How does mobile coverage work?
A prerequisite for being able to make calls with your mobile phone or use your mobile broadband is that there is mobile coverage at the location where you intend to use it. The coverage at that location affects both speed and functionality. Therefore, it is important to find out how the coverage for the mobile network you want to use is at the places/locations where you primarily intend to call or surf. The coverage may vary between different operators.
Page summary
To be able to use your mobile or mobile broadband, you need to have good coverage. Coverage can vary depending on where you are and which operator you have. Mobile broadband often requires a stronger signal than making calls. It is smart to test the coverage before you get a subscription – for example, with a prepaid card or during a trial period from the operator. Coverage maps show approximately where there is coverage, but are not a guarantee. Coverage can be affected by things like buildings and radio shadows. If the operator has promised coverage but it doesn’t work, and you have it in writing, it can be considered a fault in the service.
Coverage may work better for calls than with internet connection
Even if you have coverage to make calls with your mobile phone, it may be that the coverage is not sufficient for you to get a good connection with mobile broadband because data services normally require higher signal strength than call services. Also, consider that the hardware you use, such as your mobile phone or router, can affect the ability to make calls and surf.
If you cannot find a provider for fixed services or have coverage for mobile broadband and telephony, you may be able to get help via the Swedish Post and Telecom Authority, which has more information about basic telephony and internet connection.
It is good to check the coverage on site before signing a contract
The very best way to check the coverage is to test at the places where it is most important for you to use the service before entering into a contract. For example, you can buy a prepaid card or ask to try a friend’s mobile subscription. You can also ask if the operator offers a trial period. Then carefully check the terms of the offer. You can also ask the operator what applies if it turns out that the coverage is poor in the places where you primarily intend to use the service.
Operators have coverage maps on their websites
Also, find out for yourself if the operator’s coverage map shows coverage in the places where you want to use the service. Keep in mind that coverage can look different even within a fairly small area and that there are places with so-called radio shadows. This means that there are places that lack coverage even if it appears to work in the area. A coverage map can therefore not be seen as a guarantee of coverage everywhere within the marked area.
You can go to the operators’ pages, where you will find contact information and links to coverage maps.
Check terms and information about what the operator says about coverage
Carefully read through the contract before you decide to see what promises and reservations are made about the coverage. In connection with the coverage map and/or contract, there is often information that coverage may vary and that there are areas with so-called radio shadows.