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In response to ongoing internet disruptions in Pakistan, international companies, including the popular instant messaging App WhatsApp, are relocating parts of their operations abroad.
According to official reports, WhatsApp has shifted its session server routing outside of Pakistan, resulting in connectivity issues for users within the country. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has attributed these challenges to the relocation of WhatsApp’s Content Delivery Network (CDN) servers outside Pakistan.
The PTA has announced that the movement of WhatsApp’s CDN beyond national borders has led to interruptions in service for users. A significant number of WhatsApp users are encountering challenges in establishing and sustaining communication.
The PTA claims that there have been enhancements in internet services throughout both fixed-line and mobile networks nationwide. In recent weeks, there has been a notable enhancement in fixed-line internet services, which have advanced by two tiers. Meanwhile, Pakistan finds itself positioned at 139th in the global rankings for fixed-line internet speed.
According to the PTA, mobile network services have seen a significant enhancement, elevating Pakistan to the 97th position worldwide in terms of mobile internet speed. Even with these advancements, the lingering effects of sluggish internet continue to pose challenges for both enterprises and individuals.
In recent developments, PTA has announced that discussions are ongoing between the government and Starlink concerning the potential issuance of a license for satellite services. The PTA is currently assessing the technical specifications necessary for Starlink’s licensing, while the National Space Agency is scrutinizing the proposal by the national space policy.
The PTA highlighted the necessity of assessing various technical factors, such as bandwidth, uplinking, and gateways, before the issuance of a license. This process is relevant for all international satellite service providers, and regulatory approval must be secured following clearance from the space agency.
