Digital divide refers to the uneven distribution of opportunities emerging from Information and Communication Technology (ICT) based development across the globe. There are wide-ranging economic, political and social differences among countries, and the deciding factor is how quickly countries can provide ICT access and benefits to their citizens.

While developed countries have surged forward in terms of digital connectivity, developing countries have lagged behind. This gap between nations in accessing digital technology is termed as the digital divide.

The digital divide also exists within countries. For example, in large countries like India or Russia, metropolitan centres possess better connectivity and access to the digital world compared to peripheral rural areas.