With the rapid advancement of technology, the ways in which we communicate have expanded and evolved, offering us a multitude of options to stay connected no matter where we are. Staying in touch with family, friends and colleagues has never been easier. From voice calls and text messages to video chats, social media and instant messaging apps, the variety of communication methods available allows us to maintain relationships and collaborate in ways that were once unimaginable.
Two popular methods for making voice calls are dedicated mobile networks and WiFi calling. While both have their advantages, a dedicated mobile network provides a more reliable and versatile experience.
In this blog, we dive into the reasons why dedicated mobile networks are the superior choice for voice calls.
- Reliable and consistent coverage
Mobile networks are known for their extensive coverage, reaching wide areas such as remote rural and suburban locations, city streets, busy venues and office buildings. Mobile networks ensure continuous and robust signal strength, meaning you can make and receive calls anywhere without worrying about connectivity issues. In some busy venues and office buildings a dedicated mobile network is implemented to ensure reliable connectivity. In contrast, WiFi calling relies entirely on the availability and quality of a WiFi signal. This dependence can be a significant drawback in areas with poor WiFi coverage, particularly when bandwidth is insufficient to support multiple connected users. If the WiFi signal is weak or unstable, call quality can deteriorate, leading to dropped calls or poor audio quality.
- Seamless mobility and handoff
The architecture of mobile networks is designed to support robust and seamless mobility. As a mobile device moves from one location to another, it automatically connects to the best mobile infrastructure. This process, known as “handoff”, is smooth and seamless, ensuring an uninterrupted connection whether the user is on a call or using other mobile services. In contrast, WiFi calling can be challenging when moving between different WiFi networks and even within the same network. Transitioning from a public hotspot to an office network can disrupt the call, leading to interruptions. This lack of seamless mobility can be a significant disadvantage, especially during important business calls or when communicating with family in emergencies. This lack of consistency impacts productivity and efficiency.
- Increased data privacy and security
Dedicated mobile networks offer an inherent higher level of security compared to WiFi networks, thanks to the encryption and protective measures implemented to reduce the risk of hacking. These features make it more challenging for unauthorized individuals to intercept calls or access sensitive information. On the other hand, logging into WiFi networks, particularly unsecured or public networks, carries significant risks that can jeopardize your data and privacy. Even connecting to a secure office WiFi for calls can present interception risks. Additionally, accessing WiFi networks often involves logging in or providing some form of identification, which can be exploited for tracking and surveillance purposes.
- Instant access to emergency services
In emergency situations, every second counts. Mobile networks provide reliable access to emergency services, which can be a lifesaver in critical situations. When you dial emergency numbers, your call is routed through the dedicated mobile network, allowing emergency responders to pinpoint your location accurately. WiFi calling does not always provide the same level of access to emergency services. Depending on the configuration and the location, emergency calls made over WiFi may not transmit your location accurately, potentially delaying the response time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while WiFi calling can be a useful backup for staying connected in areas with weak cellular signal but strong WiFi, a dedicated mobile network always offers significant advantages. From reliability and call quality to seamless mobility and enhanced security, mobile networks provide the comfort and security we all expect from advanced connectivity.
