Resources

2G / 3G Switch-Off

The UK’s Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) have almost completed their shutdown of 3G services. This change directly impacts IoT devices that are reliant on 3G technology or have no 2G available at the installation site to fall back to. These devices must be upgraded to 4G or 5G compatible solutions to avoid service failures. 2G is going nowhere for now, although MNOs have confirmed they will be switching services off before 2033. Ofcom has previously outlined its expectations for the mobile providers for both the 3G and 2G switch-offs.

Talk to us

city skyscrapers with connecting lines between buildings and sky image

What is the 3G Switch-Off?

The 3G Switch-Off marks the beginning of the UK’s transition to the latest mobile technologies – 4G, 5G and soon 6G. These newer technologies offer many benefits, including improved network performances, high-quality calls and quicker downloads. As part of this upgrade, many older devices will need to be upgraded as their radio modules will not be compatible with 4G or 5G technologies. 2G will remain active, however MNOs have confirmed they will be switching off 2G services by 2033. We are here to guide you through every step, offering solutions to ensure uninterrupted, reliable connectivity.

Key milestone in the 3G Switch-Off timeline:

2024: Vodafone, EE and Three switched off their 3G networks.
2025: Virgin Media O2 are in the process of switching off their 3G network.
2026: No 3G networks available in the UK.

Mobile Connectivity over London 2G 3G 4G 5G

What is the 2G Switch-Off?

The UK’s mobile network landscape continues to evolve, with major network operators EE and Vodafone recently confirming their timelines for phasing out 2G services. We understand that network changes can raise questions for businesses and organisations relying on multi-network connectivity, so we’re here to provide clarity and reassurance about what these announcements mean for your operations.

Key milestone in the 2G Switch-Off timeline:

2025: Virgin Media O2 stopped Roaming Access for non-O2 networks onto their 2G network in October 2025.
2029: EE has confirmed it will begin switching off its 2G network in May 2029.
2030: Vodafone has announced it will switch off its 2G network.
2033: All UK Mobile Networks will close their 2G networks by this date – with many closing down before this date.

High Pole for sending telephone signals image

Preparing you for the Switch-Offs

As the switch-off progresses, it’s essential to understand the impact on your systems that rely on 2G/3G connections. We’re here to support you through every step, keeping your services running smoothly. Here are the basics:

When?

The entire UK 3G network will be closed by 2025. The 2G network will be shut down before 2033, with a reduced investment in these services likely much sooner.

Who is affected?

3G devices will fall back to 2G, but only if this is available at the site. Roaming SIMs will be able to access other networks, where roaming agreements allow this to happen.

What do you need to do?

Avoid the uncertainty but upgrading today. Work with CSL to future-proof your systems, ensuring continuity as the UK transitions to 4G and 5G networks.

The Latest Industry News: Network Changes

Virgin Media O2 2G Roaming Announcement

O2 UK, part of Virgin Media O2, has announced it will end 2G and 3G Roaming Access for non-O2 Networks from 1st October 2025.

Commercial

4G↔5G in Practice: What CSL Multi-network IoT SIMs mean for Vehicles, Hospitals, and Buildings

4G to 5G transitioning is the practical reality for many mixed 4G/5G capable fleets. This short guide explains how multi-network IoT SIMs behave when switching between 5G and 4G networks. Explaining what the change of bearer does to latency, jitter and upload throughput, and how to design guardrails so everyday operations remain predictable. We focus on measurable effects, and show how to plan buffers, priorities and local autonomy so your devices perform consistently across public cellular coverage.

UK Mobile Operators Announce 2G Network Phase-Out: What It Means for Roaming Customers

The UK's mobile network landscape continues to evolve, with major network operators EE and Vodafone recently confirming their timelines for phasing out 2G services. At CSL Group, we understand that network changes can raise questions for businesses and organisations relying on multi-network connectivity, so we're here to provide clarity and reassurance about what these announcements mean for your operations.