Can WiFi Functioning Remain a Reality?

Can WiFi Functioning Remain a Reality?

Rethinking Train WiFi: Strategies for Boosting Connectivity in Europe

Recently boarding a European high-speed train, I conquered a longstanding goal: I successfully connected to the WiFi. Brief moments of blissful browsing and emailing ensued, though the connection abruptly disappeared.As it stands, train WiFi across Europe is consistently disappointing. Train companies promise the allure of on-board connectivity but leave passengers frustration-stricken, as they waste time endlessly refreshing their browsers, expecting a connection that never materializes.

So, what's missing? Federico Protto, head of the Italian operations of Cellnex, Europe's largest mobile tower operator, highlights three primary challenges: high-speed trains travel at over 200mph, carry high passenger numbers demanding significant bandwidth, and the metal carriages act as Faraday cages, hindering mobile signal penetration. Moreover, mobile operators have primarily focused on urban areas, leaving rural train routes without nearby antennas.

Addressing these issues requires expanding the amount of mobile towers along railways. Cellnex estimates that good connectivity on high-speed trains would necessitate a tower for every kilometer of railway track, taking into account increased bandwidth demand from content-hungry passengers. For comparison, SNCF, France's national train operator, claims its WiFi relies on one tower every 3km, potentially explaining my recent struggles between Paris and Lyon.

Implementing better network coverage entails solutions such as:1. A single mobile operator expanding all towers and converting them to WiFi via an on-train antenna.2. All mobile operators building out their 4G and 5G networks along rail lines, with passengers primarily utilizing these networks, instead of any on-board WiFi.

Many Japanese Shinkansen bullet trains enjoy strong 5G coverage due to its prevalence. However, Icomera UK, a provider of train WiFi, points out that 4G and 5G alone may struggle to cope with the Faraday cage effect, leading countries like Sweden and Germany to invest in additional on-board WiFi as well.

The question remains: who should shoulder the financial burden for improving train connectivity? The London Underground has funded its 4G and 5G expansion indirectly through mobile operators. However, European operators might resist funding the construction of towers, connected by fiber optic cables, throughout the entire rail network, given the immense size of railways like Italy's, spanning over 10,000 miles.

A case can be made for train operators to contribute financially. Improved train WiFi could reinvigorate long-distance train travel, making it appealing for professionals to opt for train journeys instead of traditional commuting methods.This would allow passengers to join Teams meetings or client calls, rather than intermittently existing via their phones. Better connectivity has the potential to transform train commutes into productive, work-friendly environments, with the availability of Zoom calls and uninterrupted video streaming.

In Britain, in 2023, there was a push towards axing free WiFi on trains to cut costs. However, the emphasis has since shifted towards increased connectivity. Providing enhanced connectivity across Britain's trains is estimated to cost roughly £200mn by Icomera UK.

As improvements in train WiFi technology materialize, let's be mindful of the positives, but also prepare for the potential negatives. Increased connectivity leaves room for self-important passengers to indulge in endless Zoom calls and video streaming. Perhaps I'll soon find myself complaining about the WiFi being too reliable instead of too unreliable.

1. To reap the benefits of a productive train commute, investment in data-and-cloud-computing technologies might be necessary for train operators, allowing passengers to partake in corporate activities such as Teams meetings or streaming videos, thus enhancing lifestyle choices and attracting business travelers.
2. As European train companies endeavor to improve WiFi connectivity, partnerships with technology companies specializing in data-and-cloud-computing and travel could be pivotal, enabling seamless integration of 4G, 5G, and on-board WiFi networks for a reliable and enjoyable passenger experience.
3. Enhanced WiFi connectivity on trains could have far-reaching effects on the tourism industry, enticing travelers to embark on extended journeys while maintaining their lifestyle habits and work schedules, elevating the overall travel experience and expanding the scope of entertainment and business opportunities.

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