Have you ever noticed your internet suddenly becoming slow — even after buying a data bundle? You’re not alone.
Many Ugandans using Airtel and MTN have experienced random speed drops, especially when streaming, downloading, or using VPNs.
Understanding Internet Throttling
What Exactly Is “Throttling”?
Throttling is when your internet provider (like Airtel or MTN) intentionally slows down your connection speed after you’ve used a certain amount of data – even on supposedly “unlimited” plans.
Imagine paying for a firehose of data but suddenly getting just a trickle – that’s throttling in action.
Who Are ISPs and Why Do They Throttle?
ISPs (Internet Service Providers) are the companies that provide your internet connection. In Uganda, the major ISPs are:
- MTN Uganda
- Airtel Uganda
What Causes Your Internet to Slow Down?
Ugandan providers (Airtel, MTN, Africell) use three throttling tactics:
- Hidden Data Caps
- “Unlimited” plans often slow speeds after 10GB (MTN) or 5GB (Airtel)
- Peak-Hour Throttling
- 7PM-11PM speeds drop 60% (per UCC speed tests)
- Video Streaming Blocks
- YouTube/Netflix forced to 480p unless you buy “HD Passes”
Here are the common reasons:
1. Data Throttling
After using a certain amount of data, your ISP (Airtel or MTN) may reduce your speed. This is especially common with “unlimited” or night bundles.
2. Network Congestion
When too many people use the same tower (e.g., during the evening), speeds drop.
3. Fair Usage Policies (FUP)
Some bundles come with hidden limits. After exceeding them, speed is intentionally slowed.
4. Suspicious Activity
If you’re using a VPN or streaming foreign content, some ISPs may throttle speeds automatically.
How to Know If You’re Being Throttled
Your ISP is likely throttling you if:
- YouTube buffers constantly (stuck at 360p/480p)
- Social media takes forever to load
- Your internet is fast in morning but slow at night
- Speed tests show much slower speeds than advertised
- Torrents/downloads start fast then crawl to a halt
How to Bypass or Reduce Throttling
1. Switch APNs (Access Point Names)
Sometimes, using a different APN can change how your traffic is routed.
For MTN:
-
Default:
internet.mtn.co.ug -
Try:
web.gprs.mtnuganda.net
For Airtel:
-
Default:
internet -
Try:
wap, or contact Airtel for alternative settings.
Tip: Create a new APN profile and switch between them to test speeds.
2. Use a VPN – The Most Effective Solution
A VPN encrypts your traffic so ISPs can’t see what you’re doing or throttle specific activities.
Best VPNs for Uganda:
- NordVPN (Best all-around for bypassing throttling)
- ExpressVPN (Fastest speeds for streaming)
- Surfshark (Most affordable premium option)
How to use:
- Download and install your chosen VPN
- Connect to a server in Kenya or Europe
- Enjoy your full internet speed again!
3. Switch to Cloudflare DNS (Faster Browsing)
Changing your DNS can speed up website loading times significantly.
Recommended DNS Settings:
- Primary: 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare)
- Secondary: 8.8.8.8 (Google)
Easy Method:
- Download “1.1.1.1” app from Play Store
- Enable the DNS service with one tap
4. TTL Modification (Advanced Users Only)
This technical trick makes your phone appear as a hotspot device to bypass some limits.
Basic Instructions:
- Install Termux from Play Store
- Enter special commands to modify TTL value
- Reboot your device
Note: Requires some technical knowledge
ISP Speed Reality Check
⚠️ Important Truth: No “unlimited” plan is truly unlimited in Uganda. All major providers have hidden limits:
| Provider | Plan | Typical Full-Speed Limit |
|---|---|---|
| MTN | Unlimited Lite | ~10GB |
| Airtel | Night Unlimited | ~5GB |
Plus: All providers slow down video streaming by default unless you pay extra for “HD passes.”
Smart User Strategies
For most people:
- Start with a VPN (NordVPN works best consistently)
- Combine with DNS change for fastest browsing
- Monitor your usage patterns to avoid hitting hidden limits
Pro Tip: Test your actual speed at different times using fast.com to confirm when throttling occurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is bypassing throttling illegal?
A: No, but networks may block VPNs during sensitive times like elections.
Q: Why is my internet so slow at night?
A: Network congestion – too many users online simultaneously.
Q: Will these methods work long-term?
A: Most do, though ISPs occasionally find ways around VPNs. We update this guide as methods evolve.
Final Recommendations
Don’t let your Internet Service Provider(ISP) control your internet experience. With these 2025 methods, you can:
- Regain your full internet speeds
- Stream without buffering
- Browse without frustrating delays
Try this action plan:
- Get NordVPN (most reliable solution)
- Change your DNS to 1.1.1.1
- Monitor your speeds before/after
Have another working method? Share it in the comments to help others!
