EE Boosts City of London Mobile Connectivity with Advanced Small Cell Deployment
The City of London, a global hub for finance and innovation, is receiving a notable upgrade to its mobile infrastructure thanks to a strategic deployment by EE. This initiative, leveraging cutting-edge small cell technology and collaborative partnerships, aims to deliver enhanced connectivity for residents, businesses, and the millions of visitors who frequent the Square Mile.
EE’s approach isn’t random. they utilize refined network analytics to pinpoint areas experiencing the greatest demand and potential for advancement. This data-driven strategy ensures resources are deployed where they’ll have the biggest impact, reducing congestion and maximizing performance.
What are Small Cells and Why Do They Matter?
Small cells are low-power radio access nodes that supplement customary cell towers. They’re particularly effective in dense urban environments like the City of London, where high foot traffic and building density can strain network capacity. by strategically placing these cells at street level, EE is adding crucial capacity to areas surrounding iconic landmarks like St Paul’s Cathedral, the Old Bailey, Guildhall, and along Fleet Street.A Unique Spectrum Combination for Superior Performance
EE distinguishes itself in the european market by uniquely combining licensed 1800MHz and 2600MHz spectrum with unlicensed 5GHz spectrum in its 4G small cells. This innovative approach delivers extraordinary capacity and speeds, with customers potentially experiencing up to 300Mbps on 4G and 600Mbps on 5G. 5G cells in Croydon are configured with licensed 1800MHz for 4G and 3.5GHz for 5G, further optimizing performance.
Collaboration is Key: Freshwave and Network Design
This deployment isn’t a solo effort. EE is working closely with infrastructure provider Freshwave,whose design is notable for its future-proof versatility. Freshwave’s network is built to accommodate all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) on both 4G and 5G from the outset, eliminating the need for costly and disruptive infrastructure adjustments down the line. To date, Freshwave has deployed 35 sites for EE, with a further 34 currently in build, and has already delivered indoor connectivity across over 5,000,000 sq ft of commercial space.
Real-World Impact: Data Consumption and User Experience
The benefits are already being realized. EE reports an average of 125TB of data downloaded per week across its Freshwave-deployed London sites. This demonstrates the significant demand for mobile data in the City and the effectiveness of the new infrastructure in meeting that need. the result is a smoother, more reliable mobile experience for everyone.
Looking ahead: A Future-Ready City
The City of London Corporation recognizes the importance of robust digital infrastructure. Tom Sleigh, Chairman of the Planning and Transportation Committee, emphasized that “world-class digital infrastructure is vital to maintaining [the City’s] position and increasing the city’s appeal.”
James Hope, Director of Mobile Radio Access Networks at EE, echoed this sentiment, stating, “These additional sites will further boost performance and resilience…with robust mobile connectivity being key to supporting the City’s digital future.”
This ongoing investment in mobile connectivity isn’t just about faster download speeds; it’s about ensuring the City of London remains a leading global centre for commerce, culture, and innovation in an increasingly connected world. The collaborative approach between EE, Freshwave, and the City of London Corporation is setting a benchmark for future infrastructure deployments, prioritizing seamless connectivity and future-proofing the network for years to come.
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