Tiekom

What is Data Roaming on IPhone? Complete Guide

May 26, 2025 Por Tiekom

Sstaying connected while traveling is crucial, whether it’s for business, communication, or entertainment. If you’re an iPhone user and you’ve ever traveled outside of your country or network coverage area, you’ve likely encountered the term “data roaming.”

But what exactly is data roaming on iPhone? How does it work, and why is it important to manage? In this article, we’ll explain to you what data roaming is, how it affects your iPhone usage, and tips to avoid unwanted charges.

What is Data Roaming on iPhone?

Data roaming on iPhone refers to the use of your phone’s internet connection outside your home network, often when you are in another country. Normally, your iPhone connects to your mobile carrier’s network to provide data services such as browsing the web, checking emails, or using apps that require an internet connection.

However, when you travel abroad, you leave your carrier’s coverage area. In such cases, your iPhone connects to a foreign network that partners with your carrier. This process is what we call “roaming.”

When you enable data roaming on iPhone, your device can use mobile data on these partner networks, allowing you to stay connected even when you’re far from home. However, it’s important to note that using data on a foreign network typically incurs additional charges, which can sometimes be significant depending on your mobile plan.

Why Data Roaming Matters?

Having data roaming enabled on your iPhone allows you to stay connected while you travel. Without it, your iPhone won’t be able to access the internet unless you’re connected to Wi-Fi. This means that without data roaming, you won’t be able to use maps, social media apps, or other online services unless you find a Wi-Fi network.

This feature is crucial for travelers, particularly those who rely on mobile data for work, navigation, or staying in touch with family and friends. Imagine being in a foreign country and needing directions, only to find that your data is not working. This is where data roaming on iPhone can be a lifesaver, ensuring that you can access the internet, send messages, and make VoIP calls without interruption.

How to Enable or Disable Data Roaming on iPhone

Managing data roaming on iPhone is simple and can be done with just a few taps:

Open the Settings App: tap on the “Settings” app on your iPhone.
Select Cellular: scroll down and tap on “Cellular” or “Mobile Data,” depending on your iPhone’s region settings.
Tap on Cellular Data Options: here you will find the option labeled “Data Roaming.”
Toggle Data Roaming On or Off: you can turn data roaming on if you need to use mobile data abroad. If you want to avoid roaming charges, simply turn this feature off.

Disabling data roaming is a great way to avoid unexpected roaming charges. However, keep in mind that this will prevent your iPhone from using mobile data while you’re outside your carrier’s network, so you’ll need to rely solely on Wi-Fi.

Roaming Charges: What You Need to Know

One of the biggest concerns with data roaming on iPhone is the potential for high charges. When you use data on a foreign network, your mobile carrier often charges extra fees that are significantly higher than your usual rates.

The rates for data roaming vary depending on your carrier and the country you’re visiting. Some countries have affordable roaming agreements with certain carriers, while others may charge premium rates for data use. It’s important to contact your carrier before traveling to understand what roaming charges to expect and whether they offer international data packages that could help reduce costs.

Some carriers provide international roaming plans that allow you to use your phone abroad at reduced rates or even at no additional cost. Always check with your carrier before your trip to avoid surprise charges.

How to Track Your Data Roaming Usage?

To avoid overusing data while roaming, it’s important to monitor your data consumption during your trip. Your iPhone makes this easy with its built-in data tracking feature:

Open the Settings App: go to “Settings” on your iPhone.
Tap on Cellular or Mobile Data: this will show your current data usage.
Check Data Usage by App: scroll down to see how much data each app is using.
Reset Statistics: If you want to track your data usage from the start of your trip, you can reset the statistics by tapping “Reset Statistics.” This will give you a fresh view of your data consumption while abroad.

Keeping an eye on your data usage ensures that you won’t go over your limit, and you can adjust your habits to avoid extra charges.

Alternatives to Data Roaming

If you’re concerned about data roaming costs, there are several alternatives that can help you stay connected without incurring high fees:

Use Wi-Fi: many hotels, restaurants, and public places offer free Wi-Fi. Whenever possible, use these networks to connect to the internet without using mobile data. This is the simplest and most cost-effective way to avoid roaming charges.

Purchase a Local SIM Card: If you’re staying in a foreign country for an extended period, purchasing a local SIM card can be a cost-effective solution. Local SIM cards often come with affordable data plans, allowing you to use mobile data without the high cost of roaming.
eSIM Technology: some newer iPhones support eSIM, a virtual SIM card that allows you to add a local plan without removing your physical SIM card. This is a great option for travelers who want to switch between networks easily.
International Roaming Plans: many carriers offer international roaming plans that provide a set amount of data for a flat fee. This can be a good option if you want to continue using your phone while abroad without worrying about surprise charges.

When to Use Data Roaming?

There are times when enabling data roaming on iPhone is essential. For instance, if you’re traveling in an area where Wi-Fi is not available and you need immediate access to the internet for navigation or communication, enabling data roaming is necessary. In emergency situations, being able to use mobile data is crucial for staying connected with emergency services or loved ones.

However, if you’re staying in a location with reliable Wi-Fi, such as a hotel or a café, you can turn off data roaming to avoid unnecessary charges and use Wi-Fi instead.

Data roaming on iPhone is an essential feature for those who travel frequently and need reliable internet access while abroad. It allows you to stay connected even when you’re outside of your carrier’s network. However, it’s important to be mindful of potential roaming charges and manage your settings accordingly.

By understanding how data roaming on iPhone works, how to enable or disable it, and how to track your usage, you can avoid unnecessary charges and enjoy a seamless internet experience no matter where you are. Be sure to explore alternatives like using Wi-Fi or purchasing local SIM cards, and always check with your carrier for international roaming options before your next trip. With proper management, you can stay connected without worrying about the cost.

Are you protected from Sim Swap Fraud?

May 19, 2025 Por Tiekom

In an increasingly connected world, our smartphones serve as digital wallets, identity verifiers, and personal assistants. However, this dependence also opens the door to sophisticated cybercrimes—one of the most dangerous being SIM swap fraud.

This method allows hackers to take control of your mobile number, access personal accounts, and even drain bank accounts without needing your physical phone.

Understanding how to protect yourself from SIM swap fraud is essential if you use mobile banking, receive two-factor authentication codes via SMS, or store sensitive information on your phone. In this article, we’ll explain how SIM swapping works, why it’s so harmful, and most importantly, how to defend yourself from becoming a victim.

What Is SIM Swap Fraud?

SIM swap fraud, also known as SIM swapping or SIM hijacking, is a form of identity theft where a scammer convinces your mobile provider to transfer your phone number to a new SIM card—one that they control. Once the swap is completed, the attacker receives all incoming calls, texts, and two-factor authentication (2FA) codes tied to your number.

With access to your phone number, the attacker can reset passwords, gain access to email and financial accounts, and even bypass security systems designed to protect your data.

The fraud doesn’t target your SIM physically—it targets the mobile network provider, using tactics like social engineering, phishing, or bribery to impersonate you and trick the provider into reassigning your number.

How Does SIM Swap Fraud Work?

The process typically unfolds in several stages:

Information Gathering: The attacker collects personal data about the victim through phishing emails, data leaks, social media, or malware. This may include full name, address, phone number, date of birth, and account numbers.
Impersonation: Using the stolen information, the attacker contacts the victim’s mobile carrier, impersonates them, and requests a SIM transfer, claiming the phone was lost or damaged.
SIM Activation: The provider transfers the victim’s number to the attacker’s SIM card. At this point, the victim’s phone loses service.
Account Access: With the new SIM, the attacker receives all SMS-based 2FA codes and can reset passwords to access bank accounts, email services, cryptocurrency wallets, and more.

This type of fraud is growing. According to the FBI, losses related to SIM swap attacks exceeded $68 million in the United States alone in 2021, a number that continues to rise.

Warning Signs of a SIM Swap Attack

Recognizing early signs can help you act before it’s too late. Some red flags include:

Sudden loss of cell service or inability to send/receive texts and calls
Receiving alerts about account changes you didn’t authorize
Notification emails from your provider confirming a SIM change
Being locked out of apps or email accounts due to password resets you didn’t initiate

If you notice any of these signs, contact your mobile provider immediately, and secure your accounts using alternative methods.

How to Protect Yourself from SIM Swap Fraud

There’s no single foolproof way to stop SIM swapping, but several proactive steps can greatly reduce your risk.

1. Use App-Based Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Avoid using SMS-based 2FA whenever possible. Instead, use app-based alternatives like Google Authenticator, Authy, or Microsoft Authenticator, which store the verification codes on your device rather than sending them via SMS.

Why it matters: Even if a hacker steals your SIM, they won’t receive your app-based 2FA codes.

sim swap fraud — Use apps such as Google Authenticator

2. Set up a PIN or Password with your mobile provider

Most mobile carriers allow you to set up an account PIN or security question. This extra layer of protection ensures that any changes to your account—like SIM transfers—require additional verification.

To do this, log into your mobile account or contact customer service. Tiekom, Verizon and T-Mobile offer easy ways to add this feature online.

3. Avoid sharing personal information publicly

Oversharing on social media can make it easier for scammers to impersonate you. Avoid posting your birthday, address, or phone number. The less information available about you online, the harder it is for attackers to convince your provider that they are you.

4. Be wary of Phishing attempts

Phishing emails, texts, or phone calls often pose as banks, service providers, or government agencies. Never click suspicious links or provide personal details to unverified contacts.

When in doubt, go directly to the official website of the service or contact support using verified channels.

5. Monitor your accounts regularly

Check your mobile provider account for any unauthorized changes and review your financial and email accounts for suspicious activity.

Consider setting up account alerts for logins, password changes, or money transfers, so you’re notified immediately if something unusual happens.

6. Use strong, unique passwords

Use a different, complex password for each of your accounts, and store them using a trusted password manager like 1Password or Bitwarden. Reused or weak passwords are an easy target for hackers using credential stuffing techniques.

7. Freeze your credit reports

While not directly related to SIM swapping, freezing your credit reports can prevent attackers from opening new accounts or loans in your name after gaining access to your information.

What to Do If You’re a Victim of SIM Swap Fraud

If you suspect that your number has been hijacked:

Contact your mobile provider immediately and report the unauthorized SIM change.
Regain control of your number by requesting a re-issue of your SIM.
Change passwords to all major accounts, especially those tied to your phone number or email.
Notify your bank or financial institution, and place a fraud alert on your accounts.
Report the incident to local authorities.

Time is critical. The faster you act, the less damage an attacker can do.

Stay One Step Ahead of SIM Swappers

SIM swap fraud is one of the fastest-growing cyber threats, targeting anyone with a phone number linked to important accounts. While no system is 100% secure, implementing the right precautions can dramatically reduce your risk.

By avoiding SMS-based 2FA, enabling security PINs, practicing safe online habits, and monitoring your accounts closely, you can stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and keep your digital identity safe.

For more security tips and updates on mobile fraud prevention, visit trusted cybersecurity sources like Krebs on Security or the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency.

How to boost your wifi signal: tips for a Faster, Stronger Connection

May 12, 2025 Por Tiekom

Having a fast and reliable internet connection is essential for work, entertainment, and everyday communication. However, even with a good internet plan, many users experience slow speeds, dropped connections, or weak WiFi signals at home or in the office. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to boost your WiFi signal and enjoy a smoother online experience.

This guide explains how to boost your WiFi signal, offering practical tips to improve speed, coverage, and reliability without needing expensive upgrades.

Why Your WiFi Signal Might Be Weak

At first, it’s important to understand why your WiFi might be underperforming. Common causes of weak WiFi include physical obstacles, such as walls and furniture, interference from other electronic devices, distance from the router, and router limitations. Even factors like the router’s age and outdated firmware can significantly impact wireless performance.

Position Your Router for Maximum Coverage

One of the easiest ways to boost your WiFi signal is to reposition your router. Many users make the mistake of placing the router near the floor, inside a cabinet, or in a distant corner of the house.

The best place for a WiFi router is a central, elevated location, free from physical obstructions. Ideally, it should be placed high on a shelf and away from walls, metal objects, and appliances like microwaves or cordless phones that can interfere with the signal.

Update Your Router’s Firmware

Manufacturers regularly release firmware updates to improve performance, fix bugs, and enhance security. Running outdated firmware can cause speed drops and connection issues.

To check for updates, log into your router’s admin panel (usually by entering its IP address in a browser) and look for a firmware update option. Some newer models even update automatically. For detailed guidance, visit your router manufacturer’s website, such as Netgear Support or TP-Link Support.

Upgrade to a Modern Router

If your router is more than five years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Newer routers support WiFi 5 (802.11ac) or WiFi 6 (802.11ax) standards, offering better speed, range, and device handling.

how to boost your wifi signal — If your router is more than five years old, it may be time for an upgrade.

WiFi 6 routers are designed to manage multiple devices simultaneously, making them ideal for households with smartphones, smart TVs, tablets, and IoT devices all competing for bandwidth. Investing in a dual-band or tri-band router can also help reduce congestion and boost performance.

Use a WiFi Extender or Mesh Network

Sometimes, boosting the signal requires adding hardware. Two effective options are:

WiFi Extenders: a WiFi extender, also known as a repeater, amplifies your router’s signal and rebroadcasts it to hard-to-reach areas. Extenders are relatively affordable and easy to set up, but they may slightly reduce speed since they retransmit the signal.

Mesh Networks: Mesh WiFi systems consist of a main router and several satellite nodes placed around your home. They create a seamless network with better coverage and consistent speeds across large or multi-story houses. Popular systems include Google Nest WiFi, Netgear Orbi, and Amazon eero.

For larger homes or properties with dead zones, mesh systems provide the best WiFi enhancement.

Reduce Interference from Other Devices

WiFi operates on the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, which can be affected by other electronics. Devices like baby monitors, cordless phones, microwave ovens, and Bluetooth gadgets can interfere with WiFi signals, especially on the 2.4 GHz band.

Switching to the 5 GHz band can reduce interference, offering faster speeds and less congestion. However, 5 GHz has a shorter range than 2.4 GHz, so it’s best used in closer proximity to the router.

Access your router’s settings to prioritize the 5 GHz network or separate the two bands into distinct SSIDs (network names) for better control.

Secure Your Network to Prevent Bandwidth Theft

An unsecured or poorly secured WiFi network can allow neighbors or strangers to connect and use your bandwidth, leading to slower speeds.

To protect your network:

Use a strong, unique password with WPA3 or WPA2 encryption.
Regularly check connected devices through your router’s admin panel.
Disable WPS (WiFi Protected Setup) for better security.

Securing your WiFi ensures only authorized devices consume your internet resources, helping maintain optimal speed.

Optimize Router Settings for Better Performance

Small changes in your router’s settings can make a big difference. Some optimization tips include:

Change the WiFi channel: routers default to certain channels, which may become crowded. Switching to a less congested channel can improve performance.
Enable Quality of Service (QoS): QoS settings allow you to prioritize traffic, giving streaming, gaming, or work-related activities more bandwidth over background downloads or updates.
Adjust transmission power: some routers allow you to adjust signal strength. Increasing transmission power can enhance coverage, especially in larger homes.

Consult your router’s manual or online support page to access and modify these settings.

Replace Old Cables and Modems

Sometimes, the issue isn’t the WiFi itself but the equipment feeding it. Old Ethernet cables (below Cat5e standards) or outdated modems can bottleneck your internet speed. Using modern Cat6 or Cat7 Ethernet cables and a compatible, up-to-date modem ensures you’re getting the full speed from your ISP.

Consider a Wired Connection for Stationary Devices

While improving WiFi is important, wired Ethernet connections are still superior for stability and speed. If possible, connect stationary devices like smart TVs, gaming consoles, or desktop PCs directly to the router using Ethernet cables. This frees up wireless bandwidth for mobile devices and improves the experience for everyone on the network.

Test Your Internet Speed Regularly

Regularly testing your internet speed helps you identify if your WiFi optimizations are effective or if there might be an ISP-related issue. Reliable tools include Speedtest by Ookla and Fast.com.

If your test results consistently fall below the speeds promised in your plan, it might be time to negotiate with your ISP or consider switching providers.

When to Contact Your ISP

If you’ve tried all the steps above and your WiFi is still performing poorly, the problem might be external. Contact your ISP to check for network outages, line issues, or better plan options. Some providers also offer professional home network assessments and can recommend custom solutions.

Take Control of Your WiFi Today

Boosting your WiFi signal doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By following simple steps like repositioning your router, updating firmware, upgrading hardware, reducing interference, and optimizing settings, you can significantly improve your home or office internet experience.

The key is to understand what’s affecting your WiFi performance and take proactive measures to address those issues. With a bit of effort, you can enjoy faster speeds, broader coverage, and a more reliable connection for all your online needs.

The Internet of things: what you need to know

May 5, 2025 Por Tiekom

One of the most significant technological revolutions in recent years is the Internet of Things (IoT). This concept goes far beyond smart home gadgets or wearable devices—it represents a new era of connectivity, where everyday objects are enhanced with internet capabilities to collect, exchange, and act on data.

Understanding what the Internet of Things is and how it impacts daily life, businesses, and entire industries is essential in today’s connected world. This article explains the basics of IoT, explores its real-world applications, and highlights the opportunities and challenges it presents.

What Is the Internet of Things (IoT)?

At its core, the Internet of Things refers to a network of physical devices embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies that allow them to connect and exchange data over the internet. These devices can range from household appliances and fitness trackers to industrial machines and smart city infrastructure.

What sets IoT apart is the ability of these objects to communicate with each other, collect meaningful data, and make decisions based on that data, often without human intervention. The ultimate goal is to improve efficiency, reduce human error, and create more intelligent systems across all areas of life.

How Does IoT Work?

IoT devices work by collecting data through sensors, then transmitting that data through the internet to a central system or cloud platform. There, the data is analyzed and can trigger automated actions or generate insights for human users.

A basic IoT setup includes:

A device with sensors and internet connectivity
A network that transmits the data (usually via Wi-Fi, 4G/5G, or Bluetooth)
A data processing platform that analyzes and responds to the data
User interfaces (apps or dashboards) that allow people to view and control the system

For example, a smart thermostat learns your preferences and habits, automatically adjusts temperature settings, and can be controlled remotely from your smartphone—all while using data to improve energy efficiency.

Common Applications of IoT

The use cases for IoT are growing every day, transforming both personal and professional environments. Some of the most common applications include:

Smart Homes:
Devices like smart lights, thermostats, doorbells, and security cameras allow homeowners to automate and remotely manage their home environment. Voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant act as hubs for these connected devices.

the internet of things — Devices like smart lights, thermostats, doorbells.

Healthcare:
IoT plays a crucial role in remote patient monitoring, wearable health trackers, and connected medical devices. These technologies improve patient outcomes and enable proactive healthcare.

Agriculture:
Farmers use IoT solutions to monitor soil conditions, automate irrigation, and track livestock. This precision agriculture approach leads to better crop yields and more sustainable farming practices.

Smart Cities:
Urban areas are becoming more connected through IoT-enabled traffic control systems, smart lighting, waste management, and pollution monitoring, improving quality of life and operational efficiency.

Industrial IoT (IIoT):
Factories and industrial plants use IoT to monitor equipment, predict maintenance needs, and optimize production lines. This results in reduced downtime and lower costs.

Benefits of IoT

There are several reasons why IoT is gaining momentum across industries. Among the key advantages are:

1. Increased Efficiency: by automating tasks and providing real-time data, IoT helps reduce resource waste and improves decision-making.

2. Cost Savings: predictive maintenance, better inventory control, and energy management systems enabled by IoT lead to significant cost reductions over time.

3. Enhanced User Experience: whether in consumer products or business services, IoT enables personalized and seamless interactions that make life more convenient.

4. Improved Safety and Security: connected surveillance systems, environmental monitoring, and alert-based mechanisms help improve safety in homes, cities, and workplaces.

5. Data-Driven Insights: IoT systems generate large volumes of data that can be analyzed to uncover trends, predict outcomes, and inform future strategies.

Challenges of the Internet of Things

Despite its potential, the Internet of Things also presents several challenges and risks that must be addressed:

Security Vulnerabilities

With so many devices connected to the internet, cybersecurity becomes a major concern. Weak encryption or outdated firmware can make IoT systems vulnerable to attacks.

Privacy Issues

IoT devices often collect sensitive data—like health information or behavioral habits—which raises questions about how that data is stored, shared, and used.

Device Compatibility

Different manufacturers use various protocols and standards, making it difficult for devices to communicate with one another in a unified system.

Scalability

Managing and maintaining a large network of connected devices can become complex, especially for businesses operating across multiple locations.

Dependence on Internet Connectivity

Without a stable internet connection, many IoT systems may become less effective or even unusable, limiting their reliability in remote or underdeveloped areas.

The Future of IoT

The Internet of Things is still evolving, and its future is incredibly promising. Innovations in 5G technology, edge computing, and AI integration are expected to push IoT to the next level. Devices will become smarter, more autonomous, and more energy-efficient.

We can expect to see even more advancements in areas like connected vehicles, smart retail, intelligent supply chains, and healthcare robotics. As IoT becomes more embedded in daily life and business operations, its impact will continue to reshape how the world works.

According to estimates from Statista, there will be over 29 billion connected devices globally by 2030. This explosive growth underscores the importance of investing in infrastructure, regulation, and education to ensure safe and effective implementation of IoT.

Why Knowing IoT Matters

The Internet of Things is more than a tech buzzword—it’s a driving force behind digital transformation in every industry. From homes and hospitals to cities and factories, IoT is revolutionizing how we live and work.

By learning what IoT is and how it works, individuals and organizations can better position themselves for success in a connected world. Embracing IoT means embracing a smarter, more efficient, and more data-driven future.

For further exploration of IoT trends and standards, visit resources such as the IoT World Today and IEEE IoT Initiative.

The best way to have Internet in rural areas

April 24, 2025 Por Tiekom

Having reliable internet access is essential in today’s world, whether for work, education, entertainment, or communication. But for many people living in rural or remote areas, connecting to the internet remains a real challenge. Infrastructure limitations, long distances from urban centers, and lower population densities often make it less profitable for traditional ISPs to expand their networks to these regions.

Fortunately, several solutions are available—some already widely used, others emerging quickly thanks to technological advancements. In this post we tlak about the most effective ways to have internet in rural areas, considering performance, availability, and overall user experience.

1. Satellite Internet: A Reach-Anywhere Option

Satellite internet is one of the most popular solutions for remote locations. By connecting via satellites orbiting Earth, users can receive internet access almost anywhere, regardless of terrain or distance from cities.

Advantages

It offers wide coverage, which makes it ideal for regions where wired infrastructure is nonexistent. Installation is relatively simple, and providers have made satellite service accessible across many rural zones. More recently, Starlink by SpaceX has entered the market, providing much faster speeds and significantly lower latency than traditional satellite systems.

Considerations

Satellite internet can suffer from weather-related interference, and it often comes with higher latency and data limits, especially with older systems.

internet in rural areas — makes it ideal for regions where wired infrastructure is nonexistent

2. Fixed Wireless Internet: Speed Without Cables

Fixed wireless internet delivers data from a ground-based tower to a receiver installed on your home. Unlike satellite, the signal travels shorter distances and avoids space-based relay, reducing latency and often providing better speeds.

Advantages

It’s great for areas where line-of-sight connectivity to a local tower is possible. It supports video calls, streaming, and even light gaming with good results.

Considerations

Obstacles like hills, trees, or buildings can block the signal. Availability is also dependent on proximity to a service tower, usually within a 10–20 km range.

3. Mobile Hotspots: A Flexible Alternative

Another option for rural users is mobile internet through 4G or 5G hotspots. By using a SIM card and a compatible device, users can generate a Wi-Fi signal that powers multiple devices at home.

Advantages

This is a portable and convenient option. Setup is quick, and if the mobile signal is strong, users can enjoy decent speeds for streaming, browsing, and remote work. In Tiekom we offer dedicated data plans and devices tailored for rural users.

Considerations

Performance depends heavily on mobile network coverage. In some areas, signal strength may vary significantly. In addition, many data plans come with usage limits or reduced speeds after a certain threshold.

4. DSL or Cable: When Infrastructure Exists

Some rural towns already have DSL or cable lines installed, typically through legacy telephone or television infrastructure. These technologies offer relatively stable connections and can support multiple users at once.

Advantages

DSL and cable provide more consistent performance than wireless options and often come with unlimited data plans. They are suitable for households that stream, browse, and use cloud services regularly.

Considerations

Unfortunately, coverage is limited. Where available, speeds may also be lower than in urban areas, especially during peak hours.

5. Fibre Optic Internet: The Gold Standard (But Still Rare)

In an ideal world, rural communities would be served by fibre optic internet, which offers ultra-fast speeds and unmatched stability. Some areas are beginning to benefit from government-subsidized fibre rollouts, especially in Europe, North America, and Australia.

Advantages

Fibre delivers gigabit-level performance with very low latency and no signal degradation over distance. It’s the best option for remote workers, gamers, and households with high data demands.

Considerations

The biggest downside is limited availability. Installation costs are high, and fibre expansion is a long-term investment that many rural regions are still waiting for.

6. Community Networks and Cooperatives

In places where commercial ISPs haven’t invested, some rural residents have taken matters into their own hands. By forming cooperatives or community-run ISPs, these areas develop local networks using a mix of fixed wireless and fibre connections.

Advantages

This model often leads to more affordable and customized solutions, developed by the community for the community. In many cases, they even offer better support and transparency than major providers.

Considerations

Setting up a community network requires coordination, funding, and technical know-how. It may not be feasible for all regions, but where it works, it provides a highly effective solution.

What’s the Best Option? It Depends on Your Needs

The best way to get internet in rural areas depends on several factors: geographic location, available infrastructure, internet habits, and budget.

For those living in very remote areas, satellite internet—especially newer options like Starlink—may be the only viable path to getting connected. Users who are close to existing infrastructure or cell towers might find fixed wireless or mobile hotspots to be more affordable and lower-latency alternatives. Where possible, DSL or cable lines remain a solid option, and in rare but increasing cases, fibre optic service is beginning to reach rural homes thanks to public-private investments.

The good news is that access is improving. Governments around the world are pushing for better rural connectivity, and technology is making it possible to bridge the digital divide more effectively than ever before.

For those unsure of what’s available in their location, platforms like BroadbandNow in the U.S. or Ofcom’s Broadband Checker in the UK can provide up-to-date availability data. These tools help identify nearby services and compare pricing, speeds, and features.

Rural Internet Is No Longer a Fantasy

Having fast, stable internet in a rural home is no longer a far-fetched idea. Thanks to a variety of technologies—from satellites to mobile networks to fibre—users now have more ways than ever to get connected. While some options still come with trade-offs, the landscape is rapidly improving. With the right solution tailored to your specific needs, even the most remote location can enjoy a reliable and satisfying online experience.

What is Jitter? the problem in network performance

April 14, 2025 Por Tiekom

When people talk about internet performance, they often mention speed, bandwidth, latency or buffering. However, there’s another crucial factor that can significantly affect your online experience—jitter. This term might not be as well-known, but it plays a vital role in how smoothly your internet connection performs, especially during video calls, online gaming, or VoIP communications.

So, what is jitter, how does it impact your network, and why should you care? This post offers a complete explanation, how it works, what causes it, and how you can reduce or eliminate it.

What is Jitter in Networking?

In the context of internet and networking, jitter refers to the variation in the time delay between data packets traveling across a network. Ideally, when data is sent from one point to another—like during a Zoom call or online game—it should arrive at regular intervals. However, due to network congestion, interference, or hardware limitations, these packets can arrive out of order or with inconsistent timing.

This variation in delay is what we call jitter. It’s usually measured in milliseconds (ms) and is a key indicator of the quality and stability of a connection, particularly for real-time services.

Why is Jitter a Problem?

High jitter can severely disrupt your online experience, even if your internet speed is technically fast. This is especially noticeable in applications that rely on continuous, real-time data flow:

VoIP calls (e.g., Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp): you may hear echoes, robotic voices, or dropped words.
Online gaming: actions may be delayed or inconsistent, affecting gameplay accuracy.
Streaming and live broadcasting: you might experience buffering or poor-quality playback.
Video conferencing: lip sync issues or pixelated images can disrupt communication.

In most networks, jitter below 30ms is considered acceptable, while anything above 50ms can lead to noticeable performance issues.

What Causes Jitter?

There are several reasons jitter may occur in a network. Understanding these can help diagnose and solve the problem.

1. Network congestion

When too many users or devices are using the same network at once, data packets compete for bandwidth. This can cause some packets to be delayed, resulting in jitter.

2. Hardware limitations

Older routers, modems, or network switches may not be able to handle high volumes of traffic, especially when multiple high-bandwidth activities (like 4K streaming or gaming) happen simultaneously.

what is jitter — Older routers may no be able to handle high volumes of traffic

3. Wireless interference

Wi-Fi networks are more prone to jitter than wired Ethernet connections. This is due to interference from other wireless devices, walls, or signal overlap with neighboring networks.

4. Routing issues

If the data packets take different paths across the internet, it can lead to delays and inconsistent delivery, especially if one path is slower or more congested.

5. ISP-Related problems

Sometimes, the problem lies outside your home network. Internet service providers (ISPs) may experience issues with their infrastructure, leading to jitter and other network performance problems.

How to Measure Jitter

You can easily measure jitter using online tools or built-in diagnostics in some routers. Recommended tools include:

These platforms typically display ping, jitter, and packet loss, giving you a clear picture of your network quality.

What is an Acceptable Jitter Value?

0–20ms: Excellent – Ideal for gaming, video calls, and streaming.
20–50ms: Acceptable – May cause slight disruptions in real-time applications.
50–100ms: Poor – Noticeable issues with communication and responsiveness.
100ms and above: Unacceptable – Severe disruption for most real-time uses.

How to Reduce Jitter

Reducing jitter often requires a combination of network upgrades, smart configuration, and better internet practices. Here are some proven methods:

1. Use a wired ethernet connection

Wi-Fi is convenient, but it’s also less stable. A wired connection provides a consistent data flow, reducing both jitter and latency.

2. Upgrade your router or modem

Modern routers are designed to handle multiple devices and high-speed connections efficiently. Look for models with Quality of Service (QoS) settings, which prioritize real-time traffic like VoIP and gaming.

3. Limit network traffic

Too many devices streaming or downloading simultaneously can create congestion and packet delay. Schedule large downloads or use bandwidth-limiting tools to free up bandwidth for real-time apps.

4. Optimize QoS settings

If your router supports Quality of Service, enable it to prioritize certain types of traffic—such as Zoom, Teams, or online games—over background downloads and updates.

5. Contact your ISP

If you’re consistently experiencing jitter despite a strong home setup, the issue might be with your provider. Ask if they offer low-latency services or check whether your area is experiencing network congestion.

6. Upgrade your internet plan

Low-tier internet plans may not provide the bandwidth or quality needed for jitter-sensitive activities. Consider switching to fiber optic internet, which offers better reliability and lower latency.

Jitter vs Latency: What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to confuse jitter with latency, but they measure different things:

Latency is the total time it takes for a data packet to travel from source to destination.
Jitter is the variation in time between data packets arriving.

You can have low latency but high jitter, which still leads to an unstable connection. Both metrics are important, especially for time-sensitive applications.

Why Jitter Matters More Than You Think

While it may not be as widely discussed as download speed or latency, jitter is one of the most important metrics for evaluating internet quality. It directly affects your ability to use real-time apps smoothly, from virtual meetings to competitive gaming.

By understanding what jitter is, how it works, and how to reduce it, users can take control of their network performance and create a more stable and satisfying online experience. Whether you’re a remote worker, a gamer, or someone who just wants smooth video calls, managing jitter is key to getting the most out of your internet connection.