Safelink Wireless is a name you’ve probably heard before if you’re not new to Lifeline Assistance. Safelink is a well-known and Lifeline-focused carrier. This means it focuses on providing Lifeline users with free monthly plans and even free smartphones from the government. Today’s article, however, will concentrate on what network does Safelink Wireless use? We did a lot of research to ensure you had all the information you needed.
SafeLink Wireless is a TracFone Wireless subsidiary, while America Movil owned the company. In a deal worth up to $6.9 billion and including 20 million users, Verizon acquired Tracfone from Mexican firm American Movil in 2021. Notably, TracFone is a global leader in the no-contract wireless communications business. The SafeLink subsidiary, on the other hand, is associated with a similar business line.
We decided to focus today’s article on this subject because we’ve noticed that many individuals are interested in Safelink’s network. We’ll go through everything in detail in the parts that follow. You’ll learn about Safelink’s network, how good their coverage is, how reliable Safelink services are, and how to improve cell phone reception on the network, among other things. Are you ready to learn everything about the carrier’s network? Let’s get started!
What network does Safelink Wireless use to offer its services
The cellular networks and towers used by all American MVNOs are either Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile. While most prepaid MVNOs use only one of the ‘big three’ carriers’ networks, TracFone (Safelink) is one of the few prepaid MVNOs that has agreements with all three major carriers, and hence operates on all three — Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. One of Safelink’s key advantages and selling factors is that it works with all of the major networks.
The crucial thing to remember is that each Safelink phone is tuned to a specific network and can only connect to one of those networks. Surprisingly, it should be a network where they don’t have to worry about how to improve cell signals at home, at work, or anywhere else. The network to which a user has access is determined by where they reside, as different networks cover different areas of the country and the device itself. If a customer brings their phone to Safelink, the carrier from which it originates will determine the customer’s network.
If you were previously a T-Mobile client with one of their handsets, switching to Safelink will allow you to keep your phone, phone number, and network. T-Mobile devices employ GSM technology and are sometimes network-locked. It will only work on T-Mobile’s network as a result. You’ll be able to stay on the network if you switch to Safelink.
Is Safelink Wireless network? How reliable
Since Safelink has access to all three of America’s largest and most reliable networks, they can provide their customers with the most appropriate network for their needs. Safelink has an excellent integrated network and coverage. Since each consumer only has access to one of the three major networks, we must assess each separately to verify their reliability.
i) Verizon
Verizon is the most extensively spread network in the United States regarding the service area. It offers more than 70% 4G coverage and serves even the most rural parts of the country with network connectivity. Verizon’s network may be the best option if you reside in a rural area. However, if you experience patchy coverage, you can purchase the best cell phone for rural areas to improve the coverage.
ii) AT&T
AT&T has the country’s second-largest 4G coverage area. It has a 4G network that covers 68% of the country.
iii) T-Mobile
Since the merger of Sprint and T-Mobile in 2020, the new T-Mobile has provided 62 percent 4G LTE coverage to 99 percent of the population. They also have the best 5G coverage in the United States.
Safelink coverage quality is established by the consumer’s network, which is decided by their device and living region. Because the three major carriers’ coverage is widely scattered around the country, it’s crucial to determine which network has excellent coverage in your area before committing to one. A portable cell phone signal booster for hiking is recommended because most hiking grounds will have inconsistent coverage from all three carriers.
What is the Safelink Wireless network coverage area
Safelink Wireless can theoretically cover the entire country because it has access to all major networks and their towers (roughly over 99 percent of the entire population). However, because each consumer has access to only one of the three major networks, their coverage area is identical to the single carrier they use. You can find the coverage maps of the three major carriers from the links below:
- Verizon: Verizon coverage map
- AT&T: AT&T wireless coverage
- T-Mobile: T-Mobile coverage map
Safelink’s service plans are compatible with 4G LTE and 5G networks and provide nationwide coverage. A 5G-capable device is required for nationwide 5G access. If you’re new to Safelink, input your ZIP code to see which network in your area offers the highest coverage. If you are an existing subscriber, you can check the coverage area by entering your Safelink MEI or phone number.
Safelink Wireless will do everything possible to connect each customer to the network that offers the best coverage in their location and is compatible with their phone. As a result, when it comes to coverage, Safelink has you covered!
What Other MVNOs Use the Same Network as Safelink Wireless
TracFone (Safelink) is one of the few MVNOs that has access to all three main cellular networks and towers — Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Other MVNOs that work across all three main networks are:
- Straight Talk
- Net10
- Red Pocket
How can you figure out which big carrier’s network you’re on
When going on a road trip, it’s sometimes helpful to know which network your phone utilizes because it can help you set reasonable coverage expectations. Furthermore, suppose you decide to relocate to another area or state. In that case, you may need to examine your current network’s coverage in the new location and see if another carrier has superior service. If you already own a Safelink device and want to know which network it connects to, there are a few options:
i) Use an online checkup tool
Search for ‘phone carrier lookup by the number’ or anything similar in your browser. It will provide you with a variety of online search options and tools. With these tools, you can search for your carrier using your phone number, SIM card number, or IMEI number.
ii) Take a cue from your previous carrier
You may reasonably assume that if you brought your phone to Safelink and your primary carrier was one of the big three, Safelink will allow you to stay on the same network.
What are the limitations of the Safelink Wireless network
Safelink has the best coverage because it runs on all three networks. However, you should be aware of some limitations to Safelink’s coverage and network.
- Safelink is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that relies on other carriers’ networks. As a result, they have little sway over issues and can’t guarantee network quality or coverage accuracy.
- Because Safelink does not own any of its towers, the network owners may have better coverage, significantly faster data speeds, and better reception, especially during peak hours.
- Because even the three primary and most reliable networks have unevenly placed towers, none of them can guarantee 100% coverage. As a result, you may have poor or no reception when traveling to less crowded locations. You won’t be able to make calls, send text messages, or utilize any of the phone’s other capabilities in this instance.
How to Improve Safelink Wireless cell phone reception
There are various simple and convenient ways to boost your cell phone coverage. For starters, you can relocate to a region with proven coverage. However, as this one is a little extreme to boost cell signals at home for free, let’s look at other options.
- Update the software on your phone.
- Turn off any services or apps that aren’t in use.
- Reset your network settings if necessary.
- Re-select the network operator manually.
- Move outside, to a higher elevation, or near a window. Make sure your window is open.
- Use a variety of construction materials, preferably those that block less signal.
- If you have access to a Wi-Fi network, use Wi-Fi calling. You’ll have to improve your Wi-Fi signal. Using an internet booster is one option. As a result, understanding how an internet booster works is critical.
Bottom line
Safelink Wireless is one of the few MVNOs with access to all three leading carriers’ networks. That means the MVNO has extensive coverage across the United States. Customers of Safelink, on the other hand, will only be able to use one carrier’s network depending on their location and device. If your Safelink network coverage is spotty, you can improve your coverage by purchasing a signal booster.
