The Fourth Utility
In today's world, a reliable internet connection is as essential as water or electricity. In the Netherlands, this 'fourth utility' is almost always the tenant's direct responsibility. The advertised monthly rent for a property rarely includes internet, so it's an additional cost that must be factored into the budget. The Dutch market is competitive, with numerous providers (aanbieders) vying for customers, but navigating the options can be a challenge. The available speed, technology, and price vary dramatically from one address to the next, and the choices you make can lock you into a long-term contract that might not be as good as it first appeared. Assuming you can get the same lightning-fast connection you had at your old place is a mistake; the reality of the infrastructure is often far more complicated.
Connection Types: Fiber, Cable, and DSL
The first step for any new tenant is to perform a postcodecheck (postal code check) on various provider websites. This will reveal which types of connection are physically available at the address, as you can't simply choose the one you want. The options typically fall into three categories:
- Fiber Optic (
Glasvezel): This is the gold standard, offering the highest potential speeds for both downloads and uploads. It's the most future-proof technology, but its availability is still not universal, especially in the centers of older cities or more rural areas. If a property has it, it's a major selling point. However, multiple providers might offer services over the same fiber network, so it's still worth comparing prices.
- Cable (
Kabel): This is widely available, especially in cities, and is typically dominated by one or two major providers (like Ziggo or KPN). Cable offers very high download speeds but often has significantly lower upload speeds compared to fiber. For most users, this is more than sufficient, but for those who work from home and frequently upload large files, it can be a bottleneck.
- DSL: This technology uses traditional copper phone lines to deliver internet. It is the most widely available type of connection but generally offers the slowest and least reliable speeds. The maximum speed you can get via DSL is heavily dependent on the distance between your apartment and the local telephone exchange. In many cases, the advertised 'up to' speed is a fantasy, and the actual performance can be disappointing. It's usually the budget option for a reason.
The Contract Trap
Internet providers in the Netherlands love long-term contracts. The standard contract duration is one or two years. While they often lure new customers with attractive introductory offers—such as a reduced price for the first six months or a free router—the price typically jumps significantly after the initial period. Getting out of a contract early is often impossible without paying a substantial penalty fee. This lack of flexibility can be a problem for tenants on short-term leases or for those who may need to move unexpectedly. It's crucial to read the fine print and understand the full cost over the entire contract period, not just the promotional price. Additionally, tenants in large apartment complexes should be wary of buildings that have an exclusive deal with a single provider. This can limit choice and competition, potentially leading to higher prices or poorer service for the residents, who are effectively a captive audience.
