The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has issued a strict warning to internet service providers (ISPs) across the country, instructing them not to operate Wi-Fi hotspots randomly or without proper authorization. The authority has announced that it will take action against ISPs found violating the Hotspot Operation Regulations, 2075 BS.
According to the NTA, only service providers who hold licenses for basic telecommunications services, mobile telephone services, or basic telephone services are allowed to provide seamless Wi-Fi connectivity, including roaming and mobility features. Other licensed ISPs must operate Wi-Fi hotspots strictly according to the rules and limitations outlined in the regulations.
Currently, Nepal Telecom is the only company permitted to provide basic telecommunication services. Ncell and Nepal Telecom have licenses for mobile telephone services, while UTL holds a license for basic telephone services.
The Hotspot Operation Regulations include important clauses such as 2(e) and 2(f), which state that Wi-Fi hotspots must be operated only within specific areas or perimeters. Regulation 5(1) also mandates that users should access the hotspot services for a limited time or data quota through a single login.
Furthermore, the NTA has reminded ISPs to comply with Section 7.4, Schedule 4 of the Radio Frequency (Allocation and Pricing) Policy, 2080 BS. This includes following limits on transmission power, backhaul restrictions, and using only radio equipment approved by the NTA.
WorldLink, which operates over 14,000 free Wi-Fi hotspots under the brand name “Wi-Fi Express”, has the largest public hotspot network in Nepal and is also under the NTA’s observation. Top officials, including Chairman Bhupendra Bhandari, have directly instructed service providers like WorldLink to ensure all their hotspot operations are legal and within NTA guidelines.
This move is part of NTA’s effort to bring structure, fairness, and legal compliance to Nepal’s fast-growing internet infrastructure and to prevent misuse of wireless resources.