The Russian public Wi-Fi market reached 5,2 ₽ billion in 2025, marking an 8,4% year-over-year growth according to TMT Consulting. Wireless networks are increasingly integrated into core business infrastructure rather than serving solely as guest access points.
Rostelecom emerged as the market leader by the end of 2025, capturing a 34% share with revenue of approximately 1,77 ₽ billion. Large enterprises account for 64% of the market revenue, while small and medium-sized businesses and government clients each represent 18%.
Demand for public Wi-Fi was driven by intermittent mobile internet restrictions in various Russian regions, prompting businesses to seek alternative connectivity. Retailers, banks, hotels, and public institutions are among the primary sectors adopting these solutions.
Retail businesses now utilize Wi-Fi to support point-of-sale systems, payment terminals, and loyalty programs, often migrating equipment from LTE to corporate Wi-Fi networks. This shift has transformed wireless access from a secondary service into essential infrastructure.
By the end of 2025, Rostelecom operated nearly 130 000 public Wi-Fi access points, excluding its digital divide project infrastructure. This represents a 16% increase over the year, primarily fueled by new projects for corporate and government clients.
