Everything you need to know about setting up internet service, providers, costs, and considerations for new immigrants
Overview of Israel’s Internet System
Israel has one of the most advanced internet infrastructures in the world, with widespread fiber optic availability and high-speed connectivity. However, the system operates differently from many other countries, requiring understanding of its unique structure and setup process.
Key Features of Israeli Internet
- Two-Component System: Infrastructure (Tashtit) and Service Provider (Sapak) are separate
- Advanced Technology: Widespread fiber optic deployment across the country
- Multiple Options: Numerous providers offering various speeds and packages
- Competitive Market: Strong competition leading to innovation and options
- Language Considerations: Most providers operate primarily in Hebrew
Understanding the Two-Component System
Tashtit (Infrastructure)
In Israel, home internet service is divided into 2 separate services. There is the Tashtit (translated to infrastructure) and there is the Sapak (provider). What this means is that there are actually 2 distinct services needed; Tashtit-a company that owns and manages the infrastructure.
Infrastructure Providers:
- Bezeq: Israel’s leading telecom company with the most extensive infrastructure
- HOT: Cable-based infrastructure provider (primarily TV company)
What Infrastructure Includes:
- Physical connection to your home (fiber, DSL, or cable)
- Modem/router equipment (usually rented)
- Basic connectivity capability
Sapak (Internet Service Provider)
And Sapak-the Internet Service Provider (ISP). The above can be purchased together or separately, and even if it is purchased together, the service comes from different companies.
Major ISP Providers:
- Bezeq International: Bezeq’s ISP division
- Partner: Major mobile and internet provider (formerly Orange)
- Cellcom: Mobile company with internet services
- Netvision: Independent ISP provider
- TCS Telecom: English-focused provider for international residents
Setting Up Internet Service
Step 1: Internet Infrastructure (Tashtit)
To begin the process, one must obtain internet infrastructure (tashtit). This refers to a phone line that brings internet capability to one’s house. The service can be provided either by Bezeq or by HOT cable.
Bezeq Infrastructure:
- Most widely available throughout Israel
- Fiber optic and DSL options
- Generally reliable service
- Standard choice for most areas
HOT Infrastructure:
- Cable-based system
- Being that HOT is essentially a cable television company, they do not offer their services in many chareidi neighborhoods
- Good speeds but limited coverage in some religious neighborhoods
Step 2: Choose Your ISP
Companies that provide internet service in Israel include: Partner, Cellcom, and Bezeq.
Selection Criteria:
- Speed requirements
- Pricing and contract terms
- Customer service language preferences
- Bundle options (TV, phone, mobile)
- Technical support quality
Step 3: Installation Process
Installation Timeline:
- Once you have contacted a phone company, a line should be installed within two to three days
Installation Costs:
- Bezeq: Installation fees tend to range from 100 to 200 NIS
- HOT: Installation fees are usually around 150 to 250 NIS
- Cellcom: Expect to pay about 100 to 200 NIS for installation
- Partner: Installation fees are in the ballpark of 150 to 250 NIS
- TCS Telecom: Similar 100 to 200 NIS, but expect fairly low prices and great service quality
Technology Types and Speeds
Fiber Optic Internet
Israel is undergoing a massive fiber optic rollout, offering the fastest speeds available:
Fiber Advantages:
- Speeds up to 1GB (1000 Mbps) and higher
- More reliable than copper-based connections
- Better upload speeds
- Future-proof technology
Current Pricing:
- Monthly rate for a 600-megabyte fiber package from leading providers ranges from Bezeq’s NIS 129/month plan for the first 12 months to Hot’s NIS 109/month package after three months of paying NIS 59
DSL Internet
Traditional copper-line internet still widely available:
- Speeds typically up to 100-200 Mbps
- More affordable than fiber
- Available in areas without fiber coverage
- Reliable for basic internet needs
Cable Internet
Provided primarily through HOT infrastructure:
- Speeds up to 500 Mbps
- Shared bandwidth with neighbors
- Good for multimedia streaming
- Bundled with TV services
Equipment and Hardware
Modem/Router Equipment
The company that provides the internet infrastructure will also supply a modem/router. Generally, the company maintains ownership of this device and it needs to be returned when the line is canceled.
Equipment Options:
- Rental: With some plans, use of the router is included for free, while others charge a monthly rental fee
- Purchase: Buying your own modem or router can cost between 200 to 400 NIS as a one-time cost
- Pickup Requirements: Often the router will need to be picked up from a Bezeq or HOT location
Advanced Equipment
For tech-savvy users wanting better control:
- Third-party routers for better performance
- Mesh systems for large homes
- Business-grade equipment for home offices
Costs and Pricing
Monthly Service Costs
Internet pricing varies significantly based on speed, provider, and contract terms:
Basic Plans: ₪50-80/month for DSL speeds Mid-Range Plans: ₪80-150/month for faster speeds Fiber Plans: ₪100-200/month for high-speed fiber Premium Plans: ₪150+/month for maximum speeds
Additional Costs
Setup Fees: ₪100-250 one-time installation Equipment: ₪0-400 depending on rental vs. purchase Early Termination: Penalties for breaking contracts early Service Calls: Additional fees for technical support visits
Contract Considerations
Promotional Pricing: Many providers offer discounted rates for the first 6-12 months Contract Length: Typically 12-24 month commitments Price Increases: Be aware of automatic rate increases after promotional periods Bundle Discounts: Often cheaper to bundle internet with TV, phone, or mobile services
Special Considerations for New Immigrants
Language Barriers
However, people who have just arrived in Israel need help to get their questions answered and communicate with customer support. This is the main complaint newly arrived Olim have about mainstream internet providers.
Common Challenges:
- Most customer service operates in Hebrew
- Technical terminology can be complex
- Contract terms may be difficult to understand
- Billing inquiries require Hebrew communication
English-Language Providers
Unless you sign up with English-first companies like TCS Telecom, you can expect some delays and challenges due to communication difficulties.
TCS Telecom Advantages for Olim:
- English-speaking customer service
- Simplified setup process for newcomers
- Competitive pricing and speeds
- Understanding of olim needs and challenges
No Special Olim Discounts
Important: Unlike some other services, there are typically no special discounts available for new immigrants (olim) for internet service. All residents generally pay the same rates.
Alternative Savings Options:
- Promotional rates for new customers (available to everyone)
- Bundle discounts for multiple services
- Student discounts (where applicable)
- Negotiating better rates after promotional periods end
Provider Comparisons
Bezeq International
Strengths:
- Most extensive infrastructure
- Reliable service
- Wide coverage area
- Established company
Considerations:
- Primarily Hebrew customer service
- Can be more expensive
- Less flexibility in plans
Partner (formerly Orange)
Strengths:
- Competitive pricing
- Good customer service reputation
- Mobile and internet bundles
- Fiber optic options
Considerations:
- Limited infrastructure (uses others’ networks)
- Variable service quality by area
Cellcom
Strengths:
- Strong mobile integration
- Good bundle options
- Competitive speeds
- Established network
Considerations:
- Primarily mobile-focused company
- Limited standalone internet options
TCS Telecom
Strengths:
- English-speaking customer service
- Olim-friendly approach
- Competitive pricing
- Fiber optic specialization
- Simplified setup process
Considerations:
- Newer company
- Limited brand recognition
- May use other companies’ infrastructure
HOT
Strengths:
- Cable infrastructure
- TV bundle options
- Good speeds in coverage areas
- Competitive pricing
Considerations:
- Limited coverage in religious neighborhoods
- Primarily TV company
- Cable technology limitations
Setup Process Step-by-Step
Pre-Setup Research
- Check Available Infrastructure: Determine what’s available in your area
- Compare Providers: Research ISP options and pricing
- Assess Needs: Determine speed requirements and budget
- Language Considerations: Choose provider based on customer service needs
Ordering Service
- Contact Provider: Call or visit provider website
- Choose Package: Select internet speed and contract terms
- Schedule Installation: Arrange technician visit
- Prepare Documentation: Have ID and banking information ready
Installation Day
- Technician Visit: Professional installation of equipment
- Testing: Verify service is working properly
- Training: Learn how to use equipment and customer portal
- Documentation: Receive contracts and equipment information
Post-Installation
- Test Speeds: Verify you’re getting promised speeds
- Set Up Wi-Fi: Configure wireless network and security
- Customer Account: Set up online billing and support access
- Contact Information: Save customer service numbers
Troubleshooting and Support
Common Issues
Slow Speeds: Check for interference, outdated equipment, or network congestion Connection Drops: May indicate infrastructure problems or equipment issues Wi-Fi Problems: Often related to router placement or interference Billing Questions: Contact customer service for clarification
Getting Support
Bezeq Support: Primarily Hebrew, some English available Partner Support: Good reputation, limited English TCS Telecom: Full English support for international residents HOT Support: Primarily Hebrew-speaking customer service
Self-Help Options
- Online speed testing tools
- Router restart procedures
- Basic troubleshooting guides
- Community forums and support groups
Mobile Internet Alternatives
Mobile Hotspots
For temporary or mobile internet needs:
- USB dongles with data SIM cards
- Mobile hotspot devices
- Smartphone tethering
- 5G speeds in major cities
5G Availability
Most mobile phone network providers offer 5G speed in Israel. However, the most popular hotspots for what is currently the fastest connectivity are mostly centered around big cities like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, or Haifa.
Internet for Remote Work
Business Requirements
For working from home or running a business:
- Higher upload speeds for video calls
- Reliable connection with minimal downtime
- Static IP addresses for servers
- Priority customer support
Recommendations
- Fiber optic for best reliability
- Business plans for guaranteed speeds
- Backup connection (mobile) for redundancy
- Professional equipment for better performance
Future of Internet in Israel
Fiber Optic Expansion
Israel is aggressively rolling out fiber optic infrastructure:
- Government push for nationwide coverage
- Increasing availability in smaller cities
- Improved speeds and reliability
- Competitive pricing as deployment expands
5G Integration
- Mobile carriers investing heavily in 5G
- Potential alternative to fixed-line internet
- Integration with home internet solutions
- Enhanced mobile internet experiences
Tips for New Residents
Negotiation Strategies
Internet service providers in particular are negotiable, so don’t hesitate to bargain. When the service commitment period is about to end, give your internet provider a call and ask for an additional special price period.
Money-Saving Tips
- Compare Promotional Offers: New customer deals can provide significant savings
- Bundle Services: Often cheaper than individual services
- Negotiate Renewal: Don’t accept automatic rate increases
- Consider Annual Payment: Some providers offer discounts for paying yearly
- Monitor Usage: Ensure you’re not paying for more speed than needed
Language Preparation
Hebrew Terms to Know:
- Tashtit (תשתית) - Infrastructure
- Sapak (ספק) - Provider
- Internet (אינטרנט) - Internet
- Mahirut (מהירות) - Speed
- Cheshbon (חשבון) - Bill/Account
Summary
Internet service in Israel offers world-class speeds and technology, but requires understanding of the unique two-component system and careful provider selection. While there are no special discounts for new immigrants, competitive pricing and promotional offers provide opportunities for savings.
Key Points for New Residents:
- Two-Component System: Separate infrastructure (Tashtit) and ISP (Sapak) services
- No Olim Discounts: Internet services don’t offer immigration-based discounts
- Language Considerations: Most providers operate primarily in Hebrew
- English-Language Options: TCS Telecom and some others cater to English speakers
- Advanced Technology: Fiber optic widely available with excellent speeds
- Installation Costs: ₪100-250 setup fees plus monthly service charges
- Negotiable Pricing: Providers often negotiate, especially for renewals
- Quick Installation: Service typically available within 2-3 days
- Multiple Options: Choose based on speed needs, budget, and language requirements
Understanding Israel’s internet landscape will help you select the best provider and package for your needs while avoiding common pitfalls during the setup process. The investment in quality internet service is worthwhile given Israel’s excellent infrastructure and competitive market.
