Mobile And Broadband Technology Explained – Helpful Tips To Make Your Tech Life A Little Easier

In today’s digital age, mobile and broadband technology has become essential to our lives.

Whether for work, education, entertainment, or communication, reliable connection is crucial. However, navigating the complexities of mobile and broadband services can be daunting. Many of us can find ourselves overwhelmed with terminology, technologies, and providers.

This is where ComReg (the Commission for Communications Regulation) steps in, offering trusted advice and support to consumers using mobile, broadband and home phone services.

Here are some tips to help you feel more confident about the tech in your life.

Understanding Broadband

Broadband refers to high-speed internet access that is always on and faster than traditional dial-up access. It includes various types of internet connections.

The main types of broadband connections available in Ireland are:

• Fibre: is sometimes called Fibre To The Premises (FTTP), Fibre to the Home (FTTH) or Full-Fibre. This is where all cables that bring internet to your home or premises are Fibre Optic offering the highest available speed and most reliability.
• Part Fibre: is Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC) and uses fibre cables up to the local street cabinet and then copper cables from there to your home.
• Cable: is delivered through coaxial cable television lines to the premises and offers faster speeds than copper.
• Copper: is copper telephone lines that connect from the telephone exchange all the way to your home.
• Fixed Wireless or Fixed Wireless Access (FWA): is a type of broadband that uses radio signals to connect a premises.
• Satellite: sends a signal from a telecoms satellite to a satellite dish installed on your property.
• Mobile Broadband: provides an internet connection using a mobile phone or Wi-Fi router which contains a SIM card that connects to the same 5G or 4G signals as a normal mobile phone.

What about 5G?

Firstly, not all mobile phone providers in Ireland offer 5G plans. Yes, having a 5G connection can mean faster data speeds than other mobile connections, but it may also be more expensive. If a 4G connection is not fast enough and limits your mobile usage, then investing in a 5G plan and compatible device may be worthwhile.

Remember, your mobile coverage at home may be impacted by factors, such as:

• Insulation.
• Double and triple-glazed windows.
• Metal framed windows.
• Thickness of walls.
• ComReg’s research has found that building materials used to improve insulation in the home will often limit mobile coverage.

The Role of ComReg

Since its establishment in 2002, ComReg has been Ireland’s regulator of electronic communications, helping to demystify the telecom landscape and empower consumers with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

ComReg offers information, tools, and resources designed to simplify broadband and mobile technology for users.

Introducing the Broadband Checker

One of the tools offered by ComReg is Broadband Checker. This free online tool allows users to check the availability of fixed broadband options at a specific location by entering an Eircode or address. Broadband Checker then provides a table displaying the Network Operator, type of broadband (e.g., fibre), and speed. You can also see a list of Service Providers that may sell broadband on that network.

This information can help you figure out the best available options at your location.

Benefits of Fibre Broadband

Fibre broadband is the latest broadband technology that offers consumers the highest available speed and most reliable broadband. The higher the speed the quicker web pages and images will download, and the higher quality video stream will be possible. In general, the reliability of fibre connections may mean fewer interruptions and a smoother online experience.

Tips to improve connectivity

To get the most out of your service, try some of the following tips:

1. Improve your Wi-Fi signal: Position your Wi-Fi router somewhere central in your home and away from obstructions. Using Wi-Fi extenders can enhance coverage in larger homes.
2. Use Wi-Fi for mobile calls: If you have poor mobile reception indoors, many smartphones allow Wi-Fi calling. This facilitates voice calls over your internet connection.
3. Secure your network: Protect your Wi-Fi with a strong password to prevent unwanted access, which can slow down your connection.

Choosing the right plan

Selecting a broadband plan depends on several factors, including the number of devices connected to the internet at one time, types of online activities, and budget. ComReg’s website offers advice on evaluating your needs and comparing plans. For example, ComReg’s Compare tool lets you compare price plans for mobile, broadband, and bundles from different retailers, ensuring you get the best deal. ComReg’s Mobile Coverage Map shows mobile coverage across the country, helping you choose a provider with the best mobile signal in your area.

Switching Providers

Switching broadband providers can seem daunting, but it can result in savings and better service. ComReg provides guidelines on how to switch providers.

Remember, when switching any loss of service should not exceed one working day. Your rights are designed to ensure minimum inconvenience.

Mobile and broadband technology is an important part of modern life, yet understanding and managing it can be challenging, which is why ComReg provides independent, trustworthy information and tools. By utilising resources like the Broadband Checker, Mobile Coverage Map, and Compare tool, you can make informed decisions and optimise your connectivity, which will facilitate you in enjoying the benefits of technology at home.

For mobile information, click here; for broadband and home phone information, click here.

The ComReg Consumer Care team is available to assist you, or your authorised representative, 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm on Saturday (excluding public holidays).

Email: consumerline@comreg.ie

Phone: (01) 8049668

Text: COMREG or ASKCOMREG to 51500 to receive a call or text back (standard SMS rates apply)

Post: Consumer Care Team, ComReg, One Dockland Central, Guild Street, Dublin 1 D01 E4X0

Irish Sign Language: Irish Sign Language facility is available on request.

Text Relay: You can contact ComReg Consumer Care via text relay. For more information, please visit ITRS – Irish Text Relay Service.

(Source – Irish Independent – Home / Story Plus – Sponsored by ComReg – 28/10/2024)