How to Start an Internet Cafe Business

Anyone can start his or her own Internet cafe as long as proper planning is applied. Learn more on how to start an Internet cafe business effectively.

Internet is one of the most widely-used media in the world today. It is a place for almost anything may it is for entertainment, education, business, and so on.

how to start an internet cafe business

People usually have their own PCs at home or carry with them their laptops and with wireless Internet. But to some who want to access the Internet but don’t have their own laptops, they usually rely on the services of Internet cafes. Since the Internet is very in-demand nowadays, having an Internet cafe can really become a good business that will give good earnings.

Creating a business plan for your Internet cafe is very important so you can strategically measure what you need and what you need to do. Here are some tips on how to start an Internet cafe business effectively.

The first thing that you need to consider when planning to start this kind of business is your budget or initial investment. You may start with a few seats if you have smaller capital. Usually, 10 to 20 seats can be a good start and that means you will have 11 or more computers, one of the main servers,s and the rest for rental. Some can start at their homes and have 5 to 10 seats to accommodate enough customers. But to those who want to start it big, the more seats the better. Having an Internet cafe is not limited to a sole proprietorship. You can ask partners to invest in your business and add investment to your capital and add more seats or products. You may also sell some computer needs such as printer inks, discs, USB storage, and others. Of course, it is normal to offer other services aside from Internet rentals such as printing, games, encoding, layouts, and many more.

Similar Articles

Next to be considered is the business location. Think of how to be a customer looking for a fast and accessible Internet connection. Look for a place that is easy to spot for the customers. The best factors to consider when choosing a location are it has to be near schools or malls. It can also be in the streets where heavy foot traffic is present. Also, make sure that there is no heavy competition in the area. You can either rent a place or build your own place. You can even start at your own backyard if you know there is a high rate of prospective clients.

You can budget $500 to $600 per unit of a desktop computer that you will invest. Remember to always think of the future of the units and this means you don’t have to scrimp on the memory size, processing, or video cards. Make sure that these components are updated and at their maximum sizes. This will save you more money in the future and the return of an investment will be the one focused on.

One of the most important factors in starting this business is the Internet connection. Make sure you subscribe to a service that can offer fast, efficient, and reliable connections. If you have an excellent Internet connection, you won’t even need an advertisement because word-of-mouth from the customers alone will make your business popular. You also have to make sure that you have enough friendly and skilled staff to assist the clients.

So those are few hints in becoming successful in having an Internet cafe.

Recommended Articles

  • Tips to Start a Cyber Cafe
    Cybercafe business runs successfully with the dual purpose of an Internet cafe and related services like providing home broadband connections or selling computer accessories.
  • Start Your Own Gaming Cafe
    How to start a gaming cafe? How much does it need to start a gaming business? If you are looking forward to starting your gaming cafe then read this article to find some tips to get it start and running.

175 Comments

  • joseph mehlomakulu said on May 31, 2010
    My business location will be is in Keimoes, the Northern cape Province of South Africa. I am interested to start a internet cafe.
  • Lucasta Seroko Choma said on August 19, 2010
    my business location is less than 100 meters to the road used by pedestrians and other means of transport. I have a computer business and am running short of enough computer equipment to make this business successful.
  • Yancy Mclean said on October 18, 2010
    I would like to set up my Internet cafe in South East Washington DC. I have been to an internet lab before in NY. There is a software that they use to track and charge how long the user is on the computer. Do you happen to know what and where I can get it.
  • Linda Mdlalose said on December 9, 2010
    My business is located inside the town of Vryheid in RSA, I'm worried that my business flow is too slow I don't know maybe is my poor marketing due to shortage of finance. My concern is How Can I Change This Situation? Anyone who has some ideas please share it with me because I want my business to shine like others. Thanks Worried Internet Cafe Owner
  • Ntando Simelane said on January 8, 2011
    Hi, i just wanna know how much will i need to start my own internet cafe business? How many computers do i need to start an internet cafe?
  • Sophilene Rumble said on February 2, 2011
    Would like to start with internet cafe in Goodwood, Cape Town. No other internet cafe in a radius of 2-3 kilometers. Need to know on which company I can contact for the computer to either rent or buy. I have just rented a huge building and would like to start soonest. Thank you and regards Sophilene, 0734449328
  • Tebello Mofokeng said on February 4, 2011
    My business will be situated at the small shopping centre, in Glenharvie Westonaria, Johannesburg in South Africa. Where can I get computer, price and certificate. Thanks.From Tebello Mofokeng.
  • Mark Daniel said on February 24, 2011
    I want to start my own internet cafe in Western Cape Cape Town Southfield area near a primary school and traffic and shops around how do i go about starting it
  • Mbuyi N said on March 8, 2011
    I want to start my own business in Mpumalanga, Carolina struggling to find a place in our main street since this is a small town. I also want to rent a place that is cheap the ones that are vacant are quite expensive. What should I do please help?
  • James expert adviser said on March 9, 2011
    @Mbuyi N, there are two things. If you pick a place that is cheap and far from the main street then you have to provide the service really cheap compared to others and your customer service should be excellent in-order to get repeating customers. You can pick a place on main street that is going to cost you more and you can charge more to them as well.

    Jestin James
    Startup Biz Hub - Senior Advisor (Staff)

  • siyanda mkhize said on March 17, 2011
    i would like to open my own internet cafe in greytown kzn @ the shopping centre
  • GUGU said on March 29, 2011
    can you help me i want to start a internet cafe business in pongola kzn , how many computers do i have to buy and what must i have first eg; profession.
  • Aubrey N said on April 1, 2011
    I have a business already for an internet cafe, i just need the money, location and the Internet network(uncapped)... I'm from WELKOM, FREE STATE, SOUTH AFRICA... We lack a lot of "better" Cafes here. my number: +27 795427022
  • Elvin Mabelane said on May 23, 2011
    I would like to open an internet cafe in Mpumalanga all i need is the step by step setup program if there is one
  • Mongezi Kheswa said on May 31, 2011
    i would lyk to open my internet cafe in Durban(UMlazi) what need is a money to add up on my capital and also internet supplier
  • John Mabuza said on June 28, 2011
    I want to open an internet cafe here in Daveyton, I've got my own place of which I believe is the right location. Please help me with step by step set up.
  • Marilyn King said on July 6, 2011
    I am in Dublin Ireland and would like to start my internet cafe business.
  • Dimitrius Martin said on July 25, 2011
    I want to open an internet cafe in South Africa, Potcefstroom in the Promosa as there are any there. I need to know where to start and how to go about making a success out of it.
  • Desmond Orapeleng said on August 5, 2011
    My business location will be in Griekwastad, the Northern cape Province of South Africa. I am interested to start a internet cafe. I have one laptop with a modem and I help the school children cause they dont have internet at all. My number is 0711761066
  • Cyabonga Mvubu said on August 18, 2011
    Do u need to have a CK or anything related to that in order to start Internet Cafes Business? My problem is that i dont have much money to start these business so i am hoping on companys like NYDA ,Msobomvu so that disturb my plans cos i dnt know if i am gonna be accepted; But to be successfully in this business is my dream
  • chris said on August 20, 2011
    Dear sir/madam can you please help me to know which good service provider more better than web. the speed is not stable in my internet cafe and i m loosing customers . i dont trust their billion modern
  • Nikiwe mdlangazi said on September 4, 2011
    Hi everyone, I want to open my internet cafe business in south afreiaca. I want to know where do I get funds to do it.
  • nchungo, josephat said on October 8, 2011
    what are the major requirements needed to establish an internet cafe business? pliz email me.lusaka, zambia.
  • Katse Mangonyane said on October 12, 2011
    I would like to start a internet cafe in in a village near mafikeng in the North West, where and how do I start?
  • Melissa said on October 18, 2011
    Myself and friends would like to start up an internet cafe in Cape Town. We would just like to know if there are any licenses required or forms needed to start the business. Please help
  • Nigel Strothers said on October 20, 2011
    Like Yancey McLean, I to would like to bring the convenience and appeal on an internet cafe to not only Southwest DC, but to southern PG County, where I reside. Large box stores and retail chains offering wi-fi are a novelty. I would love to offer a place and setting for internet users to not only enjoy the internet, but create an experience. That what will keep them coming back. Just a thought....
  • tumelo and sikhalo said on October 25, 2011
    we are in the process of starting our own internet cafe. we just need a step by step guide as to how to go about getting the right connection deals and equipment
  • Dave said on November 7, 2011
    I would like to start an Internet cafe in devland, Soweto SA but want to know how much will I need to have
  • BALDWIN MATONGO said on December 8, 2011
    i have got an internet cafe at the corner of loius botha and bedford road in yeoville johannesburg south africa, i would like to offer advice to would be internet cafe owners in south africa on how to set up such business ,best isp on the market and in addition we also supply PCs at very affordable rates. for more information please call me on 0027820614237
  • NkulieK said on December 10, 2011
    I am planning to start an Internet Cafe in Volksrust a small town in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. I already have a space for my small business. What I would like to know is where can I get cheap internet connections, thus saving money and passing those savings to my customers.
  • mark said on December 12, 2011
    hello, am mark i will like to open in cafe in jo"burg, south Africa and i will like to know the exact cost it will cost or a range, the best isp to used and where to source for cheap computers to buy and will also like to know if it is a profitable business to do. and on the other hand if any one is willing to sell his/her cafe with nothing less than 10 systems thanks
  • mark said on December 16, 2011
    my email is bsmiles001@yahoo.com or and am also willing to buy a cafe if anyone has
  • phakamani mbatha emsinga pomeroy said on December 19, 2011
    i am planning to start an internet cafe at my home town which is pomeroy kzn emsinga ,can someone help me on how to write successful business proposal in order to get grant from government plz help me my email is phakamanimbatha@yahoo.com
  • grace ludolph said on January 9, 2012
    Hi, I would like to start an internet cafe and would like to know more about computer brands (price, lifespan, quality, location, etc), photocopiers(operates with cash, like in the libraries), estimate cost, financial assistance. Thanking you in advance
  • Afrika said on January 13, 2012
    Greetings people.My name is ma-afrika and I'm from a small town in the E.C.I would like to start an internet cafe in my town.Can anyone help me by providing a detailed budget breakdown of all the things you need,really want to make this happen.email adress:maafrikan@gmail.com
  • johnny said on January 19, 2012
    greeting good people i am interested in starting my own internet shop in rustenburg and anyone who can help me with inform of how to start plz...email:oagisengbojang@gmail.com
  • Tshepo said on January 19, 2012
    I am from limpopo polokwane and would like to start an internet cafe i already have a good location and i need to know the steps and what i will need.
  • Debbie said on February 14, 2012
    I would like to open an internet cafe around Mabopane in Pretoria and i need to know where i can get cheaper computers and how much do i need?
  • Tebogo Ramalebane said on February 16, 2012
    Hi! I am thinking of starting my own internet cafe business, so my concern is that, how much must I have, and how many computers must I pay for the start? Pleas help I'm looking forward. I can be reached at the following cell number; 083 973 4665.
  • REGINAH said on February 29, 2012
    I WANT TO START INTERNET CAFE BUSINESS MY LOCATION IS KWA TEHMA BUT I WANT TO DO A BUSINESS AT SPRING MY CONTACT NUMBER IS 011 737 7020 0R 074 461 1431 I NEED FINANCIAL SUPPORTER PLEASE.
  • SHEREEN BUDWEG said on March 16, 2012
    I WOULD LIKE TO START A INTERNET CAFE BUSINESS IN CAPE TOWN WHAT DO I NEED PLEASE HELP WITH SETTING UP MY BUSINESS. PLEASE CONTACT ME ON THE FOLLOWING CELL:076-1160 720 (021) 712-8174 FAX (021) 712-7229
  • Lindile Ndleleni Gladwin said on April 19, 2012
    my business location is at Lusikisiki, Vlei A/A, Code 4820. i just need start up solutions and internet cafe software and gamings. I also need the way to finance it.
  • jethro said on April 23, 2012
    HI! I AM PLANNING TO START INTERNET CAFE BUSINESS AT BURGERSFORT IN LIMPOPO. I WOULD APPRECIATE ANY BUSINESS MINDED PARTNER TO CO-JOIN ME. MY NUMBERS ARE 0712407457 MY EMAIL IS JETHROMASHAB@GMAIL.COM.
  • Arthur P. Cayasa said on May 1, 2012
    i am a filipino, currently resident of taguig city, philippines, i am planning to start a computer shop & internet cafe business, i am looking for a business partner or financer. I worked before in saudi arabia as maintenance technician in the field of PLC. now i currently work here in philippines as freelance technician, i make money out of it, but only little for a living, i own some power tools and a manual pipe threader for additional income, but hard to find some customer since i don't have a place or a shop. i tried to do some website(hhtp://jaudeber.weebly.com)to make additional income, but likewise i think it take more years to make a money.
  • Sibusiso HENDRY Mzimba said on May 9, 2012
    Hi, i would like to start my own internet cafe and i have compiled my business plan. i dont have cash to start it. What steps can i take to fulfill my dreams.
  • itumeleng matlala said on May 11, 2012
    i would like to start my own internet cafe but i need all information how can i do that
  • Yolanda said on May 13, 2012
    I am going to open my internet cafe in South Africa, Cape Town and I need the software for tracking the start and end time the customer is on the PC and please give me a step by step guide to start the cafe. Your immediate help would be highly appreciated!!!
  • Elizabeth Sebiloane said on May 15, 2012
    I would like to assist my nephew to start up an internet cafe in Mamelodi-Pretoria. Can someone assist with info where to start and how to go about setting it up, capital required and what sort of knowledge does he require.
  • Chasen Edwards said on June 12, 2012
    I want to start a internet cafe in queens, ny. Not to many out here, most internet cafe's are near or in the city or other boroughs. I would like to know the approximate start up cost and if any one wants to partnership that has similar interest in the area pls contact me...vipag12@yahoo.com
  • nkanyiso said on July 6, 2012
    My business is at Mpangeni next to NPA Hospital. I wish to get more help. I don't have enough computers and I do have CK for my SCHEME. I need help to improve my business.
  • Fuzakazi said on July 16, 2012
    I want to start an internet cafe in Bizana in the Eastern Cape.
  • dhruv gupta said on July 29, 2012
    I want to start my cyber cafe under an ngo. can i do that without any separate registration in India.
  • Lulu said on August 12, 2012
    I have 2 computers that could be hired by someone who wants to start an internet cafe business. I'm in east london. My email is Yindalo@hotmail.com
  • thebe maphanga said on August 31, 2012
    I'm staying in limpopo, maandagshoek i would like to start internet cafe in my area, there is no internet cafe in my area.
  • Thabo Phokojoe said on September 5, 2012
    Student, BOTSHABELO ,FREE STATE, SOUTH AFRICA I would like to start an internet cafe that also sell computer apps. i want to know the start up capital that i should have in order to make success out of it..n need a guidance of a business minded
  • bILLY MANGANI said on September 16, 2012
    I stay in Zambia, Lusaka and I want to start up an Internet Cafe and also service and sell computer consumables, and repair computers too. I need information on how to go about it
  • coney said on September 18, 2012
    I would like to start a internet cafe in eerste river, cape town and I would like to know what type of documents is needed and everything else that is needed to start the business
  • Lwazi said on September 25, 2012
    I want to start a business "internet cafe" i need help in every way that i can be helped. i have a rough plan. I need help in terms of funding even learnership about it. PLEASE HELP ME
  • ZINTLE said on October 10, 2012
    hello i would like to start an internet cafe business. but i dont know where to start, i would like you to tell how much will it cost me & could you please send me a rough business plan so that i can have a clear picture of what i'm going to do. tell what types of documents i will need. i would love to hear from you as soon as possible.
  • Matome Malapile said on October 10, 2012
    Hello i do like to start my own internet cafe in the malls but i dont know about the rent, or how to find the premises to rent on. So i need to know how much is it gonna cost me for rent in the malls. And again i need to know where to rent the computers, server and other material that will be needed. My no:0730181275. i would appreciate for your answer.
  • ashya said on October 12, 2012
    i'm operating internet shop in the philippines for almost 2 years, i've resigning my job in manufacturing company as credit & collection officer because i want to handle my business personally, the business is doing good, i'm offering services like xerox copying, photo and document printing, invitation card, computer part sales and computer repair since my husband is a computer technician, we've just started to 7 units but now i'm running 12 units. guys ONE important advise before u make this business you should now something about computer technically its hard to trust a hired computer technician, and always be updated on technology..i can help you in details about this business from computer specification to operation just e-mail me ashya32@gmail.com
  • Grace said on October 20, 2012
    i want to help my uncle start up a cyber cafe at lagos state, Nigeria. how do i set it up?
  • Princess Xana said on October 20, 2012
    The reason why i want to open a internet cafe in my community is to help people especially the youth to be computer literate, so is there a place that offers training for stuff to be fully literate.
  • Nonelwa said on October 21, 2012
    I want to start an Internet Cafe @ Marapyane in Mpumalanga, I want to know how many computers do I need n how much money must I have to start my business. Nonelwa
  • Bayarmagnai said on October 23, 2012
    Greetings from Mongolia. I've already run own internet cafe in my Erdenet city in Mongolia. I have an experience with internet cafe for 2 years. Before 2 years, I have built my internet cafe within 16 computers near to main street. After 8 months ,I have added additional 16 computers. So now totally 32 computers I have. My income per day is 50 USD. 1 hour = 50 cent in Mongolia. So share your opinion and your income per day. Yours sincerely Bayarmagnai 976-99009139
  • paul said on October 25, 2012
    Hi, I have begun a cyber cafe business in central kenya. I have reliable internet but customers are few and its now one year. Please what can i do?
  • fred rich said on October 27, 2012
    i have started an iCaffe here in tanzania is there any software that may show how many print out have been produced from the printer?
  • James expert adviser said on October 28, 2012

    @fred rich, if your business is small and you have an inkjet or cheaper printer then count your paper before you leave the shop, if you have a costly laser printer then you can see all the details through the printer's ip address.

    Jestin James
    Startup Biz Hub - Senior Advisor (Staff)

  • Wilfred said on November 19, 2012
    Hi wanna start internet cafe in Bugersfort Limpopo i dnt hv money pls help
  • Julia Mafata said on November 29, 2012
    I have scanners, fax machine, photocopy machines,8 computers,2 laminators, 2 public phones, 1 printer and other small requirement for the internet and i need to open a cafe in Orange Farm [Drieziek] where to stay because there is a need of it. But my problem is i dont know who to consult to connect and start operating . Please help.
  • Bongani said on December 3, 2012
    Hi Julia, I stay in Tembisa but am mostly based at orange farm. I want to open an internet cafe at Orange Farm but i lack resources. I have good knowledge of computers and am business minded as well. I can invest my skills and others resources such as switches and connections in business if you don't mind. bongani.j.nhlapo@gmail.com
  • Busisiwe said on December 4, 2012
    hi, i am Busisiwe stay at daveyton ,and i want to open an internet cafe but i lack of resources. i want to know where to start.
  • Nicol said on December 5, 2012
    Hi I am Nicol from Kenya, coast Mombasa city, I would like to start up Internet cafe in In My town area pls advice on how to go a bout this?
  • David mabunda said on December 12, 2012
    Hi everyone i am David in Mabopane in pretoria am interested in opening my own Internet Cafe in Mabopane or help one who already have as i have an International Computer Driving License as my qualification. Anyone who's interested pls contact me on 0736739029 or email mdawood21@ovi.com
  • Andries said on December 18, 2012
    hi, i want to start my own internet cafe, my location is Northern cape( kimberley), could u please submit me with details
  • Johannes Tau said on December 20, 2012
    We are a coop with interest of internet cafe, we have a yard and 2 room next to main road at SEPHAKU VILLAGE, our city is GROBLERSDAL, SOUTH AFRICA, we'll be happy if our request may be taken to consideration
  • SIBONGILE said on December 23, 2012
    Hi I WANT TO START MY OWN INTERNET CAFE, MY LOCATION IS TSAKANE BRAKPAN EXT 12. I HAVE ONE COMPUTER, 3IN1 HP PRINTER & LASER PRINTER CANON. IN MY EXT THERE IS NO INTERNET CAFE IS ONLY IN THE MALL I NEED YOUR HELP OR ADVISE MY CONTACTS 078 970 1709
  • Nemakumbule ntakadzeni godknows said on December 24, 2012
    M nemakumumbule n.g i want to start an internet cafe in polokwane with my partner but the problem is that i dont know where i can get money help email manzhoro@gmail.com i will be happy if i get help
  • Henrik said on December 26, 2012
    As an already established internet cafe / business lounge, we are looking to "Sell" franchising packets. We will be helping you all the way, from scratch to opening day. If anyone have the amount of money needed, then you can get into play very quick. Contact Henrik Daugbjerg on info@atinfinity.co.za
  • imogine Mdakane said on December 28, 2012
    Hi would like to start an internet cafe at soweto in a shopping centre, in gauteng-south africa. Need to know how do you start, where you get computers and connection that is affordable as well.
  • Setjhaba Motsoane said on January 4, 2013
    My partners and I want to setup a cafe in Sebokeng, Vaal, Gauteng!!!
  • SatishRamu said on January 6, 2013
    hello, this is satishramu from india, karnataka, bangalore. i have into an internet business, please suggest me other business which can be additional to net cafe.
  • lucas said on January 19, 2013
    can i start an internet business in rural area if its possible please reply with solution and facts about my location especially deep rural
  • Candy said on January 20, 2013
    I want to start an internet cafe business in Pretoria, please advice on how to start, budget and everything needed to succeed.
  • luyanda makhubela said on January 25, 2013
    i want to start an internet cafe in jeffreys bay, I've got two computers.. So I need someone who can contribute in all the way to succeed..
  • Brenda Sebolai said on January 27, 2013
    Dear Sir/ Madam, I want to open an Internet cafe I know every steps but I need money. Pls help me if there is any option I am currently in Johannesburg. Pls help me as soon as possible.
  • Gideon Kumwenda said on January 29, 2013
    My internet cafe is in Mzuzu ,Malawi opposite St Johns Mental Hospital. Only a month old.
  • Young said on January 31, 2013
    I live in a small village in Nigeria. I want to start an internet cafe business but pls i want to learn more tips on how to do a successful business. My email is masteruzocy@yahoo.com
  • RICCO said on January 31, 2013
    i have a capital of a R 100 000.00, can that be enough to start a successful internet café? i'm planning to open one in durban
  • amitjain said on February 9, 2013
    hi i am from hubli waiting for a sweet beautiful girl. amit 9620922969
  • srinivas said on February 13, 2013
    Dear sir/maddam, I would like to start internet cafe business 10-20 seats. how much i need to invest in this please can you reply to me. Thanks & Regards. srinivas
  • Nobuhle said on February 15, 2013
    I need money to start business in kzn stanger
  • Daniel said on February 16, 2013
    i am daniel from nigeria, i have a plan of opening a cyber cafe. pls advise me on what to do.
  • nkosinathi said on February 19, 2013
    Hi, I would like to start an internet cafe in my hometown stanger. plz! help wth business plan
  • Nadheer said on March 4, 2013
    Good day. i'm from JHB and i'd love some advise from you concerning starting a small internet cafe business in a busy location full of students yet no internet service for then. so i need advise on how to go about opening it, requirements and as well financial advise. Thanks again...
  • Lee semwayo said on March 6, 2013
    I would like to start an internet cafe at my own backyard in mutare in zimbabwe
  • Zach Bunjwa said on March 7, 2013
    Hi i'm Zach pls help me with the B/Plan for the I/Cafe i've already got the the Investor. Rgds
  • Johannes Mongatane said on March 13, 2013
    I would like to start an Internet Cafe with computer training center and employment opportunity centre in Limpopo, Ga-Dikgale. I don't have enough money to do this but partnership will do even if the person want to be silent partner will do. The place is full of youth who struggle with lots of information and resources including employment and entrepreneurship. For them to get all this they have to travel over 50km to Polokwane or Mankweng. There is not even a shopping centre either but is a place of around 1,5m people and maybe less maybe more.
  • Lindiwe said on March 23, 2013
    I'll like start my internet cafe at kempton park, I need to know where can I find a cheap computer and printer, and other office equipments. regards Lindy, email: lindzy.white@gmail.com
  • Terence williams said on March 26, 2013
    I'm looking @ starting a internet cafe in the free state location Rocklands and all I need now is some help with financial projections figures to set a perfect score of income to cover all my costs

Comment

(All the above fields are required.)