Questions and Answers

01Why is the 2G network being shut down?

All technology eventually becomes outdated and must be replaced with new, modern technology. The shutdown of the 2G network is part of the ongoing modernization of mobile networks, where 2G frequencies are being replaced by 4G or 5G. These newer networks offer better coverage, capacity, and efficiency than 2G, and are better suited to meet future needs for individuals, businesses, and the public sector. In addition, 4G and 5G networks are more secure and robust.

02When will the 2G network be shut down?

Telia will start shutting down its 2G network in August 2025, and Telenor plans to shut down its 2G network after December 31, 2027. See each operator’s website for more information: Telia Privat | Telenor Privat | Telia Bedrift | Telenor Bedrift

03When will the 2G network be shut down where I live?

Telia will begin shutting down its 2G network in August 2025, and Telenor will shut down its network after December 31, 2027. All affected customers will be notified in advance. See each operator’s website for more information: Telia Privat | Telenor Privat | Telia Bedrift | Telenor Bedrift

04How will this affect me?

When the 2G network is shut down, alarm systems, mobile phones, elevator phones, safety alarms, and other connected devices that only work via 2G will stop functioning. As a private individual, business, municipality, organization, or supplier, you must check your equipment now and replace it with devices that support 4G or 5G.For more information on how to practically proceed, visit your operator: Telia Privat | Telenor Privat | Telia Bedrift | Telenor Bedrift

05What does the 2G shutdown mean for emergency systems in cars (eCall)?

When the 2G network is shut down, the current eCall system, which is based on 2G, will stop working. It is important to contact your car dealer if you have questions about this. Starting in 2026, EU regulations require that new cars sold must have a call system that supports 4G and 5G. At the same time, there are other technological solutions today that can automatically notify emergency services in case of a car accident, such as Apple’s solution on iPhone 14 or newer models.

06Does the 3G network still work?

The 3G network has already been phased out in Norway. Both Telenor and Telia completed the shutdown of their 3G networks in 2021.

07How is the coverage affected by the blackout?

As mobile operators shut down the 2G network, they are expanding and increasing the capacity of both 4G and 5G, which will eventually lead to better mobile coverage than before.

082G/3G signals reach further than 4G/5G?

No, it doesn't. The main determinant of how far mobile signals reach is the frequency bands used. Low frequency bands reach further while high frequency bands enable higher data rates. Mobile operators therefore use a mix of frequency bands to provide the best possible overall coverage and capacity. In terms of low frequency bands, the same bands previously used for 2G/3G will be used for 4G/5G after the shift. In addition, 5G will use an even lower frequency band (700 band) previously used for TV services. The signals from 4G/5G will therefore reach as far or further compared to the old networks.

09How will systems, equipment and machines connected by 2G and 3G be affected when the networks are shut down?

Most connected M2M services, machine-to-machine services, can use both 2G and 3G, but before the 2G network goes down, they will need to be upgraded or replaced with devices capable of 4G, 5G or other modern technologies. Contact a service provider/operator to find out about available replacement solutions.

10How do I know if my phone works with 4G or 5G?

Most people have a mobile phone that supports 4G and, increasingly, 5G. You can check whether your phone supports the new technologies by going into your phone's settings and checking the options under 'Mobile networks' or 'Data communications'. If you find a 4G/5G voice and data option, you should select it. If there is no 4G option, your phone is too old and you should replace it well before the networks close.. If you are unsure, contact the manufacturer or retailer of the phone.

11How do I know if my connected electronics rely on 2G/3G?

The 2G network is not only used for calling and surfing but also for connecting electronics in your home, summer house, car, boat, etc. It can be quite complicated to see if your connected electronics are dependent on the old networks that are to be shut down. If in doubt, contact your service provider or retailer of the product to discuss the need for an upgrade or replacement.

12How do I know if my broadband equipment supports 4G/5G?

If you still have the manual, you can start by consulting it or searching online for your model. Look for 4G, LTE or equivalent in the description.If you cannot find the information, contact the manufacturer or retailer.

13How do I know if my phone can handle voice calls via 4G (VoLTE)?

The vast majority of 4G phones support mobile voice calls over 4G, also known as VoLTE. However, if you know your phone is an older model, you should check this regardless of whether you can browse over 4G. Go into your phone's settings and check the options under "Connections" and/or Mobile networks. If you find options for VoLTE or LTE calls, your phone supports this. If these possible settings are missing, your phone is probably too old and you should replace it well before 2G/3G networks are phased out. If you are unsure, contact the manufacturer or retailer of your phone.

14Will SMS work even when GSM (2G) is switched off?

Yes, SMS is a service that is independent of the generation of mobile technology you use and works in both 4G and 5G. However, older equipment for so-called SMS control rarely supports 4G or 5G, so if you have such equipment, you should check it.

15I have an emergency phone or alarm - how does this affect me?

Safety phones and alarms are generally managed through municipalities. Contact your municipality about their plans to modernize safety phones and alarms.

16Will my older equipment work abroad?

As the 2G network is being shut down in many countries, you may not be able to make calls or use data services in other countries.

17What are the decommissioning plans in the rest of the world?

The shutdown of 2G networks is underway and is planned in several places around the world. 3G has already been phased out in Norway but is still used to some extent in other countries, although it is also considered old technology. Several mobile operators in Europe have already shut down their 2G networks. In many of these countries, all operators plan to shut down the country's 2G and 3G networks, similar to Norway. Australia has already shut down its 2G and 3G networks. In the United States, there is only one network remaining with old technology. This network is being decommissioned and will be shut down in the spring of 2025.

18Can operators close networks? 

Yes, they can. Operators who own 3G and 2G networks may make changes to as long as they comply with the terms of their frequency licenses, which are determined by The Norwegian Communications Authority (Nkom). The conditions are technology neutral and therefore there is no requirement to provide a specific technology such as 2G.

19Where can I get more information?

Both Telia and Telenor have information on the 2G shutdown. Read more on their websites:

Please also read the information from the authorities: https://nkom.no/fysiske-nett-og-infrastruktur/informasjon-om-slukking-av-2g-i-2025

20Who is behind www.byttnettnå.no

Byttnett.no is part of an information campaign run by Telia og Telenor. The purpose of the campaign is to raise awareness and knowledge of the ongoing transition from the old 2G network to more modern networks such as 4G and 5G.By getting as many people as possible to act in good time, we can avoid situations where important connected functions in society do not work or people cannot make calls. Good planning also means that more people can use the transition and the potential of the new networks to take the next step in the digitalization of their business.