2G and 3G are being phased out – what happens next? writes Nicholas Whiting, pictured, VP Alarm Signalling, AddSecure UK.
The ongoing shutdown of 2G and 3G is expected to create faster and more reliable mobile networks. Following the joint statement from government and UK mobile network operators, the UK has already begun to phase out 2G and 3G networks in order to make way for improved 4G and 5G. However, as switch offs take place, security services are at risk of ceasing to work unless action is taken. Some mobile operators have already sunset their 3G networks, but 2025 will see further 2G shutdowns and network changes rolled out across the country as part of the wider transition, no longer making it a viable option for long-term alarm signalling.
Many legacy alarm systems still rely solely on 2G and 3G networks which are at risk of suddenly stopping operation, leaving customers and businesses unknowingly at risk of security breaches. The sunsetting, or gradual shutdown, of older networks is already actively underway, directly affecting millions of devices, what can installers do to navigate the shutoff and maintain connectivity?
There is a ‘hidden danger’ that 2G and3G-reliant legacy systems will still appear to be working, but in reality will have silently stopped as shutdowns are rolled out across the country in phases. It is estimated that the impending switch off will affect around 2.4 million devices, including alarm systems, that are still dependent on these networks for communication, either as their main or backup path. As these legacy services are shutdown and changed to 4G and 5G, devices are much more likely to have intermittent issues and reduced coverage, resulting in service drop outs. Not only does this put customers at security risk, but drop outs, and therefore lack of coverage, can invalidate insurance policies and impact business liability.
With potential security risks looming following shutdowns, installers need to begin working on upgrading systems quickly and proactive preparation and futureproofing will be. There are many 2G alarm signalling systems still on the market, so avoiding these and prioritising solutions that are IP-based or mobile-first, or a combination of both, with a minimum of 4G capability, should be a non-negotiable when it comes to upgrading. Dual-path signalling, that works by combining fixed-line broadband with 4G radio, offers added resilience and meets the compliance expectations that insurers now have.
Upgrading legacy alarm systems ahead of the 2G/3G shutdown brings additional benefits, beyond operational stability and compliance. For example, newer signalling devices offer better reliability and faster communication, thanks to IP-based or 4G-enabled setups that deliver the real-time alerts and remote monitoring. Additionally, many alarm system providers can provide technology and software that can be managed remotely. Switching over to remote-managed alarm systems means future upgrades won’t always require a site visit, saving time for both installers and customers.
As so many UK alarm and telecare systems still depend on 2G/3G networks communication, installers need to make sure that these systems are upgraded soon to ensure continued safety and connectivity. Although network sunsetting so far been a staggered process by operators, installers should start planning now and avoid leaving upgrades until the last minute to ensure a smooth transition from 2G/3G reliance to modern networks. One way to navigate this is to proactively use upcoming service visits to check and replace older devices before the switch off takes place, before they unexpectedly cease to work. Whilst customers might not fully understand the risks of legacy systems, or assume it’s a sales pitch, it’s important to clearly explain the impact of the 2G/3G shutdown and have a good understanding of the benefits the shutdown will bring to help ease the transition and navigate successfully into 4G and IP alarm network solutions. The additional work of educating customers can create a burden on alarm installers, but leaning on suppliers to provide up-to-date information about the shutdown will provide the support needed to ease the transition.
Installers need to act swiftly to ensure that customers have their systems updated ahead of the impending 2G and 3G switch off. The staggered roll out may put installers under a false sense of security, but successfully navigating the changes lie in proactivity.
