Global internet bandwidth rose by 22% in 2024, continuing its slow but steady decline over the past few years. Total international bandwidth now stands at 1,479 Tbps, representing a four-year CAGR of 25%.
Clearly, the pace of growth has been slowing recently. However, it varies across regions.
New IP Networks research tells us that Africa has once again experienced the most rapid growth of international internet bandwidth, growing at a compound annual rate of 41% between 2020 and 2024.
International Internet Bandwidth Growth by Region
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If you’re wondering why, consider that network operators’ recent investments in metro, terrestrial long-haul, and submarine backbone fiber networks have improved internet access for millions of Africans.
These investments, combined with the massive adoption by African consumers of 4G and, recently, 5G mobile handsets, have driven sharp increases in international internet bandwidth connecting African countries.
Other Key Findings
- COVID-related bandwidth expansion was a one-off phenomenon; trends from previous years have resumed.
- International internet bandwidth growth slowed to 22% in 2024, with a 4-year CAGR of 25%.
- Africa led growth at 41% CAGR, followed by Asia at 28%.
Internet Traffic Capacity
- Average international peak traffic grew at 24% CAGR from 2020 to 2024, mirroring bandwidth growth.
- 10 GigE prices fell 13% annually, while 100 GigE prices dropped 15% from Q2 2021 to Q2 2024.
- 100 Gbps wavelength prices between Europe and South Africa decreased by 38% post-Equiano cable activation.
Prices
- Price erosion in IP transit remains universal, driven by competition and lower carrying costs.
- 10 GigE prices reached $0.07 per Mbps, while 100 GigE prices were at $0.05 per Mbps in competitive markets.
- 400 GigE services are emerging, with prices ranging from $0.07 to $0.08 per Mbps.
Outlook
- Internet traffic growth will be fueled by new devices, broadband penetration, and bandwidth-intensive applications.
- AI's impact on international capacity is uncertain, with traffic running through various operators.
- Increased reliance on direct connections and caching may dampen international traffic growth.
- IP transit price erosion will continue, with emerging markets benefiting from economies of scale.
You’ll find more research like this in our IP Networks Research Service, the most complete source of data and analysis about international internet capacity, traffic, service providers, ASN connectivity, and pricing.
👉 Download the Executive Summary for an extended sample of our latest findings.
Paul Brodsky
Paul Brodsky is a Senior Research Manager at TeleGeography. He is part of the network, internet, cloud, and voice research team. His regional expertise includes Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
