Among mobile phone users, the question of what is data roaming is usually repeated on a regular basis. It is that the term is easily recognizable, but not everyone is aware of what really fulfills this function. When we go from one place to another with our mobile, we do not lose connection at any time. The phone jumps from the WiFi networks that we recognize, to mobile data imperceptibly.
However when we travel abroad the situation changes. Unless we express to our operator that we want a data connection, the phone will disconnect. When stepping on foreign territory, we have to have authorization to connect to the networks. This is due to the local agreements that each operator has. Understanding what data roaming is is knowing how these agreements and our own devices work.
What is data roaming in a nutshell?
Data roaming is the name by which it is known at all times when we need a mobile data network beyond our national territory. It does not apply to WiFi networks, but to mobile data networks or telephone signal. It does not matter if the operator we have also works in said country, since data roaming comes into action when we leave the country where we sign the contract for our line.
The Mobile phone operators have the obligation to warn the user when data roaming is activated and the new charges to be covered in foreign territory. Also, the user can choose not to enable this feature. In this case, the phone will not be able to connect to mobile data networks, but we will be able to communicate using WiFi. In the world of mobile telephony, data roaming has expanded under its English term: roaming.
When should you activate data roaming?
La Data roaming doesn't just happen when crossing a border, although it is the most widespread case. There are also countries where telephone operators do not have agreements between them. So, when you reach an area where our mobile does not have coverage, you will not be able to use another's antennas. Technically, data roaming kicks in when the phone loses direct connection to our carrier.
In most cases, this connection is not perceived as lost in national territory because the operators share antennas. But it could be the case that some countries have each operator separately and there if data roaming is required nationwide.
With the virtual mobile phone operators the same thing happens. There are operators that do not have direct coverage and have to reach agreements with others to provide the service. The most widespread case in Spanish territory is Pepephone. It uses Yoigo's coverage, and for this reason it can cover itself with its towers and lines in Spain. But when leaving the country different configurations are required to maintain the service.
Data roaming, by default, is disabled on phones. You have to activate it manually and it is recommended to do it when traveling abroad. In the case of moving around the European continent, the so-called European roaming that maintains certain rates, but it is not the modality that is applied in the rest of the world.
Advantages of data roaming
La The main advantage of activating roaming on the mobile phone is that we can keep in touch with our loved ones. The idea is to be able to use the same line from our country of origin regardless of whether we are abroad. When roaming or data roaming is activated, we can enjoy the same services and functions of the telephone plan that we have contracted in our own country. Including mobile data and text messages.
Disadvantages of roaming
By understanding what data roaming is and its usefulness, we also know the negative points of this function. The main drawback of roaming is its price. This is a very expensive feature that can double or triple the cost of a traditional phone bill.
When roaming is activated, for a call to arrive, for example, from Spain to Argentina, up to three telephone operators are involved. This causes costs to rise significantly. With data roaming activated, you are not only charged for the calls you make, but also for the ones you answer, the amount of mobile data used and the messages sent. In short, it is a very high price for ordinary users.
Are there alternatives to data roaming?
To stay connected and well communicated When we are traveling, there are some alternatives that can save us money. As a first option, the use of WiFi networks and with them instant messaging and communication applications such as WhatsApp, Skype or Telegram. This is possible when we have an Internet connection available through WiFi networks.
In case of travel abroad for a considerable time, you can investigate if your device is compatible with the telephone networks, and hire a temporary plan. This is often cheaper than using roaming. However, for some travelers it is somewhat cumbersome because it involves registering a new telephone plan in another country.
Conclusions
When understand and take advantage of data roaming, we have to consider budgets and the need for connectivity while traveling. The option to activate roaming is available on all phones, and although for some the service can be very expensive, it may also be essential for family or work reasons.
Otherwise, the another option is to maintain the connection using WiFi networks to communicate through video calls, or directly consult to contract a telephone service in the country of destination. This last option requires some extra formalities, but it can be cheaper if we think about saving money on the trip and maintaining the possibility of connection through mobile data. Today mobile devices can help us to be 100% connected and no matter from which corner of the world.