WiFi in Azerbaijan: Free Spots, Coworking & Internet Speed

For digital nomads and Instagram addicts, good internet is non-negotiable. Here is the reality of staying connected in Azerbaijan.

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Internet Speed 🚀

• Baku: Good. Fiber optic is common in the center.
  • Download: 30 - 100 Mbps is standard in hotels/Airbnbs.
  • Upload: 10 - 50 Mbps.
• Regions (Sheki, Gabala): Decent but slower.
  • Download: 10 - 30 Mbps.
  • Stability: Can drop during storms.

Verdict: Fast enough for Zoom calls and Netflix in Baku.

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Free WiFi Spots 🆓

1. Baku Public WiFi: Available in major parks (Boulevard, Fountain Square, Sahil Park).
   • Network Name: "Baku Loves You" or similar.
   • Login: Requires SMS verification (need a local or roaming SIM).
2. Airport (GYD): Free, fast, and no password required.
3. Metro: Most stations and trains have free WiFi ("Baktelecom"). Requires SMS login.
4. Buses: Newer red BakuBuses have WiFi, but it's hit-or-miss.
5. Cafes: Almost every cafe in Baku has free WiFi. Just ask for the password ("parol").

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Best Cafes for Working ☕💻

If you need to open your laptop for a few hours:

1. Coffeemood: Quiet, good plugs, great coffee. (Nizami St area).
2. United Coffee Beans: Popular with freelancers. Good food.
3. Gloria Jean's (Fountain Sq): Big upstairs area, reliable WiFi.
4. Starbucks (Port Baku): Fast internet, standard vibe.

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Coworking Spaces 🏢

For serious work:

1. The Landmark: Premium business center. Expensive but top quality.
2. Lotfi Zadeh Technology Center: Tech-focused, modern.
3. Nexus: Good community vibe.

Cost: Daily passes range from 15 - 30 AZN ($9 - $18).

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VPN Usage 🔒

• Is internet censored? Generally no. YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp work freely.
• Why use a VPN? Occasionally, during political events, social media might be throttled. It's always smart to have a VPN installed just in case.

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Summary

• Internet is reliable in Baku.
• Free WiFi is everywhere but often needs SMS login.
• Coworking scene is growing.
• Get a local SIM with data as a backup (Azercell is best).