Connectivity
Network Shutdown
Complete or near-complete disconnection of internet access in a region.
Read the definitionThe definition and detection notes below retain the published reference wording. They are not a current network test.
01 / Definition
What it means.
A network shutdown is the intentional disruption of internet connectivity for a population, region, or country. Shutdowns range from complete blackouts to targeted disruptions of mobile data or specific networks.
Shutdowns are typically ordered during protests, elections, or security operations. They have severe economic and humanitarian consequences and are considered a violation of human rights by the UN Human Rights Council.
02 / How We Detect This
What we look for.
We monitor aggregate traffic patterns and probe availability across regions. Sudden drops in reachable probes, BGP route withdrawals, and near-zero traffic from previously active networks indicate shutdowns. We correlate with news reports and official statements to confirm intentional action.
03 / Examples
What it can look like.
Complete internet blackout during elections
Mobile data disabled during protests
Regional shutdown affecting single province
Illustrative examples from the glossary, not incident reports or live observations.
Sources
Read the original.
Reference context & original shorthand
Published bypass label: Impossible to bypass.
This is the original index’s editorial shorthand. Actual access depends on the network and technique; this label is not a guarantee. The glossary has no per-entry publication or review date.
Related links lead to definitions in the published glossary.
Complete definition →