Get online and stay there: Understanding internet and media in Finland
Helsinki’s digital pulse is one of the fastest and most reliable in the world, making it a standout destination for anyone keen to plug into a top-tier web landscape. Just landed in Finland? Here’s how to seamlessly click into life here, from getting yourself online to tuning into local media.
Digital
How to get online?
Finland boasts one of the world’s fastest and most reliable internet infrastructures, making it a leader in digital connectivity. Major service providers offer comprehensive services that cater to a wide range of needs, from basic internet access to bundled packages including TV and mobile services.
Choose a provider
To get online, simply choose from a variety of reliable internet service providers like Telia, Elisa, and DNA, that offer a range from vanilla broadband to high-speed fiber connections. And guess what? Many homes come with internet baked right into the lease.
Gain high-speed access
Finns enjoy broad access to high-speed internet, with most households and businesses connected to networks that provide speeds of at least 100 Mbps – meaning you’re connected wherever you decide to plant your boots.
Make sure to stay informed and entertained
The media landscape reflects the city’s commitment to diversity and reliability. At its core is Yle, the public broadcaster, trusted for its thorough coverage and wide-ranging programs. Private broadcasters add their own flavour, providing a mix of news, entertainment, and cultural insights. Whether you’re after soap operas or in-depth documents, we’ve got you covered.
Public Broadcasting
Yle, the Finnish Broadcasting Company, is funded through a specific media tax and provides multiple TV and radio channels in Finnish, Swedish, and on some occasions, even in English (check out Yle Kielikoulu to keep up with the news while learning Finnish). Its mix of news, cultural content, and entertainment, all produced to inform and engage the public without any commercial breaks. Smooth, huh?
Private Broadcasters
There’s also private broadcasters like MTV3 and Nelonen, offering a variety of content from popular entertainment to critical news coverage. This blend makes sure the media ecosystem provides multiple perspectives and a wide range of content to give something to everyone.
What about print and digital media?
Nationwide newspapers such as Helsingin Sanomat and Ilta-Sanomat remain influential voices in Finnish society, with many available in both print and digital formats. There are also multiple regional media for more local information, like Aamulehti, Turun Sanomat and Satakunnan Kansa.
Tips for staying connected
Stream it away
Tap into international streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime for a more global perspective. Keep the streams flowing and your entertainment options open.
Get to know all options
Take a moment to go through various internet and media service packages. It’s all about finding the right fit –whether you need lightning-fast speed for gaming or stable connectivity for streaming. Choose the package that best suits your digital lifestyle.
Enjoy free entertainment
Utilise online platforms and apps for a richer media experience. Yle Areena, for example, offers on-demand access to a wide range of TV shows, news broadcasts, and radio programs for zero cost.
