Faiba is the top-performing fixed internet service provider in Kenya according to the newly released nPerf Barometer Report covering the period from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. The report, based on millions of user-initiated tests across the country, ranks providers by overall performance, download and upload speeds, latency, web browsing, and video streaming quality.
Faiba achieved the highest overall nPerf score, outperforming competitors in multiple categories including download speeds and browsing performance. Safaricom ranked second overall and led in video streaming performance. Zuku, while coming third in overall score, delivered the best latency results, making it a strong option for users needing real-time responsiveness such as gamers and remote workers. Mawingu WiFi, although last in ranking, remains a key access point for affordable internet, particularly in underserved areas.
Overall Performance Rankings
The nPerf score is a composite measure based on all test categories including speed, latency, and quality of experience.
| Provider | nPerf Score | Download Speed (Mbps) | Upload Speed (Mbps) | Latency (ms) | Browsing Quality (%) | Streaming Quality (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Faiba | 53,975 | 33.11 | 29.68 | 49.69 | 39.3 | 69.74 |
| Safaricom | 51,709 | 29.00 | 21.42 | 48.93 | 37.25 | 72.07 |
| Zuku | 51,394 | 25.44 | 22.76 | 41.80 | 38.19 | 69.28 |
| Mawingu WiFi | 24,430 | 7.24 | 6.97 | 48.63 | 27.36 | 48.71 |
Faiba topped the rankings with the fastest average download speed at 33.11 Mbps and the best web browsing quality at 39.3 percent. It also posted the second-best upload speed. Safaricom was close behind and stood out for having the best video streaming quality at 72.07 percent. Zuku offered the lowest latency at 41.8 milliseconds, crucial for real-time applications like video conferencing and online gaming. Mawingu WiFi’s results were modest but consistent with its market positioning as a more accessible and affordable provider.
Download and Upload Speed Comparison
Download and upload speeds directly affect how quickly users can consume and send content online. Faiba and Safaricom consistently led in both categories.
Download Speeds
| Provider | Average Download Speed (Mbps) |
|---|---|
| Faiba | 33.11 |
| Safaricom | 29.00 |
| Zuku | 25.44 |
| Mawingu WiFi | 7.24 |
Upload Speeds
| Provider | Average Upload Speed (Mbps) |
|---|---|
| Faiba | 29.68 |
| Zuku | 22.76 |
| Safaricom | 21.42 |
| Mawingu WiFi | 6.97 |
Faiba’s dominance in both categories makes it ideal for heavy internet usage such as file transfers, streaming in high quality, and remote work that requires consistent upload performance.
Latency and Responsiveness
Latency measures the delay in communication between devices and servers. Lower latency is better for applications that need quick responsiveness.
| Provider | Average Latency (ms) |
|---|---|
| Zuku | 41.80 |
| Safaricom | 48.93 |
| Mawingu WiFi | 48.63 |
| Faiba | 49.69 |
Zuku offered the lowest latency, making it a strong option for users who prioritize video calls, online gaming, and live interactions.
Browsing and Streaming Experience
Quality of Experience metrics are essential for judging how well a connection performs in daily use, particularly for web browsing and video streaming.
Browsing Quality
| Provider | Browsing Success Rate (%) |
|---|---|
| Faiba | 39.3 |
| Zuku | 38.19 |
| Safaricom | 37.25 |
| Mawingu WiFi | 27.36 |
Video Streaming Quality (YouTube)
| Provider | Streaming Quality (%) |
|---|---|
| Safaricom | 72.07 |
| Faiba | 69.74 |
| Zuku | 69.28 |
| Mawingu WiFi | 48.71 |
Safaricom outperformed others in video streaming, providing the smoothest experience with less buffering and faster video loading.
WiFi Performance
The report also analyzed WiFi performance separately, which is how most households connect to the internet. Here again, Faiba and Safaricom stood out.
| Provider | WiFi Score | WiFi Download (Mbps) | WiFi Upload (Mbps) | WiFi Latency (ms) | WiFi Browsing (%) | WiFi Streaming (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Faiba | 49,281 | 21.39 | 17.90 | 50.35 | 40.83 | 71.23 |
| Safaricom | 48,849 | 20.87 | 17.88 | 46.81 | 38.87 | 71.24 |
| Zuku | 44,445 | 15.07 | 11.31 | 42.49 | 38.76 | 70.09 |
| Mawingu WiFi | 21,620 | 5.32 | 4.88 | 49.57 | 27.25 | 49.28 |
Faiba and Safaricom both posted excellent WiFi performance. Faiba led in browsing quality and upload speeds while Safaricom maintained its edge in streaming. Zuku again offered the lowest latency over WiFi, reinforcing its consistency across network responsiveness. Mawingu WiFi had the lowest scores but still provides valuable internet access for areas with fewer connectivity options.
Methodology
The nPerf Barometer Report is based on user-generated tests collected via the nPerf app and website. Only national internet service providers with more than five percent of the test share were included. The report analyzed results from both busy hours (6 PM to 11 PM) and idle hours (the rest of the day) to capture variations in network strain. The final scores are calculated using a logarithmic scale to better reflect perceived user experience.
Conclusion
The 2025 nPerf Barometer confirms that Kenya’s fixed internet market continues to offer a variety of strengths across providers. Faiba remains the most reliable and fastest option overall, especially for users prioritizing speed and browsing. Safaricom is the best choice for users who stream frequently, while Zuku stands out for responsiveness, making it ideal for video calls and gaming. Mawingu WiFi, though not the fastest, plays an important role in increasing internet penetration, particularly in underserved areas.
As demand for stable and fast home internet grows, this diversity in provider strengths ensures that users can find a service that fits their specific needs.
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