MOBILE DATA SPEEDS

When it comes to your wireless service, terms like “2G”, “3G”, “4G” and “LTE” can be confusing. Read on to learn more about your data speeds with GCI.

Making Sense of Mobile Connection Speeds 


Understanding mobile networks and data
Carriers, like GCI, offer wireless communication services through mobile networks, sometimes called, cellular networks.

Network connections have advanced, and each represents a significant technological improvement (2G, 3G, 4G). The ‘G’ is short for generation, meaning that 2G, 3G and 4G represent the second, third and fourth generations of mobile broadband internet. LTE, or Long Term Evolution, is the most advanced 4G wireless data format utilized by most wireless carriers.


What does my mobile connection mean for me?
Your mobile connection speed determines what you can access with your wireless device. With 2G speed, you’ll have access to basic web browsing along with sending and receiving text messages. With 3G service, you will be able to shop online, more easily browse the internet, and stream music. With a 4G LTE connection, you can download content at even faster speeds and will have an improved experience when using applications and streaming videos.

Knowing your connection speed will help you understand how and why your connection differs depending on the technology of the mobile network in your area.

 
Speeds (Basic to Advanced)
Your smartphone will display the cellular network it’s connected to and may vary by area.
• 2G or Edge
• 3G, H+ or HSPA+
• 4G LTE  or LTE
 
LTE over Satellite:
LTE over Satellite is different from LTE in places like Anchorage or Fairbanks where LTE traffic travels over the fiber network; LTE over Satellite travels over limited satellite backhaul – which means this LTE will be slower than what customers have come to expect in fiber serviced areas, however, LTE over Satellite will be faster than standard 2G network speeds. Due to smartphone configurations “LTE” will appear when utilizing either type of LTE. At this time, an iPhone 6S or Samsung Galaxy S6 or newer is required to access LTE over satellite.

FAQ: Mobile data on your wireless service plan

How can I view my mobile data usage?

Log into your MyGCI account to view your data usage anytime. If you need help setting up your account, we have a step-by-step guide on how to create your MyGCI profile.

Learn more about how to view your data usage.

Do I need a specific mobile phone device to get LTE?

You will need an LTE capable device. All Apple iPhones and Samsung Galaxy smartphones are LTE capable. 

Do I need a different/specific data plan to access LTE speeds?

You don’t need a specific cellular data plan for LTE speeds but you might want to make sure you have enough data to avoid any overages that might pop up.

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