Choppy calls or slow internet? Most issues can be resolved at home – watch Traficom’s new guidance videos

Mobile phone and broadband coverage issues can often be resolved with simple measures, without major investments. The Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom’s new videos bring together key practical tips and help identify possible causes of problems and how to fix them.

“Coverage is affected by many factors, such as building structures, distance from the base station and the devices being used. Often, even small changes can significantly improve connection quality,” says Mari Österberg, Head of Unit at Traficom.

Device placement and settings make a big difference

One of the most important ways to improve coverage at home is correct device placement. The performance of a phone or mobile router can vary considerably in different parts of the home.

Good reception is often found near a window, while thick walls and energy-efficient windows may weaken the signal. Up-to-date software and phone settings, such as enabling VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling, can also improve connection performance.

For mobile broadband, the router’s location and its orientation relative to the base station are key factors. Using coverage maps can help identify the best placement for the device.

Expand your Wi-Fi network coverage

Home network performance can also be improved by extending Wi-Fi coverage. For example, mesh systems can help provide a more consistent connection across different rooms.

For calls, Wi-Fi calling offers an alternative when mobile network coverage is poor. This requires a functioning home network.

An external antenna can solve the most difficult issues

If basic measures are not sufficient, coverage can be improved with more advanced solutions. An external antenna or outdoor router can bring significant improvements, particularly in areas where the mobile network signal is weak.

With an external antenna, connection speeds may even increase significantly, or connectivity may become possible in spaces where it previously did not work.

“Consumers should also consider comparing coverage between different operators if needed, as the differences can be significant depending on the area,” Österberg emphasises.

Further information, guidance and contact details are also available on your operator’s website:

• DNA
• Elisa
• Telia

Towards smoother everyday life and reliable connections

“Our aim at Traficom is to ensure that connections work as reliably as possible in everyday life, as functioning communications connections are a key part of work, accessing services and staying in touch,” says Director Lasse Laine. “We work closely with operators to find solutions to coverage challenges,” Laine adds.

If your operator is unable to resolve the issue, you can report it to Traficom using the coverage issue reporting form.

Watch the videos and put the tips into practice at home!

How to improve mobile phone reception indoors – video [in Finnish]

How to improve your mobile broadband performance – video [in Finnish]

Measure your connection speed with Bittimittari

With Bittimittari, you can test the speed of your internet connection and verify whether the statutory minimum broadband speed (5 Mbps) is met. In addition to measurement results, Bittimittari provides an assessment of how well the measured internet connection meets the user's needs. Traficom makes use of the measurement results in its supervisory and monitoring work.

You can download the Bittimittari.fi mobile application from the app store (for iOS and Android devices). Bittimittari is also available through the most common web browsers.