Internet Usage Rate by Country (% of Population) 2004

Discover the internet usage rate by country, showcasing the percentage of the population online. This statistic highlights digital accessibility and connectivity trends globally, emphasizing the importance of internet access in today's world.

210 data points•Updated 12/31/2025•World•International Telecommunication Union (ITU)•

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Complete Data Rankings

Rank
1	Canada	65.956 %
2	Bermuda	60.991 %
3	China, Hong Kong SAR	56.4 %
4	Austria	54.28 %
5	Belgium	53.86 %
6	Barbados	49.8 %
7	Czech Republic	35.5 %
8	Cyprus	33.83 %
9	China, Macao SAR	31.484 %
10	Croatia	30.91 %
11	Brunei Darussalam	29.716 %
12	Chile	28.178 %
13	Andorra	26.838 %
14	Antigua and Barbuda	24.267 %
15	Aruba	23 %
16	Bahamas	22 %
17	Bahrain	21.459 %
18	Costa Rica	20.792 %
19	Brazil	19.074 %
20	Bulgaria	18.13 %
21	Argentina	16.037 %
22	Bosnia and Herzegovina	15.469 %
23	Belize	9.8 %
24	Colombia	9.119 %
25	Cuba	8.408 %
26	China	7.3 %
27	Cabo Verde	5.319 %
28	Armenia	4.899 %
29	Algeria	4.634 %
30	Bolivia	4.44 %
31	Botswana	3.305 %
32	Bhutan	3.157 %
33	Albania	2.42 %
34	Comoros	1.327 %
35	Benin	1.183 %
36	Congo	1.078 %
37	Cameroon	0.976 %
38	Côte d'Ivoire	0.849 %
39	Angola	0.465 %
40	Chad	0.361 %
41	Burundi	0.349 %
42	Central African Republic	0.223 %
43	Bangladesh	0.199 %
44	Afghanistan	0.106 %
45	Australia	NaN %
46	Azerbaijan	NaN %
47	Belarus	NaN %
48	British Virgin Islands	NaN %
49	Burkina Faso	0.4 %
50	Cambodia	0.3 %
51	Cayman Islands	NaN %
52	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	0.196 %
53	Curaçao	NaN %
54	Iceland	83.88 %
55	Denmark	80.93 %
56	Finland	72.39 %
57	Faroe Islands	66.534 %
58	Germany	64.73 %
59	Japan	62.394 %
60	Greenland	56.099 %
61	Estonia	53.2 %
62	France	39.15 %
63	Latvia	38.58 %
64	Ireland	36.99 %
65	Guam	36.162 %
66	Italy	33.24 %
67	Gibraltar	32.886 %
68	Dominica	30.32 %
69	Hungary	27.74 %
70	Kuwait	22.927 %
71	Israel	22.771 %
72	Greece	21.42 %
73	Grenada	19.571 %
74	French Polynesia	17.885 %
75	Egypt	11.92 %
76	Jordan	11.659 %
77	Jamaica	10 %
78	Dominican Republic	8.866 %
79	Iran	7.49 %
80	Fiji	7.413 %
81	Honduras	5.6 %
82	Haiti	5.401 %
83	Guatemala	5.1 %
84	Kyrgyzstan	5.09 %
85	Ecuador	4.834 %
86	Georgia	3.886 %
87	Guyana	3.7 %
88	Kiribati	3.5 %
89	Gambia	3.308 %
90	Eswatini	3.229 %
91	El Salvador	3.2 %
92	Kenya	3.024 %
93	Gabon	2.979 %
94	Kazakhstan	2.65 %
95	Indonesia	2.6 %
96	Guinea-Bissau	1.808 %
97	Equatorial Guinea	0.844 %
98	Djibouti	0.781 %
99	Eritrea	NaN %
100	India	1.976 %
101	Ghana	1.717 %
102	Iraq	0.9 %
103	Guinea	0.509 %
104	Ethiopia	0.155 %
105	Kosovo	NaN %
106	Norway	77.69 %
107	Netherlands	68.52 %
108	Luxembourg	65.88 %
109	Liechtenstein	64.007 %
110	New Zealand	61.848 %
111	Monaco	52.49 %
112	Malaysia	42.252 %
113	Malta	34.62 %
114	Poland	32.53 %
115	Portugal	31.78 %
116	Lithuania	31.23 %
117	New Caledonia	30.298 %
118	Palau	26.97 %
119	Montenegro	25.35 %
120	Saint Kitts and Nevis	24.738 %
121	North Macedonia	24.44 %
122	Puerto Rico	22.131 %
123	Qatar	20.702 %
124	Romania	15 %
125	Mexico	14.1 %
126	Peru	14.1 %
127	Mauritius	13.689 %
128	Russia	12.859 %
129	Morocco	11.608 %
130	Panama	11.141 %
131	Micronesia (Fed. States of)	11.018 %
132	Republic of Moldova	10.629 %
133	Lebanon	9 %
134	Oman	6.759 %
135	Maldives	6.588 %
136	Pakistan	6.164 %
137	Philippines	5.244 %
138	Namibia	3.805 %
139	Marshall Islands	3.6 %
140	Libya	3.533 %
141	Paraguay	3.452 %
142	Nicaragua	2.321 %
143	Lesotho	2.176 %
144	Papua New Guinea	1.508 %
145	Nigeria	1.286 %
146	Mozambique	0.679 %
147	Madagascar	0.525 %
148	Mauritania	0.481 %
149	Nepal	0.45 %
150	Mali	0.433 %
151	Rwanda	0.431 %
152	Malawi	0.348 %
153	Niger	0.19 %
154	Liberia	0.031 %
155	Mongolia	NaN %
156	Myanmar	0.024 %
157	Nauru	NaN %
158	Sweden	83.89 %
159	South Korea	72.7 %
160	Switzerland	67.8 %
161	United Kingdom	65.61 %
162	United States	64.758 %
163	Singapore	62 %
164	Slovakia	52.89 %
165	San Marino	50.566 %
166	Spain	44.01 %
167	Slovenia	40.81 %
168	United Arab Emirates	30.131 %
169	United States Virgin Islands	27.377 %
170	Trinidad and Tobago	27.024 %
171	Seychelles	24.272 %
172	Serbia	23.5 %
173	Saint Lucia	21.395 %
174	Uruguay	17.063 %
175	Turkey	14.58 %
176	Sao Tome and Principe	13.323 %
177	Thailand	10.677 %
178	Saudi Arabia	10.235 %
179	Tunisia	8.529 %
180	South Africa	8.425 %
181	Venezuela	8.404 %
182	Vietnam	7.642 %
183	Tuvalu	7.6 %
184	Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	7.371 %
185	Suriname	6.076 %
186	Vanuatu	4.747 %
187	State of Palestine	4.401 %
188	Senegal	4.386 %
189	Syrian Arab Republic	4.322 %
190	Tonga	3.952 %
191	Ukraine	3.489 %
192	Samoa	3.076 %
193	Uzbekistan	2.594 %
194	Zimbabwe	2.1 %
195	Togo	1.5 %
196	Sri Lanka	1.446 %
197	Zambia	1.1 %
198	Somalia	1.053 %
199	Yemen	0.881 %
200	Tanzania	0.878 %
201	Sudan	0.792 %
202	Turkmenistan	0.754 %
203	Uganda	0.72 %
204	Solomon Islands	0.65 %
205	Laos	0.361 %
206	Sierra Leone	0.203 %
207	South Sudan	NaN %
208	Tajikistan	0.077 %
209	North Korea	0 %
210	Timor-Leste	NaN %

↑Top 10 Countries

Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.

↓Bottom 10 Countries

Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.

Analysis & Context

In 2004, the global landscape of internet connectivity was a tapestry of varying levels of digital engagement across countries, with significant implications for socio-economic development and communication trends. The Internet Usage Rate by Country (% of Population) is an essential metric that provides a snapshot of how different nations were embracing the digital age. This measure highlights the percentage of each country's population that had access to the internet, offering insights into digital accessibility and connectivity trends worldwide.

Insights into the Digital Divide

The year 2004 showcased a noticeable digital divide, with certain regions significantly outpacing others in internet penetration. Scandinavia emerged as a leader in digital accessibility, with Sweden at the forefront, boasting an impressive 83.89% of its population online. Following closely were other Nordic countries like Iceland at 83.88% and Denmark at 80.93%. These high rates reflect not only the advanced technological infrastructure in these countries but also their socio-economic conditions that support widespread internet access. In contrast, countries like North Korea and Myanmar reported minimum internet usage rates, illustrating the stark disparities in global digital engagement.

Economic Development and Internet Access

There is a strong correlation between a country's economic development and its internet usage rates, as evidenced by 2004 data. Developed nations such as Norway (77.69%) and Canada (65.956%) show high percentages of internet penetration, underlining the role of robust economies in fostering technological infrastructure. Conversely, less economically developed countries, such as Liberia (0.031011%) and Afghanistan (0.105809%), struggled with low rates of internet access due to limited resources and infrastructure challenges. This disparity highlights the need for strategic investments in digital infrastructure to bridge the digital divide and support economic growth in under-connected regions.

Year-over-Year Transformations

The year 2004 witnessed notable changes in internet usage across various countries, reflecting a global trend towards increased connectivity. Notably, Japan experienced a significant rise in internet users, with a 13.96% increase, pointing to its rapid technological advancements and consumer adoption of digital tools. Meanwhile, Andorra saw a staggering 98.1% increase, indicative of targeted efforts to enhance digital infrastructure. These transformations underscore the dynamic nature of internet usage and the impact of technological policies and initiatives. However, some declines were recorded, such as in Oman, which saw a slight decrease of 0.50%, suggesting fluctuations in regional internet growth rates.

Regional Clustering Trends

The data from 2004 also revealed intriguing patterns of regional clustering, where neighboring countries shared similar internet usage rates. For instance, the Nordic countries, including Sweden, Iceland, and Denmark, formed a cluster of high connectivity. This clustering can be attributed to shared cultural, economic, and policy frameworks promoting internet access. In contrast, many African nations such as Ethiopia (0.155335%) and Niger (0.189934%) were grouped in the lower spectrum of internet usage due to systemic challenges in infrastructure and technology adoption. Understanding these regional trends is crucial for formulating policies that encourage regional cooperation in digital development.

Future Forecasts for Internet Connectivity

Looking ahead from 2004, the trajectory of global internet usage hinted at continued growth and expansion, driven by technological advancements and decreasing costs of digital access. The increasing availability of mobile internet was poised to revolutionize connectivity in developing regions, offering new opportunities for education, commerce, and communication. Countries with low internet penetration were likely to experience significant growth as investments in digital infrastructure took hold. As the world moved further into the digital era, the lessons from 2004 underscored the importance of bridging the digital divide to ensure equitable access to the benefits of the internet for all countries and populations.

In summary, the Internet Usage Rate by Country (% of Population) in 2004 paints a vivid picture of the global digital landscape. With stark contrasts between the most and least connected nations, the data highlights both progress and challenges in achieving universal digital access. As we reflect on these insights, it becomes clear that strategic efforts to enhance internet infrastructure and accessibility are vital for fostering global connectivity and socio-economic development.

Insights by country

Guinea

In 2004, Guinea had an internet usage rate of 0.51% of its population, ranking it 176 out of 210 countries in terms of internet accessibility. This low percentage reflects the limited technological infrastructure and high levels of poverty that characterized the nation during this period.

The low internet penetration in Guinea can be attributed to several factors, including inadequate telecommunications infrastructure, high costs associated with internet access, and a lack of digital literacy among the population. These challenges were compounded by political instability and economic difficulties that hindered investment in technology and education.

Moreover, in contrast to global trends, where internet use was rapidly increasing, Guinea's internet landscape remained underdeveloped. By 2004, many countries were beginning to embrace the digital age, while Guinea lagged significantly behind, highlighting the disparities in technological advancement across the globe.

Lebanon

In 2004, Lebanon ranked 97th out of 210 countries in terms of internet usage, with an internet penetration rate of 9% of the population. This relatively low percentage reflects the country's emerging status in the digital landscape during that period.

The limited internet usage can be attributed to several factors, including a lack of infrastructure, socio-economic challenges, and the political instability that has historically affected the region. Furthermore, the high cost of internet services and limited access in rural areas have posed significant barriers to widespread adoption.

As a point of comparison, neighboring countries in the region often had higher internet penetration rates, highlighting the disparities in technological advancement. The low internet usage rate in Lebanon in 2004 serves as a starting point for understanding the evolution of digital connectivity in the country over the subsequent years.

El Salvador

In 2004, El Salvador ranked 139th out of 210 countries in terms of internet usage, with an estimated 3.2% of the population having access to the internet. This relatively low figure reflects the early stages of internet adoption in the country, as many regions were still developing the necessary infrastructure.

Several factors contributed to this limited internet usage rate, including economic constraints, lack of technological infrastructure, and low levels of digital literacy among the population. The aftermath of the civil war and ongoing socio-economic challenges further hindered the expansion of internet services.

By comparison, neighboring countries were also experiencing similar challenges, but El Salvador's slower internet adoption was particularly evident in rural areas where access to technology was even more restricted. As of the early 2000s, the potential for growth in connectivity was significant, with increasing investments in telecommunications expected to improve the situation in subsequent years.

Argentina

In 2004, Argentina had an internet usage rate of 16.0367%, ranking 77th out of 210 countries in terms of the percentage of its population using the internet. This figure reflects the early stages of internet adoption in the country, as the global digital landscape was still developing.

The relatively low internet penetration rate can be attributed to various factors, including economic challenges, limited infrastructure, and high costs associated with internet access at that time. Additionally, urban-rural disparities in access to technology played a significant role in limiting internet usage in less developed areas.

Despite these challenges, Argentina has made significant strides in internet accessibility in subsequent years, with improvements in technology infrastructure and a growing emphasis on digital inclusion. By 2021, the internet penetration rate in Argentina had risen dramatically, showcasing the country’s commitment to enhancing connectivity for its citizens.

Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan ranked 144th out of 210 countries in terms of internet usage rate in 2004, with a reported 2.65% of its population utilizing the internet. This relatively low percentage reflects the early stages of internet adoption in the country, which was transitioning from a Soviet-era infrastructure to a more modern telecommunications framework.

The low internet usage rate can be attributed to several factors, including limited access to technology, high costs associated with internet services, and a lack of widespread digital literacy among the population. Additionally, the vast geographical expanse of Kazakhstan poses challenges for the establishment of comprehensive internet infrastructure, particularly in rural and remote areas.

By 2004, Kazakhstan was still in the process of developing its information and communication technology (ICT) sector, which has since seen significant improvements. For context, the global average internet usage rate was considerably higher, indicating that many countries were already experiencing the benefits of digital connectivity.

British Virgin Islands

In 2004, the British Virgin Islands ranked 201 out of 210 countries in terms of Internet usage rate, with an Internet penetration rate of null % of the population. This ranking reflects a significant lack of access to the Internet during that period, which was indicative of broader challenges faced by the region.

Several factors contributed to the low Internet usage rate in the British Virgin Islands at the time, including limited infrastructure development, high costs associated with Internet access, and a smaller population that may have prioritized other forms of communication and information dissemination. Additionally, the early 2000s were a transitional period for many Caribbean nations in terms of technology adoption.

It is noteworthy that, since then, the British Virgin Islands have made substantial improvements in their telecommunications infrastructure, leading to higher Internet penetration rates in subsequent years. This change has been driven by increased investment in technology and a growing recognition of the importance of digital connectivity for economic development and social engagement.

Israel

In 2004, Israel had an internet usage rate of 22.77%, ranking 64th out of 210 countries in terms of population connectivity to the internet. This figure reflects a growing trend in digital access during the early 2000s, as the country was beginning to embrace technological advancements and the internet revolution.

The moderate penetration rate can be attributed to several factors, including economic development, government initiatives to promote technology, and a relatively high level of education among the populace, which facilitated the adoption of new technologies. However, during this period, infrastructure limitations and the socio-political landscape may have also impacted the speed of internet adoption.

By 2004, Israel was already recognized for its innovation and technology sector, which would later contribute to a surge in internet usage as more services and content became available online. This early stage of internet adoption laid the groundwork for Israel to become a leader in technology and innovation in the following decades.

Gabon

In 2004, Gabon had an internet usage rate of 2.97907% of its population, ranking 143rd out of 210 countries in terms of internet access. This low percentage reflects the country's limited digital infrastructure and the nascent stage of internet penetration during that period.

Several factors contributed to Gabon's internet usage rate in 2004, including a lack of widespread telecommunications infrastructure, relatively high costs of internet access, and limited digital literacy among the population. Additionally, the urban-rural divide affected access, with urban areas having better connectivity compared to rural regions.

By comparison, neighboring countries in Africa were also experiencing similar challenges, but Gabon has since made strides in expanding internet access and improving infrastructure, which has led to a significant increase in internet usage in subsequent years.

Antigua and Barbuda

In 2004, Antigua and Barbuda had an Internet usage rate of 24.27% of its population, ranking 60th out of 210 countries in terms of connectivity. This statistic illustrates the early adoption of internet technology in the Caribbean region, particularly for a nation of its size and population.

The relatively high usage rate for this period can be attributed to several factors, including the country's focus on developing its telecommunications infrastructure and the increasing accessibility of technology in urban areas. Furthermore, the growth of tourism and the demand for information services likely contributed to the rise in internet penetration.

Interestingly, as of 2004, many Caribbean nations were beginning to embrace digital technologies, with varying levels of success. This trend indicated a shift towards modernization and economic diversification, moving from traditional industries towards a more digital economy.

Eswatini

In 2004, Eswatini ranked 138th out of 210 countries in terms of internet usage, with a penetration rate of 3.23% of its population accessing the internet. This relatively low rate of internet usage can be attributed to several factors, including limited infrastructure, high costs of internet access, and a significant portion of the population living in rural areas where connectivity is less reliable.

Additionally, the socioeconomic context of Eswatini, characterized by high levels of poverty and unemployment, contributed to the slow adoption of internet technology during this period. The digital divide in the country reflects broader issues of access to education and technology, which have historically hindered technological advancement and overall development.

As of 2004, internet usage in Eswatini was significantly lower than the global average, highlighting the challenges faced by many developing nations in bridging the digital gap. This situation has evolved in subsequent years, with increasing efforts to improve internet infrastructure and accessibility.

Data Source

International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

ITU is the United Nations specialized agency for digital technologies (ICTs). The Organization is made up of a membership of 194 Member States and more than 1000 companies, universities and international and regional organizations. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and with regional offices on every continent, ITU is the oldest agency in the UN family – has been connecting people for over 160 years.

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Historical Data by Year

Explore Internet Usage Rate by Country (% of Population) data across different years. Compare trends and see how statistics have changed over time.

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