Network Availability

Network availability means being able to connect to a network when you need it. It depends on your location and the infrastructure available, such as masts and cables.

In rural areas, there are fewer users, so telecom companies may not invest as much in masts and other equipment. This leads to weaker coverage and poorer performance. Streaming video uses a lot of bandwidth and resources, so if several people in a remote village stream videos at the same time, the limited bandwidth becomes strained, giving everyone a poorer service. The same applies to developing countries, where a lack of investment and logistical problems can mean mobile networks are less advanced than in developed countries.

Blackspots are areas with no or poor signal. They are caused by geographical features like hills and valleys, and by buildings that block wireless signals. Tunnels, mountains and buildings can also make a mobile connection drop out or become unstable. Limited or no service, and electrical interference, can have the same effect.

Not everything that stops you using a network is a loss of availability. A flat battery, having no data allowance left or a damaged device affects your device or your data plan, not the network itself. A generally slow connection is a performance problem rather than a loss of availability.