How to Set Up Your ISP Business in Pakistan — 2020 Update

Pakistan has a growing demand for internet connectivity, especially in smaller cities and towns where large telcos have not yet reached. This makes it a great time to start an ISP business.

Licensing Requirements

First things first — you need a license from PTA (Pakistan Telecommunication Authority). The type of license depends on your scale:

• LDI (Long Distance International): For large-scale operations
• LL (Local Loop): For city/area level operations
• Class License: For smaller operations

Network Infrastructure

Decide on your technology:

• Fiber: Best for dense urban areas, higher upfront cost, best speeds
• Wireless: Lower cost, good for spread-out areas, flexible deployment
• Hybrid: Fiber backbone with wireless last-mile — popular choice

Business Setup

• Register your company with SECP
• Open a business bank account
• Set up your office — even a small setup works to start
• Hire core team: at least one network technician and one person for customer management

Software and Systems

From day one, you need:

• Customer management system to track subscribers
• Billing software for invoices and payments
• Accounting module for financial tracking
• Network monitoring tools

Getting Your First Customers

Start in one building or one neighborhood. Offer competitive rates and excellent service. Word of mouth is still the most effective marketing for ISPs in Pakistan.

The ISPs that succeed are not always the ones with the most capital — they are the ones with the best systems and customer service.