Mobile phone reception and mobile broadband performance vary depending on network coverage. You can check the coverage of your subscription from your telecoms operator's coverage map. If the coverage is not sufficient, you can improve it with antennas. The functionality of a mobile subscription can even vary greatly at the same address.
The GSM mobile network covers nearly all of Finland and the 3G mobile network has a very extensive coverage area too. The coverage area of 4G networks is constantly expanding, starting with densely populated areas.
Factors affecting coverage
Variance and gaps in coverage relate to the structure of mobile networks. Coverage may vary in one and the same place depending on the time of day or the season, even during a phone call or an internet connection session.
Coverage depends on the user's location in relation to the nearest base station. Typically, the signal between a base station and a terminal device is strong near the base station. As the distance increases, the signal becomes weaker. In addition to distance, the signal is made weaker by buildings, trees and plants between the base station and the terminal device and even certain weather conditions in the area. If the user moves during a connection, the network coverage also changes and affects the connection.
The current dense and energy-efficient new and renovation construction has been found to cause coverage problems. At worst, the cell phone doesn’t work indoors at all. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the indoor coverage already when planning a construction project.
Coverage maps
Mobile network coverage varies depending on the user's location. Coverage depends on the location of and distances between base stations in a given area. You can check your coverage from your telecoms operator's coverage map.
DNA, Coverage map (External link) (in finnish)
Elisa, Coverage map (External link) (in finnish)
Telia, Coverage and speed map (External link) (in finnish)
Coverage may be poor also in the areas marked on the coverage maps if the signal between the terminal device and the base station is weak. A signal may be weakened by, for example, buildings, trees, plants and even weather conditions.
Operators are not obliged to provide a nationwide service area but we still recommend you to inform them of any coverage problems.
Maximising coverage
Having problems with your telephone or broadband connection? Find out how to solve problems with telephone and broadband connections .