Understanding the 3G Sunset
Beginning on February 22, 2022, AT&T, Verizon and other carriers will shutdown their wireless 3G networks. Here's everything you need to know if you have a monitored alarm system.
What is 3G and why does it matter?
3G refers to the "3rd Generation" of cellular communication networks. It was first introduced in 1998 and revolutionized the way we interact with our cell phones and other wirelessly connected products. 3G networks enabled data to be transferred fast enough to enable rapid web browsing and even video streaming on mobile devices.
3G technology was used in many other types of devices, including alarm systems. Doyle and many other security providers utilize cellular communication devices because of their reliability, security and efficiency. If you have an alarm system installed or upgraded sometime prior to 2018, there's a good chance that your system utilizes 3G communication technology.
Why is 3G going away?
Cellular carriers, including AT&T and Verizon, are seeking to shut down older networks to make way for newer LTE and 5G networks. This will dramatically increase the speed of data transfer over the air and make even more innovations possible with the use of this high speed network. This is generally a good thing but it necessitates the conversion of older 3G cell towers and infrastructure to the new high speed technology.
This creates a challenge for those that still utilize the older technology. The most publicized impact is on those with older model cell phones but the impact also includes more "under-the-radar" products such as vehicle tracking GPS units, parking meters, medical pendants and most importantly to us: alarm communicators.
What does this mean for my security?
If your system relies solely on a 3G communicator you will need to replace that device for your system to continue its most critical function, which is monitoring of the system. Without a replacement communication method your system will cease to be monitored. If you have multiple communication paths (I.E. cellular and internet or cellular and phones) then you will most likely continue to be monitored but your cellular communication path will be severed and you will lose the benefit of redundancy.
If you're unsure if you're affected by the 3G sunset we'd encourage you to reach out to us at 844-711-1080. If you've received communications from us informing you that action is required please call us or you can complete the upgrade request form here.