National roaming introduced at increased readiness
In a state of heightened readiness, users of mobile services will be able to utilize other operators’ networks.
The basic rule is that operators are responsible for their services and customers. In peacetime, operators should manage disruptions and ensure that users can use the services.
But if Sweden is in a state of heightened readiness, operators will quickly be able to activate so-called national roaming.
This means that if a network stops working, users of that network can switch to one that still works.
– Being able to make calls, send SMS, and quickly search for information is particularly important during heightened readiness. The work with national roaming is a clear example of how the business sector and the state can collaborate to strengthen total defense, says Minister for Civil Affairs Erik Slottner
Network and support systems prepared
For over two years, operators have been working to prepare networks and support systems to be able to activate national roaming at short notice. There are established routines for how national roaming is activated and communicated.
If a user’s network is down, they will need to make manual settings on the phone to select another network. PTS has prepared informational material on how this is done.
– Cooperation with operators regarding planning, testing, and implementation has worked very well. Now the networks are prepared to quickly activate national roaming in the event of heightened readiness, says Anders Wallinder, head of PTS’s department for preparedness and security protection.
Facts about national roaming during heightened readiness
- National roaming is only activated during heightened readiness
- This means that operators open up their networks to users from other operators.
- Activation occurs when there is inaccessibility in one or more operators’ networks or when there is a clear and obvious risk of inaccessibility in one or more networks.
- Operators have prepared their networks to quickly activate national roaming after Sweden goes into heightened readiness.
- Users need to make settings on the phone to select another network.