What is Bayern WLAN? A guide to free internet access in Bavaria
By Rachel · 4 min read
Automatically translated from German. · Read original
Bayern WLAN is a public, free and unlimited Wi-Fi network available throughout Bavaria that can be used without registration. It enables anyone to surf the internet round the clock, with no data limits and with parental controls in place. Every hotspot is called “@BayernWLAN” and is connected to the internet at speeds of up to 1 Gbit/s.
Key facts at a glance
- Over 23,000 hotspots (as at 16 February 2020, according to de.wikipedia.org) provide comprehensive internet coverage across Bavaria.
- The maximum speed is 1 Gbit/s; the parental control filter is operated by Vodafone (de.wikipedia.org).
- The project was launched in 2015 with a target of 10,000 access points by 2020; the 20,000 mark was reached ahead of schedule in June 2019 (de.wikipedia.org).
- Free access for everyone: no registration, no passwords, no data limits (alleantworten.de).
- Local authorities receive funding of up to €10,000 for up to four locations; the ongoing monthly fees range from €20 to €29 (alleantworten.de).
How does Bayern WLAN work?
You do not need to log in – the network is open and available to everyone. Switch on Wi-Fi on your smartphone or tablet, search for available networks and select ‘@BayernWLAN’. After a few seconds, your device will be connected and you can browse the internet. The parental control filter is already built in and is managed by Vodafone, independently of the network operator (de.wikipedia.org).
Which locations are covered?
More than 23,000 hotspots across Bavaria, including over 1,350 public transport buses. Coverage includes town centres, parks, public spaces, railway stations and public transport. The following table provides an overview of the main location categories and the associated costs for local authorities:
| Location type | Speed | Funding per 4 locations | Running costs per month |
|---|---|---|---|
| City centre | up to 1 Gbit/s | €10,000 | €20–29 |
| Park | up to 1 Gbit/s | €10,000 | €20–29 |
| Public transport bus | up to 1 Gbit/s | €10,000 | €20–29 |
| Railway station | up to 1 Gbit/s | €10,000 | €20–29 |
How fast is the network?
All hotspots are connected to the internet at speeds of up to 1 Gbit/s (de.wikipedia.org). In practice, the actual browsing speed depends on network utilisation and the distance from the hotspot, but the capacity is sufficient for most applications, from simple web browsing to HD streaming.
Costs and funding
The Free State supports local authorities in setting up Wi-Fi hotspots with up to €10,000 for up to four locations. For regional projects, an additional grant of €10,000 can be applied for (de.wikipedia.org). The ongoing monthly fees range (depending on the type of access point) from €20 to €29 (alleantworten.de). You can use the percentage calculator to compare the monthly costs for local authorities and check how the funding affects the budget.
Security and protection of minors
All BayernWLAN hotspots use an integrated parental control filter, which is operated independently by Vodafone. The network itself is not encrypted, as it is a public Wi-Fi network; you should therefore take the usual security precautions when transmitting sensitive data (e.g. HTTPS, VPN). The filter ensures that minors cannot access inappropriate content (de.wikipedia.org).
Troubleshooting – common errors
If the connection is not working, delete “@BayernWLAN” from your device’s Wi-Fi settings and search for it again. Some users report that the automatic reconnection feature needs to be disabled. Furthermore, the use of nearby hotspot management services can lead to temporary connection problems (alleantworten.de). If problems persist, restarting the device or switching to a different network often helps.
Alternatives and additional services
In some venues, such as McDonald’s, Starbucks or DB Lounges, there are additional time limits or special free hotspots. These services complement the widespread BayernWLAN network but often offer time-limited access (alleantworten.de). If you need further information on public Wi-Fi, you’ll find useful details on the associated tax implications in the VAT calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can use BayernWLAN?
Anyone – whether a local, tourist or visitor – can use the network without having to register. There are no age restrictions, although the parental control filter protects minors.
Do I need a password to connect?
No. The hotspot is called “@BayernWLAN” and is open; you simply need to select the network. No login or passwords are required.
Which devices are supported?
Any device with Wi-Fi capability – smartphones, tablets, laptops and even some smartwatches – can connect. The speed is independent of the device but depends on compatibility with WPA2/WPA3.
Is there a data limit?
No. BayernWLAN offers unlimited data. There is no throttling once a certain usage threshold is reached.
How secure is the connection?
The network itself is not encrypted, as it is a public Wi-Fi network. Use HTTPS websites and a VPN to protect your data. The parental control filter prevents access to inappropriate content.
Sources: de.wikipedia.org · alleantworten.de. Last updated: 28 October 2026.
