There are many factors that determine the speed at which data travels. Some of the biggest ones are network type, signal strength, and network congestion, to name just a few.
Technology advances so fast. Everyday there seems to be new developments in digital communications. The “what” can be complicated, and the “how” can be downright dizzying for the average consumer. It is difficult to keep up!
Nearly everyone seems to know the importance of having a fast and reliable data connection, but few of us know what that really means, and what actually determines how quickly your data can travel. So here’s a closer look at the factors that come into play.
Network type: 5G vs. 4G vs. LTE
Perhaps the biggest factor affecting data speed is the type of network to which your devices are connected. Over the years, mobile networks have evolved, constantly improving on their speed and efficiency.
- 5G (fifth generation) is the fastest type of mobile network currently available. 5G offers speeds up to 10 Gbps (or 10 billion bits per second) for low latency and better performance, especially noticeable in high-use populated areas.
- 4G LTE (long-term evolution) was a significant improvement over 3G. 4G offers speeds that range from 5 Mbps to 100 Mbps (megabits per second), depending on other network conditions.
- 3G networks and older networks tend to be much slower, often with speeds below 3 Mbps.
Note that your phone will be limited to whatever types of data speeds are available and in geographic range of where you are.
Signal strength and coverage
You could be connected to a 5G network and still notice that your data isn’t as fast as you might need. This could be caused by a weak signal, which leads to buffering a lag. Signal strength is affected by the following:
- Distance from a cell tower will impact the strength—the farther away from a tower, the weaker the signal.
- Obstructions like buildings, trees, or inclement weather can also interfere with signal quality.
- Signal strength tends to be weaker indoors, and can also be obstructed by thick walls (like plaster or brick).
Network congestion
Obviously enough, more users equals more congestion, which you might have noticed at concerts or sporting events. If you’re wondering what determines the speed at which data travels, limited bandwidth of mobile networks means that speed drops for everyone when they become overloaded.
Device capabilities
The quality of your phone or device plays a critical role in determining data speed with older devices being less likely to support the fastest and latest technologies. Even if you happen to be in an area with 5G availability, a phone that only supports 4G LTE won’t be able to reach 5G speeds.
Keeping your software up-to-date can also improve performance and network compatibility.
Background apps and data usage
Running apps in the background causes your device to use a LOT of data. This over-consumption of bandwidth leaves less data available for your current active tasks.
If you’re unsure whether or not your device is doing this, check your data usage settings to help identify apps that consume excessive bandwidth.
Roaming and international travel
Roaming agreements between carriers can affect your data speed when travelling abroad. You can avoid this by using an eSIM. An eSIM allows you to connect to local networks in your destination country, ensuring faster and more reliable internet.
Data plan and network prioritization
Since some carriers prioritize certain users based on their data plans, this could mean that you will find your speed “throttled” if you’re on a cheaper or pre-paid plan. In other words, your connection could be deliberately slowed in favour of users with premium plans.
Speed tip: When purchasing an eSIM with aloSIM, you won’t have to worry about slowdowns from your primary carrier. You will be able to see exactly which networks are used for the particular country or region you select.
Your aloSIM eSIM will automatically switch between network providers to give you the quickest speed and overall experience.
