What is the 3G Sunset?
The “3G Sunset” refers to cellular service providers turning off 3G networks. These mobile network operators have been in the process of doing this for years, upgrading from 3G to 4G, and then 4G to LTE. In the future, providers will take the next step in upgrading LTE to 5G. You may have seen some infrastructure being built for this transition.
Why is this a problem?
Older devices in the Internet of Things, like smartphones, GPS units, and even security systems, run on this 3G Network. When companies cut this service off, these devices’ functionality will be greatly decreased and may not even work anymore.
When is the 3G Sunset coming?
Verizon will be the to end their service. They had scheduled their 3G Sunset date as December 31st, 2019, and are only supporting remaining devices on their 3G Network until the end of 2020.
In the United States, AT&T, Sprint, and T-Mobile are not far behind. AT&T has already stopped adding 3G devices to its network and has set its 3G Sunset for the end of 2021. Sprint will end their 3G service the following year. T-Mobile has not yet announced when its 3G service will end, but none of these service providers will provide 3G by 2023.
For more information, click this link to view a memo from Multitech that best shows the expected dates for service providers both in the United States and internationally.
Will the 3G Sunset affect my security?
Most of B Safe’s home security systems communicate through a 3G/4G Network. It was only three years ago that we began to install cell communicators that use LTE instead of a 3G/4G connection. If your system is three years old or older, your system will more than likely be affected by the 3G Sunset. It will affect millions of security systems nationally with a 3G/4G communicator, including yours.
Your system will no longer be able to communicate with your central monitoring station. Your alarm will go off locally, but the station will not know to call the police or send help if there’s an emergency.
How can B Safe solve the problems caused by the 3G Sunset?
B Safe’s fix for the 3G Sunset problem is to upgrade these communicators to LTE. Every few years new technology develops and older technology loses its ability to properly operate. This upgrade is no exception. It is similar to trading in your phone every few years for new technology, but without the upgrade, your system will not work properly.
If you elect to wait, your system will not communicate with the monitoring station after the 3G Sunset occurs. It will cost you hundreds of dollars in both parts and labor to make it operational again.
How does the Cellular Protection Plan prevent these issues?
B Safe’s Cellular Protection Plan protects you for a lifetime of network replacements. For as low as $4.95/month, B Safe will provide you with a new cell communicator for free every time your system needs to be upgraded. This protection plan will cover you through the 3G Sunset and for every cellular upgrade in the future. For less than the cost of a fancy cup of coffee per month, you will be covered. You will also avoid any interruptions in your security. Your system will keep up its ability to communicate for years to come in the future.
Can I add the Cellular Protection Plan to my existing contract?
For more details on how to get Cellular Protection and avoid the 3G Sunset, give us a call at 800-432-3473. One of our representatives will be happy to help answer any of your questions regarding the plan.