5 GB mobile plan
- 5 GB DK, 3 GB EU
- 5 hrs DK, 3 hrs EU, 3 hrs Intl.
1 GB eSIM (7 days)
- 1 GB, valid for 7 days
- Perfect for quick visits
40 GB mobile plan
- 40 GB DK, 10 GB EU
- 40 hrs DK, 5 hrs EU, 5 hrs Intl.
5G Internet
- Denmark's best 5G coverage on TDC NET
- Includes free 5G router
Fiber 1000/1000
- Wireless router included
Fiber 1000/1000
- No contract
- Router included
5G Internet
- Unlimited data
- 5G router included
Fiber 100/100
- Denmark's best internet
30 GB mobile plan
- 30 GB + 5G included
- No contract – cancel anytime
4G Internet
- 4G router included
- Streaming services can be added
Fiber 1000/1000
- Denmark's best internet
Fiber 1000/1000
- Guaranteed 900/900
- Wi-Fi 6
5G Internet
- Includes 5G router
- Add streaming services
5G Internet
- Free setup
- Free router included - Unlimited data
Fiber 500/500
- A future-proof connection
- Wi-Fi 6
4G Internet
- 1 year of Norton Antivirus for 0 DKK
- Free router included
20 GB eSIM (30 days)
- 20 GB, valid for 30 days
- Instant activation via eSIM
5G Internet
- Access to OiSTER+ benefits club
- Unlimited data
5G Internet - 25% discount
- Access to OiSTER+ benefits club
- Unlimited data
Coax 1000/1000
- Router included
5G
- Router included
5G Internet
- Wireless router included
Fiber 1000 Basic
- Router included
Coax 1000/500
- No contract
- Free setup included
Fiber 1000/1000
- No contract
- Free setup
Norlys is one of the largest energy and telecommunications groups in Denmark. It is a cooperative owned by its customers, primarily based in Jutland, but it operates as a nationwide service provider. For newcomers, Norlys internet represents a significant player in the market, having merged with and absorbed the well-known brand Stofa. They offer fiber broadband, cable internet (coax), and mobile broadband solutions across the country.
Understanding the structure of Norlys is helpful for expats. They are both an infrastructure owner (digging cables into the ground) and a service provider (selling the internet connection). However, due to open network regulations in Denmark, you can often choose Norlys as your provider even if the physical cables entering your house are owned by a competitor like TDC NET or Fibia. Conversely, if you live in a Norlys fiber area, you are not forced to use them; you can choose other providers that rent space on the Norlys network.
Requirements for Norlys Internet as an Expat
Getting an internet contract in Denmark is more bureaucratic than in many other countries. The digitization of Danish society means that your digital identity is tied to your ability to enter legal contracts.
The CPR Number Requirement
To sign a standard internet contract with Norlys, you generally need a Danish CPR number (Civil Registration Number). This number is used to perform a credit check. If you have just arrived and do not have your yellow health card (Sygesikringsbevis) yet, you will face difficulties signing up online. The online forms will reject applications without a valid CPR format. In these cases, you must visit a physical store or call customer service directly to see if a manual workaround is possible, though this is becoming increasingly rare.
MitID for Contract Validation
Denmark uses a digital signature system called MitID. When you order broadband online, you verify your identity and sign the binding agreement using the MitID app on your smartphone. If you have your CPR number but have not yet activated MitID, you cannot complete the self-service flow on the Norlys website. You will need to wait until your banking and digital ID setup is complete.
Payment Methods and Foreign Cards
Recurring payments in Denmark are handled through “Betalingsservice” (Direct Debit). Most internet providers, including Norlys, prefer this method. It automatically pulls the monthly bill from your Danish bank account. While some providers accept credit cards, foreign credit cards (Visa/Mastercard issued abroad) are frequently rejected for recurring monthly subscriptions due to anti-fraud measures and 3D Secure requirements. It is highly recommended to open a Danish bank account as soon as possible to handle utility bills.
Infrastructure and Coverage Checks
Denmark relies on an address-based system for internet availability. You cannot simply select a provider and assume they can service your apartment. The physical cables connected to your specific building dictate your options.
How the Address Check Works
Before looking at prices, you must enter your specific address on the Norlys website. The system queries the national infrastructure database. It will return one of three results:
- Fiber: You have a direct fiber optic connection. This is the fastest and most stable option.
- Coax (Cable TV): You have internet delivered via the TV antenna socket. This is common in older apartment buildings.
- Not Available: Norlys cannot service your address via fixed lines. In this case, they may offer 4G or 5G mobile broadband.
Open Networks
Norlys operates on open networks. This means they sell services on fiber networks owned by other utility companies. For example, if you live in an area where TDC NET owns the fiber, Norlys can still be your provider. This interoperability gives consumers more choice, but it also means that technical support might involve coordination between Norlys (your billing partner) and the network owner (the infrastructure partner).
Connection Types Explained
Norlys offers different technologies depending on where you live. Understanding the difference is vital for managing expectations regarding speed and latency.
Fiber Internet (FTTH)
Fiber internet in Denmark is the standard for high-performance connectivity. If your address shows fiber availability, the connection is Fiber-to-the-Home. This means the fiber optic cable runs directly into a box on your wall. Norlys fiber connections are typically symmetrical, meaning the upload speed matches the download speed (e.g., 1000/1000 Mbps). This is ideal for households with multiple people working from home, video conferencing, or gaming.
Cable Internet (Coax)
In many cities, Norlys delivers internet via the coaxial cables originally laid for cable television. This service was formerly known as Stofa. While download speeds on coax can be very high (often up to 1000 Mbps), upload speeds are usually lower (typically capped around 100 Mbps or 500 Mbps). The latency (ping) is slightly higher than fiber but generally stable enough for most users. You connect your router to the TV socket in the wall using a data splitter.
5G Mobile Broadband
If your home does not have a fixed line connection, Norlys offers internet via the mobile network. This involves a 5G router that requires only a power outlet. This is a flexible solution for short-term expats or those living in rural areas without fiber. However, speeds fluctuate based on your distance from the cell tower and network congestion.
Speeds and Pricing
The cost of internet in Denmark is competitive, but it varies based on the underlying technology at your address. Norlys positions itself as a premium provider with a focus on stability and included equipment.
| Connection Type | Typical Speed (Down/Up) | Latency (Ping) | Monthly Price Range (DKK) | Setup Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber (FTTH) | 200/200 to 2500/2500 Mbps | Low (1-5 ms) | 289 – 409 DKK | 2-4 weeks (if installed) |
| Cable (Coax) | 300/60 to 1000/100 Mbps | Medium (10-20 ms) | 249 – 369 DKK | 3-7 days |
| 5G Internet | 50 – 500 Mbps (Variable) | Variable (20-40 ms) | 229 – 299 DKK | 1-3 days |
Prices listed above are indicative standard rates. Providers frequently run introductory offers (e.g., half price for the first 3 or 6 months). When calculating the total cost, you must factor in the creation fee (oprettelse) and shipping fees for the router, though these are often waived during campaigns.
The “Setup Time” varies significantly. If you choose coax internet and the socket is already active, you simply receive the router by mail, plug it in, and are online. If you choose fiber and the cable has not yet been dug into your property, the process can take several weeks or months and requires technician visits. Always check the estimated delivery date during the checkout process.
Hardware and Installation
When you subscribe to Norlys, the necessary hardware is usually included as a loan. You do not own the equipment and must return it if you cancel the subscription.
The Router
Norlys provides high-quality routers, typically supporting WiFi 6 standards. For fiber connections, you will receive a router that connects via an ethernet cable to the fiber termination box (ONT) on your wall. For coax connections, the router connects via a coaxial cable to the TV socket. The router is pre-configured. You do not need to input login credentials (PPPoE); it generally connects automatically once plugged in.
WiFi Guarantee (Wifi-garanti)
For larger homes or apartments with thick concrete walls, a single router may not provide full coverage. Norlys offers a “WiFi Guarantee” add-on. This service includes mesh units (boosters) that you place around your home to extend the signal. If you cannot get coverage in every room, they provide additional units or support to resolve the issue. This usually costs an additional monthly fee.
Technician Visits
If you are activating an existing line, a technician visit is rarely needed. You set up the equipment yourself (Gør-det-selv). However, if the line is physically damaged or if you are the first person to activate fiber at a newly built address, a technician must visit. You must be home during the appointment slot. In Denmark, technicians are generally punctual and will text you before arrival.
Housing Associations (Antennelaug)
A unique aspect of the Danish housing market is the “Antennelaug” or “Boligforening” (Housing Association) agreement. If you rent an apartment, your building may have a collective agreement with Norlys.
In these situations, the internet might be included in your rent, or you might be eligible for significantly discounted rates that are not available to the general public. Before ordering online, ask your landlord or check your lease agreement to see if a collective deal exists. If you order a standard product online when a collective deal is available, you will likely overpay. You may need a specific code or a dedicated landing page to access these association prices.
Consumer Rights and Contracts
Danish telecommunications law provides strong consumer protection. These rules apply strictly to all internet providers in Denmark, including Norlys.
Binding Period (Bindingsperiode)
For private consumers, the maximum binding period is 6 months. You cannot be locked into a contract for longer than this. If you see an offer with a “minimum price for 6 months” (Mindstepris i 6 mdr.), this represents the total cost you are committed to paying. After 6 months, you are free to switch providers.
Notice Period (Opsigelse)
The standard notice period for cancellation is 1 month to the end of a month. This means if you cancel on January 15th, your contract will typically end on February 28th. You must pay for the service during this notice period. It is important to plan your cancellation in advance if you are leaving the country.
Right of Withdrawal (Fortrydelsesret)
When purchasing online, you have a 14-day cooling-off period. You can cancel the order within 14 days of receiving the order confirmation without penalty. If the service has already started within these 14 days, you may have to pay for the days used and the installation costs if applicable.
Mobile Internet and 5G
For expats who move frequently or cannot get a fixed line, mobile internet in Denmark is a viable alternative. Norlys has expanded heavily into this sector.
Their 5G internet solution involves a plug-and-play router. This uses the same mobile network as smartphones. The advantage is portability; you can take the router with you to a summer house or a new apartment, provided there is coverage. However, mobile internet usually has a data cap (e.g., 1000 GB per month), whereas fixed fiber and coax lines typically have unlimited data. Gamers should be aware that latency on 5G is higher and less consistent than on fiber.
Customer Service and Language Support
Navigating technical issues in a foreign language can be daunting. Norlys provides customer support primarily in Danish. However, most support agents speak excellent English. If you call their support line, you will navigate a Danish voice menu (Press 1 for Technical Support, Press 2 for Billing, etc.). Once you reach a human, you can simply ask to speak English.
The self-service portal (Mit Norlys) and the monthly bills are in Danish. It is advisable to use a browser with automatic translation features when managing your account online. Emails and SMS notifications regarding outages or technician visits will also be in Danish.
Moving House
If you move to a new address within Denmark, you can often transfer your Norlys subscription. This process is called “Flytning”. You should notify Norlys of your move 3-4 weeks in advance via their self-service portal.
They will perform a coverage check on your new address. If they can supply internet there, they will arrange for the signal to be activated on your move-in date. You typically take your router with you to the new house. If Norlys cannot supply internet at your new address, you have the right to terminate your contract without the standard notice period, provided you show proof of the move.
Bundling Services
Norlys is also a major TV provider. They offer “Norlys Play,” a streaming and cable TV service. Expats often overlook this because traditional flow TV is less relevant today, but bundling can sometimes result in discounts. You can select packages that include international channels or streaming services like HBO Max or Viaplay alongside your internet connection. These bundles are managed through the same login and billed on the same invoice.
Comparing Norlys to Competitors
When shopping for internet in Denmark, it is useful to know where Norlys stands in the market. They are generally considered a premium provider, similar to YouSee. Their prices are rarely the lowest on the market, but they include high-quality routers and have a reputation for reliable customer service.
Budget providers often operate on the same cables as Norlys but offer lower monthly rates by providing basic routers and limited phone support. If you are comfortable configuring your own network and require minimal support, a budget provider might save you money. However, if you prefer a “full service” solution where the provider manages the equipment and guarantees WiFi coverage, Norlys is designed for that segment.
Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues
New arrivals often encounter specific technical hurdles when setting up internet in Danish apartments.
The “Dead” Socket
In many apartments, you will find multiple phone and TV sockets. If you order Coax internet, only one specific socket is active for data. This is usually the primary socket entering the apartment, often found in the living room. If your router does not connect, try a different socket before calling a technician.
Fiber Box Power
If you have fiber, there is a small box permanently mounted on the wall (the ONT). This box requires power. If the previous tenant unplugged it, your router will not work. Ensure the fiber box has power and lights are on before connecting your router.
Registration of Mac Address
If you decide to use your own router instead of the one provided by Norlys, you may need to register your router’s MAC address with their support. On fiber connections, the network often locks to the specific hardware device. If you swap routers, you might lose connectivity for up to an hour until the lease expires, or you may need to call support to release the lock.