At Signal Solutions, we specialise in improving mobile connectivity across the UK and Europe, and we know first-hand that seeing full signal on your phone doesn’t always mean reliable performance.
You see three or four bars on your phone, so you assume everything should work fine… Only to find that calls keep dropping, messages won’t send, and data crawls at a snail’s pace. But here’s the thing: those bars don’t always tell the full story. So, what do they actually mean? And more importantly, what can you do if your signal isn’t up to scratch?
What Do Signal Bars Represent?
Those bars on your screen represent your phone’s connection to the nearest cell tower, but having full signal doesn’t always mean a high-quality connection. While more bars generally indicate a stronger signal, factors like network congestion, your device model, and even your location can impact performance.
Here’s why the bars aren’t always as straightforward as they seem:
- Different devices, different readings – An iPhone with three bars might have the same signal strength as a Samsung with two. Each manufacturer uses different algorithms to display bars, so the experience isn’t universal.
- Network interpretation – Mobile operators also have their own way of translating signal strength into bars. What counts as four bars on one network might be three bars on another.
- Congestion matters – Even with full bars, if the network is overloaded (think rush hour in a city centre), you might experience slow speeds or call drops.
The Technical Side: Understanding dBm (Decibel-Milliwatts)
If you want a more accurate measure of full signal strength, forget the bars and look at dBm. Mobile signal is measured in decibel-milliwatts (dBm), with readings typically ranging between -50 dBm (excellent signal) and -110 dBm (barely usable).
- -50 to -70 dBm – Strong signal, great for calls and data.
- -70 to -90 dBm – Moderate signal, can still support calls and data, but might struggle in busy areas.
- Below -90 dBm – Weak signal, prone to call drops and slow data speeds.
Most phones let you check your dBm reading through hidden settings – so if you’re ever unsure, it’s worth taking a look.
The Shift from 3G to 4G and 5G
The UK’s mobile networks are evolving, with 3G being phased out to make way for better 4G and 5G services. Here’s what this means:
- 3G is disappearing – Major networks like EE and Vodafone are shutting down their 3G services, meaning older phones and devices that rely on 3G will lose connectivity.
- 4G is the standard – For most users, 4G offers a reliable blend of speed and coverage.
- 5G is growing – While it promises faster speeds and lower latency, 5G coverage is still expanding, and not all devices support it yet. In fact, the rollout of 5G won’t necessarily fix mobile signal problems.
One major issue with 5G is that it operates on higher frequencies, which don’t travel as far or penetrate buildings as well as lower frequencies used by 4G and 3G. This means that in some cases, users may see their connectivity worsen, especially indoors, even when their phone shows full signal, if it prioritises a weak 5G connection over a stronger 4G one.
Additionally, since 5G infrastructure is still being deployed, there are large gaps in coverage. If you’re in an area where 5G is patchy, your device may constantly switch between 4G and 5G, causing instability in your connection rather than improving it.
Understanding which network your phone is using can help explain why you may experience varying signal quality in different locations.
How Mobile Signal Boosters Improve Connectivity
If your signal isn’t cutting it, a mobile signal booster can help. These devices capture, amplify, and rebroadcast weak mobile signals to provide stronger coverage in homes, offices, and commercial spaces.
At Signal Solutions, we install Nextivity CEL-FI boosters, which are Ofcom-compliant and legal in the UK and Europe. Unlike unregulated boosters (which can interfere with networks), our solutions improve coverage without causing disruption.
Here’s why a signal booster is a smart investment:
- Eliminates dead zones – Ever been stuck in a room where your phone signal just disappears? A booster strengthens weak signals and fills in those frustrating gaps, ensuring reliable coverage in homes, offices, and large commercial spaces.
- Boosts call quality – No more shouting, “Can you hear me now?” into the phone. By amplifying your mobile signal, boosters help maintain clear, uninterrupted conversations, even in areas where calls frequently drop.
- Enhances security and reliability – Struggling to receive two-factor authentication (2FA) codes? A weak signal can block security messages, making account access difficult. Since 2FA codes are sent via SMS, they need a mobile network – WiFi alone won’t help. A booster ensures a full signal, so you never miss important verifications or alerts.
Why Choose Signal Solutions?
We’ve helped businesses and individuals across the UK and Europe overcome poor signal issues with expert installation of mobile signal boosters. Here’s why people trust us:
- Ofcom-compliant solutions – We only install Nextivity CEL-FI boosters, ensuring full regulatory approval.
- Tailored installations – Whether it’s an office, hotel, hospital, or home, we design solutions that specifically meet your needs.
- Proven success – Our track record speaks for itself, with countless satisfied customers experiencing better mobile connectivity. Check out our blog here: Signal Solutions Blog
- Exclusive customer portal – Every customer who has an installation with us gets access to our unique online portal. This allows you to see your signal-boosting setup in real time, monitor performance, and access key information like proposals, surveys, and installation details. No other provider offers this level of transparency and control.
Conclusion
The bars on your phone are a useful indicator – but they don’t always tell the full signal story. If you’re dealing with unreliable mobile signal, don’t just accept it! There are solutions available!
If you’d like to improve your connectivity, get in touch with us. Fill out our free desktop survey below!
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We offer a FREE desktop survey where you receive a solution design and quote to help you find the perfect mobile signal boosting system for your business. This no-obligation service provides you with a customised plan and detailed quote, so you can confidently choose the best signal solution tailored to your needs.
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