Pakistan’s Internet Disturbances Linked to Higher VPN Usage, PTA Reports

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has disclosed that the increasing use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in Pakistan is straining the country’s internet infrastructure and impacting foreign exchange reserves.

According to media reports, VPN usage in Pakistan surged during internet disruptions, further slowing down internet speeds. PTA’s briefing papers indicate that VPN reliance is bypassing local Content Delivery Networks (CDNs), which account for 70% of the internet services in the country, thus placing additional strain on the infrastructure.

The report elaborates that VPNs reroute internet traffic to international servers, increasing bandwidth usage. This rerouting costs approximately one dollar per megabyte of data, contributing to a significant loss in foreign exchange.

Bandwidth Consumption Statistics

• August: 634 Gbps
• September: 597 Gbps
• October: 815 Gbps
• November: 378 Gbps
• December: 437 Gbps (following internet improvements)

PTA Chairman emphasized that VPN services would not be shut down. The registration process for VPN service providers started on December 19, with two providers applying for licenses.

During a meeting chaired by Senator Plosha Khan, the PTA Chairman discussed internet connectivity and disruptions. He highlighted that Pakistan currently has seven submarine cables, with four to five more expected soon, promising improved internet speeds. Despite these developments, Pakistan ranks 97th globally in internet speed.

The PTA Chairman explained that internet shutdowns are implemented based on directives from the Ministry of Interior or court orders. The committee discussed the legal aspects of such shutdowns and the need to improve internet speed in regions like Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

VPN Registration and Industry Concerns

PTCL has applied for VPN registration, and more applications are expected. The PTA is in discussions with the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) to address any concerns regarding the registration process.

PTA remains committed to enhancing Pakistan’s internet infrastructure while ensuring adherence to international standards and legal frameworks.