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Why isn't my internet working abroad?

Added: 16.01.2024, Updated: 07.02.2024,

Technology Internet troubleshooting

Traveling abroad can be fascinating, but also full of surprises - unfortunately, including unpleasant ones. This is especially true when using mobile Internet. One of the worst possible situations during an overseas trip is when you can't connect to the network when you really need it. For example - you need to order transportation via a mobile app, check an address on a map or contact your loved ones via instant messenger.

Why then doesn't our Internet work abroad? In this article we will discuss potential problems related to a number of reasons responsible for problems with access to the network outside Poland - including roaming, coverage or at least premium services. At the same time, we will present ways to solve them.

1. Roaming - a key element of Internet access abroad

Roaming is a service that allows you to use a mobile network in a country other than the one where you have a subscription. However, this service does not always automatically on the phone, which can lead to problems with Internet access. Before traveling, it is a good idea to contact your carrier to check that roaming is activated and configured correctly.

Solution: Check roaming settings before traveling

Phones often have roaming disabled by default as a form of protection against unexpected charges for additional services on the phone. Before going abroad, make sure that roaming is activated. You can check this very easily in your phone's settings.

Also see if your carrier offers special roaming packages that can minimize the cost of using the Internet in a foreign country. However, we recommend this only for travel to countries within the European Union. In the case of exotic and distant destinations (such as China or the USA) - any package offers from mobile operators will not be beneficial in terms of data package and, above all, price.

2. Blocking premium services - accidental access restrictions

Premium service blocking is a security feature that can be activated on a subscription account to prevent unauthorized use of expensive services. Often it is a block on making calls or sending SMS messages to foreign numbers. However, this can sometimes lead to problems accessing certain functions on the phone - this includes Internet access outside Poland. This blocking can, for example, prevent SMS messages with two-step authentication from being sent to basic online services.

Solution: Contact the operator

If you're having trouble accessing certain services or content, check whether a premium service blocker was accidentally activated on your account. If in doubt, contact your carrier's customer service for help in resolving the problem. This blockade can be quickly removed and you should turn off and restart your phone within about 30 minutes. After that, Internet access outside of Poland should already be possible.

3. Coverage - a key element of a stable connection

Mobile internet hotspot - XOXO WiFi Lack of coverage is one of the most common causes of Internet access problems, both at home and abroad. In some places, coverage may be poor or may not even be there at all. In many countries, the telecommunications infrastructure can be much worse than that in Poland, to the point that throughout a foreign country, network access is available at most in the 3G band - which guarantees much slower Internet access than 4G/LTE or 5G.

Solution: check the coverage level on your phone

If you are having trouble accessing the Internet, check the coverage level on your phone. If there is no or poor coverage, try changing your location or wait until the signal is re-established.

4. Disabled mobile Internet service - accidental settings

Sometimes the problem with Internet access can be due to accidental disabling of mobile Internet service in the phone's settings. In this case, even if there is the presence of coverage (and it is of good quality), the phone will not be able to connect to the mobile data network.

Solution: check the Internet settings on your phone

Check the Internet settings on your phone. Make sure your mobile Internet service is enabled. You'll usually find this very easily in the basic network or connection settings on both iOS and Android-based devices.

Apply crisis solutions to overseas Internet access problem

Internet access problems abroad can be due to a variety of factors, such as lack of coverage, errors in roaming settings or accidentally turning off the service on your phone. It is important to contact your carrier before traveling, check your mobile device settings and be aware of local coverage conditions. By solving these potential problems, you can enjoy stable and efficient mobile Internet access, no matter where you are in the world.