Free — status

Free.fr, a subsidiary of the Iliad Group, is a leading French telecommunications company renowned for its disruptive impact on the market. Founded by Xavier Niel in 1999, Free is France's second-largest internet service provider (ISP) and a major mobile network operator. The company's business model is centered on offering innovative, low-cost "triple-play" and "quad-play" services that bundle high-speed broadband, telephony, and television. Free's signature product, the "Freebox," revolutionized the industry by providing a comprehensive suite of services at a competitive price. Their entry into the mobile market in 2012 with Free Mobile similarly drove down prices, significantly altering the French telecommunications landscape. Free is known for its technological advancements, including early adoption of IPv6 and the recent launch of the Freebox Ultra, which features Wi-Fi 7 technology and symmetrical fiber speeds of up to 8 Gbps. The company's success stems from its ability to challenge established players like Orange and SFR by focusing on subscriber value, transparent pricing, and a strong, nationwide network. Free also offers services for businesses under the "Free Pro" brand, providing fiber, mobile, and cybersecurity solutions. With its continuous focus on innovation and affordability, Free remains a key player shaping the future of telecommunications in France.