Skip to main content

Seeking Internet access, Syrians turn to Turkey's wireless network

Wireless networks from Turkey are spreading in opposition-controlled neighborhoods in Aleppo, with cheap prices compared with local Internet services that are regularly disrupted.
Free Syrian Army fighters use their smartphones behind sandbags in the Al-Maysar neighbourhood of Aleppo May 3, 2014. REUTERS/Jalal Al-Mamo (SYRIA - Tags: CIVIL UNREST MILITARY POLITICS SOCIETY CONFLICT) - RTR3NNM2

ALEPPO, Syria — In front of his shop window, damaged by airstrikes, Ahmed sat on a wooden chair, so taken with having access to the Internet on his phone that he did not notice Al-Monitor’s correspondent walk into the store. He cast a shy smile and said, “We have become so addicted to the Internet that we can no longer let go of it.”

In the neighborhood of al-Mashhad, as in most of Aleppo’s rebel-controlled areas, wireless networks are widespread. In different parts of the city, a phone will detect dozens of available networks.

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.