Internet is one limitation of bitcoin

[ormatr]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

[Oshosondy]

This is not the problem of bitcoin, but the problem with your government that disabled internet in your country. You can use Starlink instead of relying on local service providers.

Elon Musk's Starlink finally registered in Pakistan to roll out internet services. ISLAMABAD – Elon Musk's famous satellite broadband provider Starlink has reportedly registered to operate and provide internet services in Pakistan.

[ormatr]

This is not the problem of bitcoin, but the problem with your government that disabled internet in your country. You can use Starlink instead of relying on local service providers.

Elon Musk's Starlink finally registered in Pakistan to roll out internet services. ISLAMABAD – Elon Musk's famous satellite broadband provider Starlink has reportedly registered to operate and provide internet services in Pakistan.

This service is still not started in Pakistan they just got registered.
The point is in case of Internet blackout we have no access to bitcoin.

[Patrol69]

My question to you is only government internet services are off in your country or all internet services are off? Shutting down the entire internet system will cut off a country from the modern world. 
At present, no work can be done without internet. I hope that the entire internet service has not been stopped in your country, only the internet services operated by the government have been stopped. You can use other Internet services if the government-run Internet services are stopped.

[o_e_l_e_o]

There are alternative options, although they will take a bit of time and effort in order to set up and use.

The easiest way to stay synced with the network without an internet connection is via Blockstream Satellite. It is possible to repurpose any old satellite dish in order to do this.

In order to broadcast a transaction, you need to get it to someone with an internet connection. This might be someone who has bypassed government restrictions, or maybe someone who lives near a border and can use the connection of another country, or someone outside your country altogether. You can get it to them via a mesh network such as goTenna, via SMS, via radio, or any other way you like.

[DaveF]

From the news reports at the moment it's all cellular data being off in the country and some home / fixed internet.
Others are saying it's a total blackout others are saying it's not that bad.

Eliminating everything else from the picture, it's not like this was not a known thing. You will always need some form of internet to get a tx in or out.
There are ways / sites that you can broadcast a transaction that you created without needing a node. You just really need an understanding of what you are doing. It's not a simple click -> send. But, if you do not have internet, you don't have banking either so it all comes back to that.

-Dave

[ormatr]

There are alternative options, although they will take a bit of time and effort in order to set up and use.

The easiest way to stay synced with the network without an internet connection is via Blockstream Satellite. It is possible to repurpose any old satellite dish in order to do this.

In order to broadcast a transaction, you need to get it to someone with an internet connection. This might be someone who has bypassed government restrictions, or maybe someone who lives near a border and can use the connection of another country, or someone outside your country altogether. You can get it to them via a mesh network such as goTenna, via SMS, via radio, or any other way you like.

Thanks for sharing this useful info.
Situation is getting better now and hopefully today or by tomorrow internet facility will be restored.
But Blockstream Satellite is useful thing that can help you in case of situation which Bitcoiners are facing in Pakistan.  
A very useful info in the homepage of Blockstream Satellite

"Internet Not Required
Blockstream Satellite broadcasts the Bitcoin blockchain to the entire planet via satellite, reducing Bitcoin’s dependency on internet access. Everyone in the world now has an opportunity to use Bitcoin."

So there is some solution to access Bitcoin without internet.

[SamReomo]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If the cellular data is disabled then that might be suspended intentionally. However, in such cases it is always preferable to use secondary connection in the form of Broadband, or Fibre optics as they most likely won't be affected in such situations. It's always a better choice to have access to internet via multiple routes just relying on cellular data is not a reliable thing.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

The government won't shut down the whole internet as that will take the country backward, however if anything like that happens then only those people will be able to use the internet who will have their own private connections via satellite. One such service is Starlink as they offer satellite services across globe.

Wow man! The information is really amazing! But it's very technical for someone to get access to such internet connection. I also think that such connections might be illegal and could cause problems for the user. If a government is completely blocking internet and still the user is trying to access it with the help of such connections might be the reason of legal action against the user.

[LoyceV]

A very useful info in the homepage of Blockstream Satellite

"Internet Not Required
Blockstream Satellite broadcasts the Bitcoin blockchain to the entire planet via satellite, reducing Bitcoin’s dependency on internet access. Everyone in the world now has an opportunity to use Bitcoin."

That's like saying private jets reduce the world's dependence on bicycles.

[FatFork]

The point is in case of Internet blackout we have no access to bitcoin.

Well, if there's a total internet blackout, I think you'll have bigger things to worry about than not being able to access your Bitcoin.

Basically, every form of internet communication will be disabled, including email, web, online banking, social media, and even communication apps like WhatsApp and many other services. In such a scenario, people would likely turn to alternative means of communication and transactions, such as using cash (in many countries, card payments on POS systems and ATMs may also be affected). Plus, a widespread internet blackout can have far-reaching consequences beyond personal finances and communication. It can potentially disrupt essential services such as emergency response systems, transportation, and logistics, making it difficult for people to access medical care, food, and other essentials. We rely so much on the internet for everything these days, so it's a pretty scary scenario to think about in the modern world.

[o_e_l_e_o]

If a government is completely blocking internet and still the user is trying to access it with the help of such connections might be the reason of legal action against the user.

If a government is completely blocking the internet in order to suppress and control its population, then I would haven no issues attempting to bypass those restrictions and fight for my freedom, including the financial freedom that bitcoin brings.

In such a scenario, people would likely turn to alternative means of communication and transactions, such as using cash (in many countries, card payments on POS systems and ATMs may also be affected). Plus, a widespread internet blackout can have far-reaching consequences beyond personal finances and communication. It can potentially disrupt essential services such as emergency response systems, transportation, and logistics, making it difficult for people to access medical care, food, and other essentials.

Any internet blackout would likely simply prevent access to the outside world, like China or North Korea already do to various degrees. Systems like national banking or emergency response could easily continue to run.

[tranthidung]

Use alternatives for off-grid transactions

• [Total privacy Bitcoin]: off grid Transactions LoRaWan/goTenna
• https://gotennamesh.com/products/mesh
• LoraWan: https://github.com/valerio-vaccaro/LoraCaster

[Obito]

To some level I would agree that Internet is a limitation for bitcoin but there are physical tokens that can store bitcoin in them that you can buy, you can use that to trade for fiat if you need it but in terms of trading, you might have a problem. Remember OP, mankind has survived this long because we always find a way.

[Lorence.xD]

Isn't something that your freedom to use internet? For sure the government announced something regarding to the down of internet services, but if it was permanent and not temporary then I definitely not let it slide since there's a lot of people in a country that are relying on the internet like home-based jobs, communication via internet and also the crypto industry. I couldn't even imagine a world that there's no internet since my money sources are from online. If that's the case you could try the recommendation above mentioned about satellite but it's my first time hearing about it.

[NeuroticFish]

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

Internet is the foundation for a lot of services and it's well known that bitcoin doesn't work without internet, although certain attempts/workaround exist, from radio waves and SMS to use of "physical bitcoin" things (like OpenDime, Satodime and others) or what what already said (Starlink & others)

However, it's not something new that certain countries can and do prevent people from using bitcoin whether they do it intentionally (China) or maybe not necessarily intentionally (your case, I don't know the legal status there) and not necessarily unexpected. That doesn't make Bitcoin worse overall. It does make your government though 

But people tend to find their ways around. At least fixed internet may be necessary for modern banking system (and I mean here the actual banks). And if the government start filtering this and that, Tor, VPN are still ways to go around. They usually cannot stop all the possible ways.

[kryptqnick]

I wouldn't have known about the Pakistan situation without this thread, so thank you for sharing. Restricting Internet usage like this is such a serious measure, and not one commonly used to deal with protests (if that's the cause). I mean, I'd understand if there was a major disruption that naturally led to serious Internet connection issues (we had such things in Ukraine because of the war and blackouts related to the war), but that's something imposed, done on purpose...
I suppose under such conditions, Bitcoin being a digital currency is an issue (although there are workarounds, as o_e_l_e_o mentioned). But aren't there also bigger issues that come from such harsh Internet restrictions that make Bitcoin only a minor thing in comparison?

[lovesmayfamilis]

Isn't something that your freedom to use internet? For sure the government announced something regarding to the down of internet services, but if it was permanent and not temporary then I definitely not let it slide since there's a lot of people in a country that are relying on the internet like home-based jobs, communication via internet and also the crypto industry. I couldn't even imagine a world that there's no internet since my money sources are from online. If that's the case you could try the recommendation above mentioned about satellite but it's my first time hearing about it.

I hope that the problem with the Internet is temporary. Read the news: in Pakistan, the government shut down the internet indefinitely due to popular unrest. https://technoblender.com/pakistan-internet-restrictions-could-be-indefinite/
Innocent people are forced to accept government decisions. I don't think the lack of internet will last long.

[Ucy]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it.  

Part of the solution to this is to have bitcoins existing in physical form or in form of cash. And you could have some sort authorized organization, more like Central Bank, printing out different denominations of bitcoins on papers or any reliable material for buying things without the internet.
The paper or material will have Bitcoin private keys sealed on it. Once the seal is scratched off the paper will nolonger be in circulation.
To check for counterfeits or fakes just sms some code from the papers to the printing organization.

The fluctuations of Bitcoin price shouldn't affect this too much. If you buy 0.0003 paper sats to buy some food stuff for example and the price of Bitcoin goes up, you will be be given change in Bitcoin or fiat by the food stuff seller.

People are free to try this in their countries.  

[Rupok]

Not everything has to be involve to Bitcoin.  I think it's a government issue that has nothing to do with Bitcoin. Although the internet is required to manage bitcoins.The country you live in may have government-run internet services down.But you can use other internet services.  A country's government will never shut down all the internet in their country, because today it is impossible to do anything without the internet.  Maybe there is some error in the government internet due to which the internet service is down now.I don't think it's permanently closed, maybe temporarily.Hope the government will solve this problem soon.

[vv181]

The point is in case of Internet blackout we have no access to bitcoin.

Well, if there's a total internet blackout, I think you'll have bigger things to worry about than not being able to access your Bitcoin.

Internet access is the basic access of human rights. Without it, there will be no 'information'. I do agree there is a bigger thing to worry about and be concerned about rather than things like Bitcoin. I did not mean to discredit Bitcoin, but if basic things like information access are limited and prevented, it has more urgency to be addressed and in regard to shifting the blame to bitcoin, it is rather not on point.

Others have given solutions about 'off-grid' solution to send bitcoin transactions, but in essence, it is not a bitcoin limitation since it is just how it works.

[KiaKia]

This is not the problem of bitcoin, but the problem with your government that disabled internet in your country. You can use Starlink instead of relying on local service providers.

Elon Musk's Starlink finally registered in Pakistan to roll out internet services. ISLAMABAD – Elon Musk's famous satellite broadband provider Starlink has reportedly registered to operate and provide internet services in Pakistan.

Imagine you planning to accumulate some Bitcoin and the government of your country decide to shut down the internet how will an average person buy starlink? You called Starlink as if it's something you can buy with 100$, that thing is hell of a headache and I will advice anyone reading this right now to look into the disadvantages of Starlink, shocking? The disadvantages are why I won't be using StarLink any time soon.

OP the problem is your government, not Bitcoin, it's true that you can't send Bitcoin out to another address if you have no internet connection but Bitcoin was build to work with the internet, try been appreciative because not all technologies are as good as Bitcoin and Blockchain.

Maybe we will see some crypto blockchain that works offline for sending and receiving in the future, but for now, it's not available, mind you, if you see any it's probably a scam, don't go around looking for a crypto project that works without internet connection.

[avikz]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

Just to let you know that bitcoin can be broadcasted through radio frequency as well. There are multiple experiments done on that you can find them in Google. Some YouTube videos are available as well. I will not share a specific link because I dont want to promote a specific experiment. But you can do your own research.

So internet is definitely a limitation but there are other ways to send bitcoin transactions. They are more expensive but seems to be working.

[zanezane]

I think it is not necessarily a limitation of the cryptocurrency itself. Bitcoin relies on internet connectivity to allow users to send and receive transactions, as well as to verify the authenticity of those transactions through a blockchain. However, there are several ways in which Bitcoin can still be used even in the absence of a reliable internet connection. For example, it is possible to use a satellite based connction to broadcast transactions to the Bitcoin network, or to use mesh networking technology to connect to other Bitcoin nodes without relying on traditional internet infastracture.

While the internet is an important aspect of using Bitcoin, it is not necessarily a limitation of the cryptocurrency itself, and there are ways in which Bitocoin can still be used even in the absence of reliable internet connectivity.

[m2017]

This is not the problem of bitcoin, but the problem with your government that disabled internet in your country. You can use Starlink instead of relying on local service providers.

Elon Musk's Starlink finally registered in Pakistan to roll out internet services. ISLAMABAD – Elon Musk's famous satellite broadband provider Starlink has reportedly registered to operate and provide internet services in Pakistan.

You are greatly mistaken if you think that a government shutting down the Internet will allow its users to use Starlink. Such governments will immediately outlaw Starlink, and the citizens who use it will be held accountable under the law, which will be quickly changed or passed if necessary.

Starlink can register to provide its services even in Antarctica. The final decision will always be made by the local government.

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

That is why, alternative directions for using bitcoin should be developed. It will also be useful for those areas where the use of the Internet is difficult or non-existent.

[panganib999]

Lack of internet connection is definitely a problem that poses itself against the Massive adoption of bitcoin. But in my opinion, and I say this with pure constructive feedback in my mind, this isn’t supposed to be bitcoin’s fucking problem. The problem’s on your country’s end, with all these strict laws and ordinances that disallows you from even being able to use bitcoin or the internet for that matter.

Plus besides, just like what other people have said prior to this comment, there are multitudes of ways people can use bitcoin without the use of internet. Although those primarily only involve the storage of bitcoin and not the transaction part of the equation but you get my point. If there’s a will there’s a way, and it’s not crypto’s limitation to be over-reliant to the internet but it’s feature. It offers connectivityx internet is the best way it could offer the connectivity it advertises, that checks out.

[FatFork]

If a government is completely blocking internet and still the user is trying to access it with the help of such connections might be the reason of legal action against the user.

If a government is completely blocking the internet in order to suppress and control its population, then I would haven no issues attempting to bypass those restrictions and fight for my freedom, including the financial freedom that bitcoin brings.

<cut>

Any internet blackout would likely simply prevent access to the outside world, like China or North Korea already do to various degrees. Systems like national banking or emergency response could easily continue to run.

If you're referring to something like China's Great Firewall, then it's more like censorship rather than a complete blackout. In such a case, I agree with you that I would also use all available methods to fight it, and I believe many people in those countries do the same. OK, I'm not so sure about North Korea since I don't know the situation there or how people feel about it. 

[aylabadia05]

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

It's too bad if the government turns off all internet services and I think it will impact all service access.
However, a country needs other countries as part of communication and interaction in building cooperation.
If they turn off the internet only for the purpose of stopping access to Bitcoin, what about other effects that will be worse for all sectors such as health which is far more important.

The health laboratory will not work.
The Intensive Care Unit (ICU), which is a place or room to serve patients with severe illness, cannot function and almost all health sectors cannot provide services.

[Coose365]

I think about this sometimes. im under the impression that the blockchain doesn't require that much bandwidth. so something like a mesh network could be useful?

[teosanru]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

This is absolutely true. I think it's convenient to say Anarchy is the biggest enemy of bitcoin, i faced a pretty similar issue in India as well. But i think this is there with almost every modern invention. Like if there is no electricity even note printing isn't possible so in case of complete anarchy that would be affected as well. It's not a limitation of bitcoin but yes it's a basic requirement for using bitcoin.

[Smartvirus]

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

Obviously, it's a challenge but, not a pressing one. This is because, the Internet virtually moves almost every sector and having networks regulated would affect the economy of a nation more than bitcoin could ever do. Having these networks available to homes on a wire network is possible and one might still get to use that but, its going to hinder the flow of business and bring humanity back to a salvage times when life was much more simple and energetic.
Besides, a damage on the hardwares would affect a whole region, issues that wouldn't be expressed in having the network broadcast in  the air.

Another one is the fact that, it needs a device to operate and its a can't afford to some individuals. This is why, bitcoin remains a complementary currency to our everyday fiat. It ain't here to replace but, complete.

[Sandra_hakeem]

This is not the problem of bitcoin, but the problem with your government that disabled internet in your country. You can use Starlink instead of relying on local service providers.

Elon Musk's Starlink finally registered in Pakistan to roll out internet services. ISLAMABAD – Elon Musk's famous satellite broadband provider Starlink has reportedly registered to operate and provide internet services in Pakistan.

No! That's wrong..
IMHO, Not all the country's government are in support of Bitcoin.. I don't know about yours and I won't wanna capitalise on that fact but I'm sure improvements should be made to evade any country's usual restrictions.
...but how would you say Bitcoin transactions can be made to work without routers/internet connections?? Can that ever be possible? Maybe that's where Elon's satellites would do a great job.

I'm just surprised that alot of countries are still trying every possible best to figure out a way to thwart BITCOIN's growing efforts... Some even go as much as imposing unnecessary task and levies, IS THAT THE CASE HERE OR YOU'VE GOT A FAULTY GR ROUTERS WITHOUT ANY ILL INTENTIONS FROM THE GOVTS?? .. just asking.

Sandra 🧑‍🦰

[umbara ardian]

Practically speaking, in situations where both mobile data and fixed/home internet are disrupted or severely limited, the ability to use Bitcoin or any online financial service is severely affected. So it becomes difficult to initiate and broadcast transactions, access online wallets, or interact with the Bitcoin network. However, there are methods to broadcast transactions without relying on individual nodes, such as using specific websites or services, but these options often require a degree of understanding and caution. certain techniques, as they involve sharing sensitive transaction details with third parties.

[buwaytress]

If you don't have internet, you can't use this forum (Wait, how did OP..!), you can't use PayPal, nor do your banking online anyway... or any form of digital money.

As posted above, there are workarounds to find access to Bitcoin, but those wouldn't work for PayPal or other, so really, this is a limitation of digital technology, not Bitcoin.

Cash is king for Pakistan, anyway. It was 15 years ago, pretty sure outside urban PK, still the case.

[tjtonmoy]

I think it's a problem in your country. Which could be fixed. But if this is to happen worldwide, then that's a concern. Power or internet outage all over the world will make anything related to the internet totally useless. And that includes Bitcoin too. But this kind of scenario is quite impossible to happen in any time. People will always find a way to use it or make alternative options for it.
I saw a post last year, where you can send BTC using text message from remote area where internet is not available/usable for bitcoin transactions. So yeah. It is a problem, but it is fixable. People will always find a way.

[loopes]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it.  

shutting down all internet services will be a serious problem to the bitcoin because it will affect not only all the bitcoin users but also all internet users in certain areas. There is no way to access bitcoin network if we do not have internet connection. People in the country will not have any access to the internet then some chaos will occurs, especially for use of bitcoin. bitcoin users can not make a transaction.

[MIner1448]

Yes, you are right, one of the limitations of using Bitcoin is the need to access the internet. Without internet access, it is impossible to use Bitcoin or any other cryptocurrency. However, it should be noted that this also applies to many other online services and systems such as email, online banking, social networks and others.
In the event that the Internet service is disabled in your country, unfortunately, the use of Bitcoin or any other cryptocurrency will not be possible. However, if internet access is restored, you will be able to continue using Bitcoin.

[serjent05]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

Don't worry for nothing.  The government will not shutdown the internet.  If they do, it is good as killing their own economy.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

Bitcoin can be presented in physical form by printing private keys holding the coins. It can function as either coins or paper money and it can also be handed physically just like money.  The issue is that anyone who knows the private key can retrieve it rendering the physical hands-out to have 0 value.  So Bitcoin transfer is not limited to the internet only it can be handed out physically assuming that the people have no intention of sweeping the coins on that physical coin/paper.

[Yatsan]

This is not the problem of bitcoin, but the problem with your government that disabled internet in your country. You can use Starlink instead of relying on local service providers.

Elon Musk's Starlink finally registered in Pakistan to roll out internet services. ISLAMABAD – Elon Musk's famous satellite broadband provider Starlink has reportedly registered to operate and provide internet services in Pakistan.

But it still has something to do with accessibility to transact in this technology which I think, limiting its usage, so technically OP is correct. Another limitation is government adoption of this industry as a mode of payment on different transactions which is still a problem up until this point. Given these circumstances, should we be hopeless? If we would be optimistic, things still has aid in the future. There are still countries who allows cryptocurrency usage, and that is something already to consider for a bright future in this industry.

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

i do not sure that shut down all internet service will be a solution because it will affect all the internet user in certain area. People in the country will not have any access to the internet then some chaos will occur.

Not chaos but problem. However, it won't be a solution indeed given how dependent technology at the present is, on internet connection. We could see this on the advancement of  appliances perhaps wherein most of the new release have the "smart" function which requires internet connectivity, so what more of other technologies existing.

[gunhell16]

This is not the problem of bitcoin, but the problem with your government that disabled internet in your country. You can use Starlink instead of relying on local service providers.

Elon Musk's Starlink finally registered in Pakistan to roll out internet services. ISLAMABAD – Elon Musk's famous satellite broadband provider Starlink has reportedly registered to operate and provide internet services in Pakistan.

Agreed, actually, the internet is not the problem when the government of every country takes away the internet, any cryptocurrency or bitcoin is useless. But it is impossible to happen in this era.

The Starlink is good because here in our country we have it, so only a few of us have it here. But my acquaintance who bought it said that even if you bought it, it has a strong network and the Mbps is also high even in the mountains, as long as there is a satellite. just for now.

[tabas]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

While that's true that it's one of the challenges of one bitcoin investor should face and that's having no internet connection. Although it is an isolated problem for some countries where connectivity is being cut and controlled by the government, given the situation that you're allowed to look for some alternatives then there's one that's being suggested and that's through Starlink. I'm just not sure if Starlink's service is supported and it has to go through Pakistan's customs and it will be on them if they'll allow it to enter and receive the shipment from SL. And that's the solution in times like this that you've really said a challenge that bitcoin will face maybe somehow in the future from other nations but not today.
A satellite connection is and it's just a matter of time until most of the countries will have their own satellite services like they'll be merchanting SL's service but with a margin through them, if they're strict as Pakistan.

[michellee]

Your government is the limit in using bitcoin because the government will carry out all regulations regarding anything. If the government doesn't approve, they will easily do it, including shutting down the internet in your country.

If other countries don't shut down their internet, bitcoin will still run. And if in one country many businesses must be connected to the internet, there will surely be massive demonstrations if the government is not wise in managing all the regulations.

But in this technological era, the government will not simply turn off the internet because the internet has become necessary for many people and businesses. If the government didn't pay attention to this, they would be met with rejection from many people.

[landheer]

I don't know much about this issue and I'm only speaking according to what I know.

In my opinion, the absence of the internet will disrupt transactions or invest in BTC, because without the internet, it will be difficult for us to buy and sell BTC.
I think in this case we have to make a wise decision and in this case you are the one doing it so I think you have to do your own research or like other friends suggest it for you, so you can make transactions using BTC etc.
honestly without the internet we will not be able to transact using btc.

[irhact]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.
If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

It's so sad to see that the governments are still preventing their citizens from use of essential things like the internet, but the internet can't be shutdown globally since the whole world depends on the internet for our day to day activities. If the internet get blocked then we'll be returning to the stone age since this generation can't cope without the internet.

Bitcoin can be sent through radio waves as I read an article on that, maybe people in your country can try using that when it gets available but for the main time just stay calm while things return to normal because I believe it'll. You can also look for alternative Internet providers.

[Litzki1990]

Mainly due to political unrest, internet services are currently down in Pakistan. The PTA has decided to shut down internet services to avoid unrest in the country over the issue of Imran Khan's arrest. A news where it is said that the country is losing about 83 crore rupees every day due to one day internet service shutdown. Pakistan government may consider these things. Maybe this temporary problem in your country will go away very soon.

[wxa7115]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

It is true that bitcoin needs the internet in order to be used at all, but is it really such a great limitation? Maybe if this was the early nineties I would agree, but the internet is only getting faster, more readily available and it is becoming one of the keys for the success of any modern society.

And even if governments can shutdown the internet to stop bitcoin, would they dare? This will affect the economy of their countries in a major way, and at the end it would not solve anything, because as soon as they activated the internet again then bitcoin will work again as if nothing happened.

[fuguebtc]

-.-

Bitcoin can be sent through radio waves as I read an article on that, maybe people in your country can try using that when it gets available but for the main time just stay calm while things return to normal because I believe it'll. You can also look for alternative Internet providers.

I have never heard of this, how could it work? Bitcoin was created based on the internet, so I don't believe we can use bitcoin without the internet, that sounds very absurd. As far as I know, what is going on in Pakistan is political, so all internet providers are subject to government orders, so you have no way of finding an alternative provider, nobody wants the government to punish them.

Everything will be back to normal soon because they can't cut the internet for a long time, which will cause a lot of problems in this modern society. But this shows that, if the government wants to, they still have many ways to limit and prevent bitcoin.

[acroman08]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

but why? why would they suspend cellular internet service?

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I don't think they will do it, that is if they know how important the Internet is for the economy. if they did shut down the Internet service in your country, they will just cripple your country's economy.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it.  

there are ways that you can send BTC without the internet but from what I have read, it is impractical, so I still agree that it is one of the limitations of Bitcoin.

-.-

Bitcoin can be sent through radio waves as I read an article on that, maybe people in your country can try using that when it gets available but for the main time just stay calm while things return to normal because I believe it'll. You can also look for alternative Internet providers.

I have never heard of this, how could it work? Bitcoin was created based on the internet, so I don't believe we can use bitcoin without the internet, that sounds very absurd.

there are articles made about it, you can search on it google if you want to get more info, in fact, radio waves aren't the only way to do it.

[fat buddah]

As people said, that's not the Bitcoin problem. Without the internet, you are unable to do a lot of things, and Bitcoin is just one of them. There are a lot of ways to do something about it, but I wasn't in your position so I can't give you any advice. I just hope everything will be better for you someday.

[adzino]

Yeah, that's an issue and a limitation to be honest. Nothing much we can do here until someone comes up with a new solution. Others are recommending using Starlink or other satellite equipment. But as far as I know, the government can also put a ban on own such devices if they want. Getting caught using those devices can end up putting you on the jail. The same with satellite phones. There are countries out there were using such phones are prohibited. They can put an overall ban in producing or importing those equipment...

[bangjoe]

Yeah, that's an issue and a limitation to be honest. Nothing much we can do here until someone comes up with a new solution. Others are recommending using Starlink or other satellite equipment. But as far as I know, the government can also put a ban on own such devices if they want. Getting caught using those devices can end up putting you on the jail. The same with satellite phones. There are countries out there were using such phones are prohibited. They can put an overall ban in producing or importing those equipment...

The internet for me is the most attached limit on Bitcoin transactions or other internet -based, Elon Starlink also has provisions such as making payments in its services, to be honest I myself do not understand about roaming access like this that is outside the government in my country.
And after I read the government can take part in overseeing this service so that they are most likely to prohibit it and or kill it unilaterally. And yes the government can scan the network and coordinates of its use so that it will be very difficult to get security if we violate.

[Road21Bitcoin]

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

There are many great responses here detailing alternative routes you can take to still use and access Bitcoin, that is true. But, there are also comments here that are very cavalier in their responses as if loss of internet services across the country is not much of a problem and can be solved easily. As if it can be easily solved by protesting a strict regime, or bypassing access when there is political and military unrest in your country. Internet, if not easily accessible, will always be a limitation if it comes to availing and using cryptocurrency.

Stay safe, brother.

[Mate2237]

There are alternative options, although they will take a bit of time and effort in order to set up and use.

That was is a very good idea but getting the Satellite Dish and subscribe to the server before using it will be costly. Not everyone can afford it. In 2011 I was using one and only the subscription was $200 and now that things are costly, it will be even more than that.

The easiest way to stay synced with the network without an internet connection is via Blockstream Satellite. It is possible to repurpose any old satellite dish in order to do this.

The alternative way of using satellite is good but not everyone can get it as I said. Using satellite dish for internet is for the average family or if any other lower people decide to use it for business purpose the it is okay. Satellite Dish is very good for internet business.

In order to broadcast a transaction, you need to get it to someone with an internet connection. This might be someone who has bypassed government restrictions, or maybe someone who lives near a border and can use the connection of another country, or someone outside your country altogether. You can get it to them via a mesh network such as goTenna, via SMS, via radio, or any other way you like.

That is another good idea but you have to pay the person for service rendering. You can discuss with the person to pay daily, weekly or monthly. So that the person can add it up to other funds to subscribe the internet.

[TimeTeller]

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it.  

There are many great responses here detailing alternative routes you can take to still use and access Bitcoin, that is true. But, there are also comments here that are very cavalier in their responses as if loss of internet services across the country is not much of a problem and can be solved easily. As if it can be easily solved by protesting a strict regime, or bypassing access when there is political and military unrest in your country. Internet, if not easily accessible, will always be a limitation if it comes to availing and using cryptocurrency.

Stay safe, brother.

There may be alternative routes as suggested above, but if a person doesn't have much, he won't afford such route.
I can say, internet will indeed hinder the use of crypto especially for a country which has limitations on this aspect.
But as mentioned in early post, Starlink is covering their services in Pakistan already, but need to check out their rates.
Because in my country, the rates from Starlink is not very affordable, so I will stick to my current net provider.

[Wakate]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it.  

You are very correct because this is one of the limitations many people that are leaving in the rural area are facing right now and if you tell them about Bitcoin and how it works, they could cry to you that they don't have a constant access to the internet and it a major problem especially when connectivity is partially available to them. The people in this kind of environment are mostly left to leave there lives without the need of the internet.

If there there ways Bitcoin can be process even with the access to internet, this would have facilitate the huge adoption of Bitcoin but I don't think Bitcoin can ever be transact without the use of the internet.

[BitDane]

I don't know much about this issue and I'm only speaking according to what I know.

In my opinion, the absence of the internet will disrupt transactions or invest in BTC, because without the internet, it will be difficult for us to buy and sell BTC.
I think in this case we have to make a wise decision and in this case you are the one doing it so I think you have to do your own research or like other friends suggest it for you, so you can make transactions using BTC etc.
honestly without the internet we will not be able to transact using btc.

All digital transaction is limited by having no internet and Bitcoin is not different from them.  Since Bitcoin thrives in an online environment, it cannot perform its function when deprived of the internet.  Although there are some ways of transferring Bitcoin outside its standard means, it is more troublesome and possess risk in the process.  The good thing is this limitation is shared by many other digital  system like e-banking, CBDC  and other online commerce, it is more likely that this limitation can't be exploited by the anti-Bitcoin group.

[serveria.com]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

I've heard in some African countries they started offering an SMS service for Bitcoin transactions which allows users to send/receive Bitcoin without internet access (and even without a smartphone). Not sure how it works though and if they're going to start offering it in other developing countries.

[Accardo]

Only that which is the limitation of the internet can be the limitation of bitcoin; Electricity. If there is electricity, many possible means of sharing information would be made available regardless of the Government rules. Internet is an Electricity lifestyle while bitcoin is an Internet Lifestyles it draws a larger scale of difference, but what mattered to people is that their gadgets turn on or are well charged. I'm glad to have seen the possible method of connecting our bitcoin to a satellite. It's an exceptional Idea and it has proven that bitcoin will always stay aloof of its possible problems.

[Texac]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

It is true that bitcoin needs the internet in order to be used at all, but is it really such a great limitation? Maybe if this was the early nineties I would agree, but the internet is only getting faster, more readily available and it is becoming one of the keys for the success of any modern society.

And even if governments can shutdown the internet to stop bitcoin, would they dare? This will affect the economy of their countries in a major way, and at the end it would not solve anything, because as soon as they activated the internet again then bitcoin will work again as if nothing happened.

Nowadays, cutting off the internet for a long time is impossible when every device depends on it.  internet and electricity are two things like food and water to a person. Without either, a healthy person will become weak and lead to death if this condition persists. as far as I know, what's going on in Pakistan, the government is disrupting the internet for political purposes, not for bitcoin.  So this situation will be resolved soon.

[Josefjix]

As people said, that's not the Bitcoin problem. Without the internet, you are unable to do a lot of things, and Bitcoin is just one of them. There are a lot of ways to do something about it, but I wasn't in your position so I can't give you any advice. I just hope everything will be better for you someday.

The Pakistani government is imposing a defiant display of power, barring and limiting their residents' rights; it's so bad to shut off citizens' internet access for unexplained reasons. The internet is one of the most basic human necessities, and imposing strictly prohibited regulations would only make the issue worse. Citizens will be unable to manage their usage of the current world, everything they work so hard to put in place will fade, as everything concerning the digital age improving day by day. The point is to wish for brighter days ahead, for good things do come to those who wait.

[ancafe]

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

This kind of situation has more things to consider, the banking system, telephone and cash will be much more problematic when the internet network is down. Is your country currently experiencing a cash currency crisis? If the banking system is fine and still operating as usual, this is another problem your country has deliberately created.

For bitcoin problems, there may have been a lot of suggestions and input given by people in the comments so that you can still use and access bitcoin. Internet outages are a much bigger problem where all network communications will be completely shut down, usually to limit any communication to other countries and this has happened in China.

[rat03gopoh]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

It was only 3 days, not a problem for basically alternative entity use. The intensity of using bitcoin for micro-transactions is still very low especially in developing countries. That doesn't mean you can't pay for something with your local currency at the same time.

Speaking of the internet, the longer an infrastructure is used in all sectors of the country, the higher the level of need, including the internet that must exist to keep up with the era of high accessibility. So I don't believe even the government itself can survive without the internet

[Kakmakr]

Well, if they shut off the Internet ..then other financial industries are also "down" ..... so it is not just Bitcoin then. The whole economy are run on the Internet, so it is not something that are only targeted at Bitcoin. 

There was some thread on this forum, where people discussion Bitcoin transactions over radio waves and also "offline" solutions that might work as a temporary solution, if the Internet is down. 

[Crypto Library]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it.  

Sorry to hear your current condition I saw in the news that the condition of Pakistan is now unstable due to political reasons, hope you can reverse this situation very soon.
My problem is somewhat similar to yours, in my own country here  loadshedding is happening regularly for about 10 to 12 hours a day due to power shortage. And because of this, it has been seen many times that when I enter an investment or it has happened that during day trading I could not sell according to the strategy because of only for the loadshedding. As a result, not only me but many freelancers in our country are in dire straits. In fact, I myself think that electricity and internet is a limitation of Bitcoin. I myself want to adopt an alternative electricity supply which is solar panels, it might be good for common people who can afford electricity but I really doubt if there is ever a situation where the internet fails.  What will be the matter when given?  In other words, if everything in the world is not under the reach of the Internet, it is coming to a limit.

[Hispo]

I would say it is rather a failure of your Republic rather than a weakness of Bitcoin, because two main reasons, in my opinion.

First, Satoshi knew that internet would only continue to grow and become a bigger part of the society, to the point that would be vital to most of the civilized countries and nations. In that sense, the net access to the network can only grow.

Secondly, it is possible to transfer Bitcoin off chain, using private keys or signed transactions as a vehicle to transmit the value. I am aware that this is an option which is not preferred and it should be used only in extraordinary cases, but it is another way.

Anyways, I hope your internet situation gets permanently solved soon.

Take care.

[cydrix]

It is logical. In spite of the fact that older people may still be capable and ready to work, ageism in the workplace is a serious problem that can lead to forced retirement. It's crucial to balance experience and productivity when weighing the advantages and disadvantages of keeping older workers on staff. While experience can be extremely helpful, it's also critical to understand how physical and cognitive aging might impact work effectiveness. To accommodate older workers and maximize their contributions while minimizing the detrimental effects on their health and well-being, employers should take into account alternative arrangements like part-time work, flexible hours, or job sharing.

[Synchronice]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

If government shuts down internet service in your country, then that can probably become a reason of asylum in some countries, I don't know but if it's enough for asylum because sometimes some European countries really accept people for no logical reason, you may escape.
Governments can ban any kind of signal, so, Starlink or even bitcoin-exclusive signal can be blocked and there is no hope in it. You can always do offline transactions but they need to be broadcasted and then confirmed to actually finalize the transaction.

Your only hope is that people will push government to keep internet services active and working because completely shutting it down means that your government wants to totally enslave people, nothing worth more than freedom.

[ormatr]

Internet services now resumed in the country but social media services are still down in the country. But there is a fix to that we are using vpn to sccess Social media.

[mendace]

OP I'm sorry to hear these words but in addition to the ways they have already pointed out to you and certainly starlink is the best solution I can also advise you if there is a provider or service in your country that provides this there is also an internet connection with a simple satellite dish just like starlink but cheaper.  I don't know if it exists but in Italy it was advertised around the 2000s

[blockman]

I already saw how people are sending it from phone to phone wihtout internet

How? Through Bluetooth, GPS, or a satellite connection? I wonder how it happens because the last time that I read something related to this is about the usage of radio waves if there's no internet connection.

Internet services now resumed in the country but social media services are still down in the country. But there is a fix to that we are using vpn to sccess Social media.

As long as you've got access now to the web and you're able to visit social media websites and other types of websites then you can now have access to transact Bitcoin. If using a VPN is going to make you accessible for doing other things and will make you productive, that's not a secret anymore as even in the corporate world, there have been tasks that do requires the usage of VPN.

[The Cryptovator]

Imagine a world without internet connectivity. In such a scenario, our ability to engage in online forums or any form of communication would come to a halt. Furthermore, even the fiat ecosystem, which relies heavily on digital transactions, would collapse without the internet. This reality applies equally to Bitcoin, as it too requires an internet connection to broadcast transactions. After all, Bitcoin is a digital currency that operates in a digital realm.

[Fiatless]

Internet services now resumed in the country but social media services are still down in the country. But there is a fix to that we are using vpn to sccess Social media.

The situation in your country has shown that for now, the government has absolute control over the internet in some countries. This fact portrays that they can control the use of bitcoin within these nations since bitcoin relies on the Internet. This situation will force Bitcoiners to flee the country or seek other means of doing bitcoin transactions.

I am not tech-savvy but I think this is the best time to start researching and seeking other means of connecting to the bitcoin without the internet or bypassing government connections. The Internet is too important to be placed in the hands of self-seeking politicians because they will always seek centralization. And if they observe that they cannot stop Bitcoin, they might result to cutting off the internet.

[josephsonand]

I am not tech-savvy but I think this is the best time to start researching and seeking other means of connecting to the bitcoin without the internet or bypassing government connections. The Internet is too important to be placed in the hands of self-seeking politicians because they will always seek centralization. And if they observe that they cannot stop Bitcoin, they might result to cutting off the internet.

Time to start stocking up on ham radios and learning Morse code, just in case.

[Call_Me_Guru]

As of today, bitcoin transaction can not go through without internet. Not only the internet and without power you can't use internet when there is no power and provision for it with your device and that of the ISP you are using, no transaction can go through. This as it looks like a challenge is not a challenge, bitcoin is internet based network and no transaction can be honored without it, we should respect that.

This is how most systems work these days, banks are not left out of this. Once there internet is down, almost everything is down with it.

[FatFork]

Time to start stocking up on ham radios and learning Morse code, just in case.

Haha, you got that right! Speaking of which, brushing up on those smoke signals sounds like a great idea too. Gotta be prepared for any situation, right? You never know when a solar flare or some other EMP event might decide to wipe out our electronics.

[bayudndy]

This problem is not really widespread and happens depending on the area people live in or the barriers from the government controlling information on the internet. Personally, I have never seen this as a limitation, perhaps I need to reconsider my ability to access that environment instead of blaming the quality of the tool.
Not only the internet but also many other things in our lives, people judge and judge only from a personal perspective without really seeing their own mistakes, some prejudices are formed since you were born. I came from my parents and grandparents who you know, and I know a national proverb that says 'a frog lives in a well, it only sees the world as small as the mouth of the well'.

[Freddie Boyer]

While it is true that Bitcoin requires internet connectivity to function, I think this is a limitation that can disrupt internet services in certain situations such as natural disasters or government-imposed restrictions for one reason or another. But, here's the truth. This is where the government really comes in, if they fully support this adoption, not only that, but satellite-based internet is trying to help make Bitcoin more accessible in areas with limited connectivity, because there are huge benefits that Bitcoin offers, which are still significant.

[traderethereum]

There may be some truth in what @ OP said because if the government turns off internet services in one country, they can't use Bitcoin.
But with the current conditions, the government will not turn off internet services.
Maybe they will only limit internet services and allow citizens to access sites deemed not to endanger the government.
But we know that nowadays, people can still use a VPN to bypass government restrictions to read or know more information.
And maybe that's a Bitcoin limitation that can prevent users from accessing Bitcoin.

[flyingcarpet]

Isn't something that your freedom to use internet? For sure the government announced something regarding to the down of internet services, but if it was permanent and not temporary then I definitely not let it slide since there's a lot of people in a country that are relying on the internet like home-based jobs, communication via internet and also the crypto industry. I couldn't even imagine a world that there's no internet since my money sources are from online. If that's the case you could try the recommendation above mentioned about satellite but it's my first time hearing about it.

I hope that the problem with the Internet is temporary. Read the news: in Pakistan, the government shut down the internet indefinitely due to popular unrest. https://technoblender.com/pakistan-internet-restrictions-could-be-indefinite/
Innocent people are forced to accept government decisions. I don't think the lack of internet will last long.

The absence or partial provision of the Internet is a big problem in today's age. Trying to solve this problem yourself is both costly and difficult. Today, it should not be acceptable for managers to make decisions in this way without a valid reason. There is no gain that can be achieved with prohibitions. How logical would it be to cut off the internet while living in the internet age? I hope such situations never happen anywhere else in the world.

I had heard of the methods mentioned in the comments, but I could not experience it. In such cases, methods that can do business like Starlink should become widespread all over the world and should be accessible without forcing people financially. I'd like something like this to happen, but nowadays there's not much we can use cheaply.

[Outhue]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

Get a StarLink and your problem is solved, you don't have to rely on your country's internet service providers, or if you know other satellite 🛰️ network provider you can just buy their dish and subscribe to the network, it won't take much of your time, the only problem is the cost, they are always more costly than normal internet subs that we do on PC and Mobile.

Before you believe that this is a flaw for Bitcoin I think you should understand that Bitcoin was created with using the internet in mind, everything blockchain requires the internet so it was directly created for the use on the internet.

[Aikidoka]

I'm truly sorry that this issue occurred in your country. It's clear that the absence of internet would have a big impact on any country given that people nowadays rely heavily on the internet for multiple services.

I think there are some alternatives to accessing the internet and using Bitcoin in the case of a complete internet blackout. One of these alternatives is Starlink^[1], which is an advanced broadband satellite internet service created by Elon Musk.

However, when looking at the map^[2] provided it appears that Starlink's service does not currently cover all countries in the world. I did notice that Pakistan is listed as "Coming soon" and is "Pending regulatory approval" This suggests that there is a possibility that Starlink's coverage will expand to include almost all countries in the world in the near future. If that happens it could enable anyone to access the internet via satellite in just a couple of years.

[1]: https://www.starlink.com/
[2]: https://www.starlink.com/map

[Victorik]

Not just BTC, the internet this days controls a whole lot, and lack of connectivity will do lot of havoc in terms of economic damages and this will result to a lot of loses.
The world has become a global village and the internet is very much needed to achieve this global inclusiveness.

[rby]

This is not the problem of bitcoin, but the problem with your government that disabled internet in your country. You can use Starlink instead of relying on local service providers.

Elon Musk's Starlink finally registered in Pakistan to roll out internet services. ISLAMABAD – Elon Musk's famous satellite broadband provider Starlink has reportedly registered to operate and provide internet services in Pakistan.

It is not as easy as you said for anyone to survive and still be able to use bitcoin in a country where the government disconnected her people from WWW.
Bitcoin on it's own is not simple to learn and it is more difficult when it is greeted with some situations like the one explained by Op.

There is no doubt, this kind of situation will be a large contributor to the poor adoption of bitcoin is such country. While people are forced to believe the fiat which is readily available to them.
Does anyone actually know why their government took such an drastic decision?

[Woodie]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

Sorry about your situation hope the government isnt being oppressive in trying to control the people, but other alternatives I remember seeing on one of the threads here involved not using the internet but sms and it was being used in South Africa . Besides the internet you can use sms, radio, or satellite .
Read about it here https://www.hedgewithcrypto.com/can-bitcoin-run-without-the-internet/

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

Technically as mentioned above, internet isn't the only way to use the internet....Btw most of us access internet using radio but satellite internet services such as Starlink can provide an alternative access to such services if available, otherwise sms, radio, or satellite are means we can keep using our bitcoin.

[ilovealtcoins]

Not just BTC, the internet this days controls a whole lot, and lack of connectivity will do lot of havoc in terms of economic damages and this will result to a lot of loses.
The world has become a global village and the internet is very much needed to achieve this global inclusiveness.

If our body needs water to live, the internet is like water to the world economy, to maintain the world economy, certain needs the internet. The internet is tied to everything in this world, not just bitcoin, so there's nothing to worry about when the government thinks it's possible to destroy bitcoin by shutting down the internet. If they did, it would be like burying themselves alive.

[CryptoHeadlineNews]

Gone are those days when we live in an era where we could live without access to an internet connection because even the banking sector needs this internet for daily transactions and likewise all other economically driven sectors need this internet for the growth of a country's well-being in the eyes of international communities. Because me hearing how the Pakistan government denied its citizens access to the use of internet connection, for me I see that as not only a fight against the use of Bitcoin, but a selfish act done to deny all those whose only source of income was through the internet connection (i.e bloggers, forex traders & social media influencers) whose only source of income was through an internet connection, and hence providing unfavorable environment for investors, as nobody will want to invest & stay in an area without internet connection.
Because just as air is very important for life, so has internet connection become very important to many of us humans now in this 21st century & year 2023.

[coinerer]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

Bitcoin is not the only currency or the only medium that is completely dependent on the Internet. In this Technologically world almost everything is impossible to do without internet.  And everything from government data repositories has become completely dependent on the Internet. So there is no way to shut down the internet and the government will never do it.  So there is no reason to worry about it. yes it is true that without the internet Bitcoin would not exist. but in today's era, this universe cannot run without internet

[Stella Mese]

Not just BTC, the internet this days controls a whole lot, and lack of connectivity will do lot of havoc in terms of economic damages and this will result to a lot of loses.
The world has become a global village and the internet is very much needed to achieve this global inclusiveness.

yes' the internet is really needed by the world, because without the internet in my opinion it will cause havoc
especially when it comes to business
and economy.
and I also can't imagine if the internet in this world is dead
because in my opinion buying and selling btc transactions will also be difficult if the internet is off. and I hope that the internet will not die.

[posi]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

Bitcoin is not the only currency or the only medium that is completely dependent on the Internet. In this Technologically world almost everything is impossible to do without internet.  And everything from government data repositories has become completely dependent on the Internet. So there is no way to shut down the internet and the government will never do it.  So there is no reason to worry about it. yes it is true that without the internet Bitcoin would not exist. but in today's era, this universe cannot run without internet

I don't consider what the OP said as a threat to bitcoin because the internet is not only important for bitcoin but important for the whole world. Up to the present time, most of our professions, jobs as well as our daily living needs need the internet. Without the internet, our world would go back to the stone age, and it would take us thousands of years to rebuild from scratch without the internet. I don't believe that just because the government wants to destroy bitcoin, the government makes that stupid decision. I'm not really worried about that at all.

[ringgo96]

This is not a problem of Bitcoin but the government of your country that is in trouble, because we all know that whatever is used today all use the network and this has become a basic need so that network improvement continues to be developed, but your country is different this is certainly not a Bitcoin problem, then you have to move places so that network access can still be used to connect to internet media, especially Bitcoin which we currently have to follow.

[Wildwest]

Currently all countries have used the internet network to access every corner of their country, so this not only works for bitcoin and all other interests must also be relied on, then your country is having problems with the network not bitcoin, so overcome that problem first then I believe bitcoin will be fine, because we already live in the age of technology so the internet will always be the main mainstay to access our needs, Moreover, Bitcoin was created as a coin that must use the network to get something we want.

[qwertyup23]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

I will be honest- if the government indeed shut down the internet, then my BTCs would be the least of my concerned. Imagine, all communications with other people across the globe would be hindered and prejudiced by such action.

Although this may be the case, this is indeed one of the things that I have mentioned in various threads mentioning about "BTC as a currency." Like what I mentioned before, this benefits only first-world countries given that they have easier internet access and connection at the same time. As compared to third-world countries who suffer from connection, this is a big hindrance and challenge at the same time.

Though there are also some hardware wallets that may transfer BTCs offline, I doubt that everyone has access to it also.

[Crptomagma]

For me in this our generation there can only be a momentary shutdown of network. It cannot last for so long. So believe me there must be a way out.

[Wend]

..

Though there are also some hardware wallets that may transfer BTCs offline, I doubt that everyone has access to it also.

Is this true? I've heard it a few times before but never seen it. Honestly, I don't think it will work because bitcoin is built on the Internet, and miners will confirm transactions when it is connected. If you can use bitcoin offline, it's only temporary, I mean, only when you have an internet connection again will the transaction complete. That means using bitcoin offline is useless, the transaction will never be completed if we lose the internet forever.

[AnonBitCoiner]

In almost every country every single work requires Internet and I think that without Internet the success rate of country become down. Operations of bitcoin cannot be performed without the use of bitcoin but in Pakistan as you said that Internet services were suspended so all services were not suspended just personal services were closed for few days.

It is necessary that in such situations use another way because without Internet nothing is possible as every operation is dependent on Internet in modern age. It is crucial to be prepare for any situations as government can do anything anytime so its up to you that how you manage such harsh conditions.

[imamusma]

As others have said, there is always the option of sending bitcoins even without an internet connection. Many people may not understand it and may not even realize it in the first place, but things like these need to be learned so that you can always use bitcoin regardless of whether your government shuts down the internet or not.

I realized that the availability of the internet is one of the most important things for smooth bitcoin transactions. In fact, I'm sure any country where it's difficult to get an internet connection, bitcoin is not suitable there and the people probably won't bother to do it any other way. Bitcoin until recently was an alternative currency that could or could not be used to pay and receive payments. So if there are complex use cases, then I don't think they need to force it any other way.

[hannahB4]

You are quite right that internet availability is one of the limitations to accessing Bitcoin. That is why does in underdeveloped countries where no internet facility runs cannot use Bitcoin for now. There should be an alternative in your country for another source of internet aside from the one your government is in charge of, just do your findings.

[Ryu_Ar1]

I think the problem in this case is not bitcoin but indeed your country is having a little problem in that regard and there needs to be a comprehensive improvement there.
Sorry but not to discriminate against your country in this case but indeed when you say that there is a problem in the prevailing law and order situation then indeed it is something that is not directly related to bitcoin.
Even if in this case what you say is true that the internet is still in control for the smooth running of bitcoin but on the other hand this cannot be equated for every country especially for now the internet is non-stop without stopping every day.
Now in this case blame some conditions in your country or at least there must be direct movement to minimize it because if that happens you not only can't access bitcoin even open this site you have a problem right.

[Victorik]

Not just BTC, the internet this days controls a whole lot, and lack of connectivity will do lot of havoc in terms of economic damages and this will result to a lot of loses.
The world has become a global village and the internet is very much needed to achieve this global inclusiveness.

If our body needs water to live, the internet is like water to the world economy, to maintain the world economy, certain needs the internet. The internet is tied to everything in this world, not just bitcoin, so there's nothing to worry about when the government thinks it's possible to destroy bitcoin by shutting down the internet. If they did, it would be like burying themselves alive.

If the government decides to shut the internet down, they will be affected as well as most of the transaction these days are done using the internet. Except they will have to block access to crypto currency wallet and exchanges.

[bettercrypto]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

It cannot be denied that in this era, the internet is a big part of our being part of the bitcoin or crypto industry. And we can't really make a transaction here without the internet.

       In addition to that, as far as I know, I have read some topics here in the forum that even without internet, it is still possible to make a transaction with bitcoin via sms, it just seems that it has not been implemented yet and how many countries are doing it, I'm not sure if it is implemented in India or Africa.

[goldkingcoiner]

This is not the problem of bitcoin, but the problem with your government that disabled internet in your country. You can use Starlink instead of relying on local service providers.

Elon Musk's Starlink finally registered in Pakistan to roll out internet services. ISLAMABAD – Elon Musk's famous satellite broadband provider Starlink has reportedly registered to operate and provide internet services in Pakistan.

Technically, if you have access to the technology and the satellite link, you can have internet anywhere in the world, without having to ask any government for their permission. If anything, does that not make the internet somewhat decentralised? I realise that not everyone has a starlink satellite dish and a ground transmitter powerful enough to broadcast to any Starlink satellite. But the possibility is there.

I think that possibility will become an affordable and simple-tech reality in the near future. And then once we have decentralized internet access, there will be no problem with Bitcoin, as OP calls it. Although I would rather call it a connectivity issue.

[Jimmycrooks]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

Internet isn't a limitation to bitcoin. Internet is an integral part of bitcoin and Bitcoin would be nothing without it. So saying internet is a limitation of bitcoin is a huge fallacy.

Whatever plight you might be facing lies with your government and not internet.

The only advise I can offer it's to get a reliable VPN for internet access in other countries

[Alisha-k]

What's this generation with without the internet, the internet is basically an integral part of our lives and it's in no way a limitation for Bitcoin.

it is still possible to make a transaction with bitcoin via sms, it just seems that it has not been implemented yet and how many countries are doing it, I'm not sure if it is implemented in India or Africa.

haven't heard nor come across this information, personally I doubt it's authenticity but until I am able to confirm it, I rest my case.

[lixer]

I don't consider what the OP said as a threat to bitcoin because the internet is not only important for bitcoin but important for the whole world. Up to the present time, most of our professions, jobs as well as our daily living needs need the internet. Without the internet, our world would go back to the stone age, and it would take us thousands of years to rebuild from scratch without the internet. I don't believe that just because the government wants to destroy bitcoin, the government makes that stupid decision. I'm not really worried about that at all.

Turning off the internet is obviously not an option for a government only to stop Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies from prospering within a country or a region. As you said, almost every single thing these days require the internet as we are living in a digital world and there is technology in almost everything that we use in our daily lives apart from all the businesses and industries.

Also, traditional financial institutions that are banks, can't operate without the Internet as well, and I don't think that a government would want the banks to shut down or start using only papers and landlines for all their operations which isn't possible at all.

[Onyeeze]

Not everything has to be involve to Bitcoin.  I think it's a government issue that has nothing to do with Bitcoin. Although the internet is required to manage bitcoins.The country you live in may have government-run internet services down.But you can use other internet services.  A country's government will never shut down all the internet in their country, because today it is impossible to do anything without the internet.  Maybe there is some error in the government internet due to which the internet service is down now.I don't think it's permanently closed, maybe temporarily.Hope the government will solve this problem soon.

Government have alot to do for internet, that is why sometimes I said if governments wants to bridge the existing of bitcoin they can, buy making websites of bitcoin to be errors when you login or type anything related to bitcoin, so I believe that its things that will erupt bitcoin existence

[LittleBitFunny]

I don't consider what the OP said as a threat to bitcoin because the internet is not only important for bitcoin but important for the whole world. Up to the present time, most of our professions, jobs as well as our daily living needs need the internet. Without the internet, our world would go back to the stone age, and it would take us thousands of years to rebuild from scratch without the internet. I don't believe that just because the government wants to destroy bitcoin, the government makes that stupid decision. I'm not really worried about that at all.

Turning off the internet is obviously not an option for a government only to stop Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies from prospering within a country or a region. As you said, almost every single thing these days require the internet as we are living in a digital world and there is technology in almost everything that we use in our daily lives apart from all the businesses and industries.

Also, traditional financial institutions that are banks, can't operate without the Internet as well, and I don't think that a government would want the banks to shut down or start using only papers and landlines for all their operations which isn't possible at all.

I used to think about this, but honestly, it is impossible because the internet plays a hugely important role in almost every industry in the world. A global shutdown of the internet is not possible, the world economy will even collapse, let alone bitcoin or the banks, and governments will never let that happen just because they want to destroy bitcoin. Bitcoin is not a terrorist-grade threat that governments must resort to as a last resort. So I also agree that the internet is not the limitation of bitcoin.

[Crypt0Gore]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

Internet isn't a limitation to bitcoin. Internet is an integral part of bitcoin and Bitcoin would be nothing without it. So saying internet is a limitation of bitcoin is a huge fallacy.

Whatever plight you might be facing lies with your government and not internet.

The only advise I can offer it's to get a reliable VPN for internet access in other countries

You nailed it newbie, the problem isn't the internet but the country that OP is from, he can get rid of this problem in two ways and one is more convenient than the other.

1. He can leave that country behind and move to another if you really want to build a foundation around Bitcoin and crypto, I have see too many people leaving their motherland and move to a foreign country in search of a better life.

2. He can subscribe to a satellite internet providers instead but this have it's cost and also you will need to be in a remote area where there is less activities because your satellite dish will be outdoors for it to get a good signal everyday and people will see it, with gossips going around people will know that you are the only one using the internet, in a country that doesn't want it, sounds like it's against the law in the country?

its on you to make a good decision, if the internet is limiting your potential or opportunities you need to get your ass out of that country before you get too old and can't fo anything anymore.

[Magic-Money]

The cryptocurrency industries market deal with internet providers , without internet, they will be no digital currency, which Bitcoin is a digital assets which one make the use of the internet across the globe for any given transaction through buying and selling as the case maybe. Therefore no internet, Bitcoin will not be function, which is impossible, because internet has come to exist here on the planet earth and no government can shut internet down.

[yazher]

How is that possible? Are they disabling it just temporarily? because if it's no internet, your problem is not only using bitcoins, you have lots of major problems if you lose your internet in your country. As for bitcoins, if you are just planning to hold them, then you don't have any problem at all because you just need to secure and store them somewhere safe. but if you planning to make some kind of gig like accepting bitcoins as payment as everybody did in their community in recent months, then you don't have a choice but to stop your dream because it won't really work since most people out there don't know how to transact bitcoins in online mode.

[nimogsm]

the only option is to wait until everything gets better and the Internet will function as before or look for alternative communication options, starlink has already been mentioned here or other satellite communication options. If everything is really bad then you should think about moving or transferring your data about exchanges and wallets to a trusted person in another country. At least there will be a reserve.

[jeraldskie11]

The cryptocurrency industries market deal with internet providers , without internet, they will be no digital currency, which Bitcoin is a digital assets which one make the use of the internet across the globe for any given transaction through buying and selling as the case maybe. Therefore no internet, Bitcoin will not be function, which is impossible, because internet has come to exist here on the planet earth and no government can shut internet down.

So far from the truth that government will going to shutdown internet the whole country with no valid reason. Internet connection is very important and in the modern days, people feel like they can't leave without it. But there's still possibility of having of no internet especially if there's a war just like what happened in Ukraine. I thought that we can't do any transactions of Bitcoin without internet but it really possible nowadays since there are some people who really find alternative ways to fix this issues.
You can check this link for more details: 4 Ways To Use The Bitcoin Network Without An Internet Connection

[Victorik]

Not just BTC, the internet this days controls a whole lot, and lack of connectivity will do lot of havoc in terms of economic damages and this will result to a lot of loses.
The world has become a global village and the internet is very much needed to achieve this global inclusiveness.

yes' the internet is really needed by the world, because without the internet in my opinion it will cause havoc
especially when it comes to business
and economy.
and I also can't imagine if the internet in this world is dead
because in my opinion buying and selling btc transactions will also be difficult if the internet is off. and I hope that the internet will not die.

Nothing will happen to the internet, the internet is here to stay.
Definitely, economy, defence amongst others will be adversely affected if the internet goes down. Unimaginable damages will be done. So it's not just BTC that will get affected if the internet goes down.

[mendace]

The cryptocurrency industries market deal with internet providers , without internet, they will be no digital currency, which Bitcoin is a digital assets which one make the use of the internet across the globe for any given transaction through buying and selling as the case maybe. Therefore no internet, Bitcoin will not be function, which is impossible, because internet has come to exist here on the planet earth and no government can shut internet down.

In practice what you have written is true but there are other uncommon alternatives if traditional internet coverage is lacking, for example blockstream has started its satellite coverage to synchronize the nodes or you could try a mesh network or a very risky hypothesis using the radio frequencies.  Let's say that if the internet were cut, there would be big problems for the functioning but it can be curbed in some way.

[Raflesia]

I don't consider what the OP said as a threat to bitcoin because the internet is not only important for bitcoin but important for the whole world. Up to the present time, most of our professions, jobs as well as our daily living needs need the internet. Without the internet, our world would go back to the stone age, and it would take us thousands of years to rebuild from scratch without the internet. I don't believe that just because the government wants to destroy bitcoin, the government makes that stupid decision. I'm not really worried about that at all.

Turning off the internet is obviously not an option for a government only to stop Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies from prospering within a country or a region. As you said, almost every single thing these days require the internet as we are living in a digital world and there is technology in almost everything that we use in our daily lives apart from all the businesses and industries.

Also, traditional financial institutions that are banks, can't operate without the Internet as well, and I don't think that a government would want the banks to shut down or start using only papers and landlines for all their operations which isn't possible at all.

It's true, nowadays the Internet is one of the most vital things because apart from anything, maybe even when someone is used to it, they experience problems, let alone for a day, maybe even an hour, they feel bothered by it.
Because as you said in this case, all conditions, be it in terms of work or just to relax, the internet always accompanies us in this matter, so this may not only focus on bitcoin but for the whole.

Back to the context of the OP, even though this indeed hinders bitcoin, but this is only personally affected by the internet in the actual country and it is not related to other things, moreover, it is only a small part of what is hampered by total internet paralysis there.

[Cookdata]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

Sometimes, I wonder if Democracy exists in your Pakistan, why black out the whole country without internet, that is killing human rights and freedom but what do I know, if the majority support such a motion, I think the minor will suffer for their action, everyone has equal right and equal freedom. This is what Bitcoin stands for, a censorship-resistant but right now, access to the internet is the problem.

Have you heard of Elon Musk Stark Net, with this device, you can use the internet anywhere on earth, you don't have to depend on the internet protocol that is supervised by the government, but I doubt if the government will not be against the use of that kind of device because if you have the money and afford 1, you will be able to use the internet anywhere even if your government shut down their own.

[robattfield]

This can be a limit for bitcoin. Nowadays, the internet is an indispensable part of our lives. The fact that it affects all aspects of our lives and our global economy makes it a really, frankly, difficult and deprived society without the internet. The Internet has become an essential infrastructure that supports various industries, businesses, and communications worldwide. So some governments have concerns about bitcoin, and then shutting down the internet is impossible. This is an extreme thing that is only harmful and can severely affect the entire economy of a country if it is really done.

[bettercrypto]

I don't consider what the OP said as a threat to bitcoin because the internet is not only important for bitcoin but important for the whole world. Up to the present time, most of our professions, jobs as well as our daily living needs need the internet. Without the internet, our world would go back to the stone age, and it would take us thousands of years to rebuild from scratch without the internet. I don't believe that just because the government wants to destroy bitcoin, the government makes that stupid decision. I'm not really worried about that at all.

Turning off the internet is obviously not an option for a government only to stop Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies from prospering within a country or a region. As you said, almost every single thing these days require the internet as we are living in a digital world and there is technology in almost everything that we use in our daily lives apart from all the businesses and industries.

Also, traditional financial institutions that are banks, can't operate without the Internet as well, and I don't think that a government would want the banks to shut down or start using only papers and landlines for all their operations which isn't possible at all.

It is true that in today's generation it is impossible for the government of every country to remove the internet just because of bitcoin. Because many will be hit and affected by the lack of internet.

     So until now, other governments are still working on ways to control bitcoin but none of them work because of the decentralization that Bitcoin has and the technology that it has in the blockchain. Maybe if Bitcoin becomes centralized for sure there will be a limit to it. It's just that it's not really going to happen.

[Natalim]

How is that possible? Are they disabling it just temporarily? because if it's no internet, your problem is not only using bitcoins, you have lots of major problems if you lose your internet in your country. As for bitcoins, if you are just planning to hold them, then you don't have any problem at all because you just need to secure and store them somewhere safe. but if you planning to make some kind of gig like accepting bitcoins as payment as everybody did in their community in recent months, then you don't have a choice but to stop your dream because it won't really work since most people out there don't know how to transact bitcoins in online mode.

Besides, we can find a way to have it. But being on a situation or in a place where all our actions and decisions are limited, that was a dying ambition and no way we commit freedom. I would say it is very unfortunate to someone who lives in a country where we can't find freedom but something we need to accept is that life isn't fair enough. We can see some people fully enjoy their life while some are struggling hard to survive.
Yes, stopping such a decision is a big help as OP can do nothing, he'd rather look for another opportunity instead.

[fullhdpixel]

While it is true that Bitcoin requires internet connectivity to function, I think this is a limitation that can disrupt internet services in certain situations such as natural disasters or government-imposed restrictions for one reason or another. But, here's the truth. This is where the government really comes in, if they fully support this adoption, not only that, but satellite-based internet is trying to help make Bitcoin more accessible in areas with limited connectivity, because there are huge benefits that Bitcoin offers, which are still significant.

Bitcoin can't disrupt the internet but internet problems can disrupt our Bitcoin activities. Some of the issues came from our network provider but others are natural like you said disasters. There is also man-made which is the government restriction. I say this one is only minor because people can use VPN and similar tools to bypass those restriction.

I don't think the internet of the country will be cut out because many business are already relying on it but the government can only restrict some sites which they hate or a part of their new law. Satellite internet is helpful on some areas where it's almost impossible to install a tower for internet connection but I think it's a bit costly so poorer governments will still struggle to avail it.

[lalabotax]

It is undeniable that internet and electricity are two very important things because without this, it can be a big problem. We cannot iperate and do any transaction without them. Moreover, this is not only for the impact for Bitcoin but also almost all activities especially related to global activities. That is because this is a product of digital technology.

but, with this, I am sure that this will be always going on because this world has been always developed and developing, so this internet will always exist

[serjent05]

It is undeniable that internet and electricity are two very important things because without this, it can be a big problem. We cannot iperate and do any transaction without them. Moreover, this is not only for the impact for Bitcoin but also almost all activities especially related to global activities. That is because this is a product of digital technology.

but, with this, I am sure that this will be always going on because this world has been always developed and developing, so this internet will always exist

I also agree, electricity and the Internet is the most important factor in the current era.  Without electricity, many Industries will be incapacitated since all industry that is dependent on machinery will stop functioning.  That also includes the internet providers.

While it is true that Bitcoin requires internet connectivity to function, I think this is a limitation that can disrupt internet services in certain situations such as natural disasters or government-imposed restrictions for one reason or another. But, here's the truth. This is where the government really comes in, if they fully support this adoption, not only that, but satellite-based internet is trying to help make Bitcoin more accessible in areas with limited connectivity, because there are huge benefits that Bitcoin offers, which are still significant.

Bitcoin can't disrupt the internet but internet problems can disrupt our Bitcoin activities. Some of the issues came from our network provider but others are natural like you said disasters. There is also man-made which is the government restriction. I say this one is only minor because people can use VPN and similar tools to bypass those restriction.

Bitcoin is created not to disrupt the internet but the financial system.  Aside from that Bitcoin relies on the internet for its network activities.  Without the internet Bitcoin won't function as it was intended miners won't be able to confirm transaction without internet connection.

I don't think the internet of the country will be cut out because many business are already relying on it but the government can only restrict some sites which they hate or a part of their new law. Satellite internet is helpful on some areas where it's almost impossible to install a tower for internet connection but I think it's a bit costly so poorer governments will still struggle to avail it.

Almost all activities especially communication relies on the Internet.  So the government will think twice about removing it just to supress Bitcoin.  The government will lose more than the gain from stopping BTC if they disable internet in their country.

[loopes]

I don't think the internet of the country will be cut out because many business are already relying on it but the government can only restrict some sites which they hate or a part of their new law. Satellite internet is helpful on some areas where it's almost impossible to install a tower for internet connection but I think it's a bit costly so poorer governments will still struggle to avail it.

Almost all activities especially communication relies on the Internet.  So the government will think twice about removing it just to supress Bitcoin.  The government will lose more than the gain from stopping BTC if they disable internet in their country.

They will not ease to cut out the internet of course they will lose many things because most activities in nowadays need the internet. They only restrict what people access with the internet,  This is like the connection regulator ministry in my government that have restricted access of binance, coinbase, and etc.

[Mauser]

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

I am sorry to hear about your struggle with having a reliable internet connection in Pakistan. Hopefully this is a not regular occurrence as limits your life considerably in the 21th century. It's true that internet is the main issue that leads to problems we can face when dealing with crypto currencies, but we should be aware that internet is being advanced and new ways are developed. The biggest game changer is going to be Starlink from Elon Musk which as already around 4000 satellites in orbit from the required 10,000 they need to cover the world. Once we can use the internet via the sky around the world and don't need internet cables or cell phone coverage, life will be much easier. Especially in remote areas where there is no cell phone coverage we will be able to finally use the internet without issue. In case you have regular internet issues you could contact Elon Musk via Twitter and ask him for help, maybe he can setup Starlink in your town like he did with Ukraine.

[Oasisman]

It is undeniable that internet and electricity are two very important things because without this, it can be a big problem. We cannot iperate and do any transaction without them. Moreover, this is not only for the impact for Bitcoin but also almost all activities especially related to global activities. That is because this is a product of digital technology.
but, with this, I am sure that this will be always going on because this world has been always developed and developing, so this internet will always exist

I also agree, electricity and the Internet is the most important factor in the current era.  Without electricity, many Industries will be incapacitated since all industry that is dependent on machinery will stop functioning.  That also includes the internet providers.

I myself would agree to it, electricity and internet connection are all essential not only with bitcoin transaction, but almost everything depends on it. These things may not be something we're going to worry about when transacting with bitcoin, because we have been developing more ways to generate electricity and internet service provider were also expanding as well as the technology behind it. So, I won't really consider it a limitation to bitcoin. The limitation of bitcoin is when the people stops using it and the miners put a stop in their operations, that my friend is the limitation.

[justdimin]

Internet isn't a limitation to bitcoin. Internet is an integral part of bitcoin and Bitcoin would be nothing without it. So saying internet is a limitation of bitcoin is a huge fallacy.

Whatever plight you might be facing lies with your government and not internet.

The only advise I can offer it's to get a reliable VPN for internet access in other countries

You nailed it newbie, the problem isn't the internet but the country that OP is from, he can get rid of this problem in two ways and one is more convenient than the other.

1. He can leave that country behind and move to another if you really want to build a foundation around Bitcoin and crypto, I have see too many people leaving their motherland and move to a foreign country in search of a better life.

2. He can subscribe to a satellite internet providers instead but this have it's cost and also you will need to be in a remote area where there is less activities because your satellite dish will be outdoors for it to get a good signal everyday and people will see it, with gossips going around people will know that you are the only one using the internet, in a country that doesn't want it, sounds like it's against the law in the country?

its on you to make a good decision, if the internet is limiting your potential or opportunities you need to get your ass out of that country before you get too old and can't fo anything anymore.

Moving to another nation is not the solution, this is the solution for newer generation that doesn't understand that if we keep taking the L, then we are going to see every government do the same eventually. You can't just hop to another nation if you are poor and no other nation takes you as well. Like if I wanted to just move to UK and start living there, that's it, just live there and work there and spend rest of my life there, do you think they will accept me? Why would they?

This is why the better method is to get into politics and start changing things from within, if you can do that then you are going to be doing a lot better. I know that it is not going to be an easy thing to do and may take years to change something or you may even fail to change it, but you need to try.

[Raceonsucced]

What you say is true. Bitcoin will not work if there is no internet. That's why the internet is needed. Because from the internet everything works.

[Haunebu]

It isn't really a limitation op since internet getting shutdown everywhere is literally impossible these days. Internet issues come and go everywhere, but you will never observe global internet shutdown for obvious reasons.

This is also why BTC won't just disappear out of the blue someday. BTC, other popular cryptocurrencies and the blockchain tech are here to stay.

[bayu7adi]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

The nation will not abolish the internet without clear justification. It is widely understood that the internet's presence has become an essential network in all aspects of society. From communication, business, education, e-commerce, entertainment, and more, the internet serves as a vital backbone. If a country were to lose internet access, it would result in the stagnation and suboptimal performance of numerous business sectors. Such a situation would only be detrimental to the country in question.

Except for North Korea. I am perplexed by North Korea's ongoing restriction on its population, denying them the freedom to engage in activities like those living in other countries.

[rat03gopoh]

The nation will not abolish the internet without clear justification. It is widely understood that the internet's presence has become an essential network in all aspects of society. From communication, business, education, e-commerce, entertainment, and more, the internet serves as a vital backbone. If a country were to lose internet access, it would result in the stagnation and suboptimal performance of numerous business sectors. Such a situation would only be detrimental to the country in question.

There are times when such a political crisis can force the situation to go without the internet even though the impact is huge in various sectors. But all these setbacks can be recovered slowly by returning to conventional systems, say, what people did 2 decades ago before the internet became a major element.

Except for North Korea. I am perplexed by North Korea's ongoing restriction on its population, denying them the freedom to engage in activities like those living in other countries.

Infrastructure restrictions in North Korea are carried out by imposing cruel sanctions on individuals, so that they don't need technical arrangements to implement restrictions. Normally, anyone can still access the internet there if they have the courage.

[Minecache]

It is undeniable that internet and electricity are two very important things because without this, it can be a big problem. We cannot iperate and do any transaction without them. Moreover, this is not only for the impact for Bitcoin but also almost all activities especially related to global activities. That is because this is a product of digital technology.
but, with this, I am sure that this will be always going on because this world has been always developed and developing, so this internet will always exist

I also agree, electricity and the Internet is the most important factor in the current era.  Without electricity, many Industries will be incapacitated since all industry that is dependent on machinery will stop functioning.  That also includes the internet providers.

I myself would agree to it, electricity and internet connection are all essential not only with bitcoin transaction, but almost everything depends on it. These things may not be something we're going to worry about when transacting with bitcoin, because we have been developing more ways to generate electricity and internet service provider were also expanding as well as the technology behind it. So, I won't really consider it a limitation to bitcoin. The limitation of bitcoin is when the people stops using it and the miners put a stop in their operations, that my friend is the limitation.

Even if we have many ways of generating electricity as well as many internet service providers but all, but if you want to use it or make it available to others, you need the government's consent, if they don't let you make it available to everyone, you dare not violate their directive. They are still the ones who control everything, including electricity and the internet. But I also don't see the internet or electricity as a threat to bitcoin because the government simply cannot turn off all the electricity and the internet connection. Because it is they who are most affected because most of the traditional industries use the internet and electricity.

You are right, the development and limitation of bitcoin depends on the needs of the users, as long as we still have demand for it, it will always grow.

[Asuspawer09]

I am facing a real world issue that prevents me from using Bitcoin.

I live in Pakistan and for last three days cellular internet service all across the country is suspended because of prevailing law and order situation. Internet is working on fixed line connection that is reaching homes. So there is still some connectivity available.

If government shut down internet service even on fixed line connection then there will be complete internet blackout in the country and in that situation we cant use bitcoin.

I think this is also one of limitation of bitcoin that we need internet to use it. 

Bitcoin is the one thing that keeps Bitcoin accessible to the rest of the world without the internet it would probably be difficult to access Bitcoin. But the problem is you don't have access to the internet so that issue wasn't really on the Internet but on your government since they shut down the internet service in your country.

There's nothing you can do about it but wait until the services get back, I mean the internet is one of the important things to access Bitcoin, I don't know if there is an easy way to access Bitcoin without the help of internet service. But for sure internet services will be fixed soon on your country I cant imagine the government preventing people from using the internet, maybe restrictions.

[Nhazwrath]

This type of problem is going to go away shortly with the satellite swarms and phones very shortly going to be able to access the sats directly without cell towers. 

The centralization of the sat swarm is a problem at this time but with time other swarms are going to pop up. 

[Nwada001]

It is undeniable that internet and electricity are two very important things because without this, it can be a big problem. We cannot iperate and do any transaction without them.

Exactly this 21st century is said to be one of the best centuries of all time because of its technical advancement, the introduction of electricity, the internet, and crypto currency, as the case may be. All this needs each other for it to function effectively and achieve its main purpose.
 

Almost all activities especially communication relies on the Internet. 

I disagree with that to some point. In truth, this generation is of a technology age, which has made us rely more on technology than ourselves, which is good, less time-consuming, and stress-free. But before the use of the internet, there was still some level of technology that was used for communication, and it was working effectively for them back in those days, such as the local telephone, which is still currently used in some offices and military places since it can't be rooted. So the government is stopping the use of the internet, which they won't consider doing completely. There will still be some form of communication; they will just have to go back to the same old ways. But like you have said, they will be at a greater disadvantage than they might think they are causing to Bitcoin.