Mobile Broadband.
Coverage and speed.
Britain's best Mobile Broadband coverage just got better.
UKs biggest broadband network. Connect at home or on the move
Coverage, reliability and speed
Speeds and coverage can make the decision to buy mobile broadband a confusing one. We believe in telling it like it is at 3 so we'll do our best to explain what to consider before getting to grips with your dongle.
When you choose mobile broadband there are three key factors to consider - coverage, reliability and speed. We have Britain's best Mobile Broadband coverage, which means you have the best chance of staying connected at high speeds across the UK whether you are using your dongle at home or on the move.
What is HSDPA?
HSDPA is 3's high speed network which provides internet access at broadband speeds, whether you are at home or out and about.
When other mobile companies talk about the speed of their mobile broadband, they talk about theoretical maximum speeds, not speeds you can actually experience. At 3, we like to tell you how it really is, and so we say "up to 2.8 Mbps" even though our network has a theoretical maximum speed of 3.6 Mbps. The factors which can influence the speeds you experience include:
- The distance you are from the mobile mast
- Trees, buildings and other things between you and the mobile mast
- The number of others users using the mast
Most people on our HSDPA network can expect a download speed ranging from 1Mbps to 1.5 Mbps, allowing you to download a 3-4 minute music track in 30 seconds or less.
Enhanced Mobile Broadband
We are making significant improvements to our network and we are moving from the 3.6 Mbps standard to the 7.2 Mbps standard, offering greater capacity and improved speeds. As part of this improvement, we have NEW enhanced Mobile Broadband Modems (the E169) to take advantage of these upgrades.
The 7.2 Mbps speed is a theoretical maximum figure and an industry standard that is not achievable in everyday use. The 3 enhanced network will begin roll out from mid October. The first cities to benefit from this enhancement are Birmingham, Greater London, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. For more detailed updates please ensure you use our Coverage Checker above.
3 for Coverage
Check the coverage in your area
HSDPA Coverage rollout
UK coverage Map
Our HSDPA network is getting bigger every month and we expect to be at 98% population coverage by early 2009. With 3, you get Britain's best Mobile Broadband coverage, making it easier for you to get connected at home or on the move.
Let us help you choose the right price plan.
- Let us help you choose the right price plan.Get Mobile Broadband on Pay Monthly.
- Get Mobile Broadband on Pay Monthly.Want Mobile Broadband without a contract?
- Want Mobile Broadband without a contract?