruguay has one of the freest internet environments in Latin America
- ● No government content filtering or censorship
- ● Strong constitutional and legislative protections for freedom of expression
- ● Uruguay was among the first countries in Latin America to legalize same-sex marriage and cannabis — liberal democratic values extend to the internet
- ● URSEC has no content blocking powers
ISP Speed Comparison — Uruguay
Benchmark speeds based on Speedtest.now methodology. Actual speeds vary by location and plan.
| Provider | Technology | Download | Upload | Ping | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antel | Fibre (FTTH), Cable | 188 Mbps | 172 Mbps | 9 ms | View → |
| Claro Uruguay | 4G Fixed Wireless, 5G | 62 Mbps | 24 Mbps | 18 ms | View → |
| Movistar Uruguay | 4G Fixed Wireless, 5G | 56 Mbps | 20 Mbps | 19 ms | View → |
All Providers in Uruguay
Antel
AS6057Uruguay's state-owned ISP — one of Latin America's fastest.
Claro Uruguay
AS27680América Móvil's mobile-focused Uruguayan operation.
Movistar Uruguay
AS11664Telefónica's Uruguayan mobile and wireless broadband arm.
How to Choose an ISP in Uruguay
1. Check Coverage
Not all ISPs serve all addresses. Enter your postcode or address on each ISP's website to confirm availability before ordering.
2. Match Speed to Use
Streaming HD requires 10 Mbps per screen. Working from home with video calls needs 25 Mbps minimum. Gaming and 4K streaming benefit from 100+ Mbps.
3. Compare Contracts
Check whether the ISP locks you into a 12 or 24-month contract. Rolling monthly deals offer flexibility but may cost more. Watch for setup fees.
4. Run a Speed Test
After signing up, run a speed test to verify you're getting the speeds you paid for. Test at different times of day.
Frequently Asked Questions — Uruguay Broadband
Who are the main ISPs in Uruguay?
Antel (state-owned) is the dominant provider. Claro and Movistar also operate, mainly in mobile.
Is Antel reliable?
Yes. Antel is widely regarded as one of the best state telecom operators in Latin America, with high speeds and reliable service.
Is internet censored in Uruguay?
No. Uruguay has a free and open internet with strong protections for freedom of expression online.