Our network

 

With LTE, South Africa's fastest network just got even faster.

What is LTE?

At Vodacom, we understand your needs and because fast, reliable communication is an integral part of your lifestyle, we made sure we were the first network in South Africa to trial super-fast LTE back in 2010. And now we're pleased to be able to announce that the LTE network has started rolling out across South Africa.
 
Long Term Evolution (LTE) - also commonly referred to as 4G - promises a faster and more efficient data network, which means you can download music, movies, games and apps faster than before, as well as upload pictures to your social networks in no time. It's a natural evolution from our already fast and reliable 3G network. Yes, fast just got faster. 
 

What makes LTE so good?

  • It's faster - up to three times faster in fact. LTE can reach up to 60Mbps in ideal conditions. However, on average LTE users will experience around 15Mbps.
  • The delay experienced - or latency - on a LTE network is reduced.
  • Higher speed and lower latency translates into a more stable user experience with stutter-free video, gaming and almost instantaneous music and picture downloads. There is less of a chance that your download will bomb out halfway through. So, you may never have to restart your download ever again.
 

Do I have LTE coverage in my area?

 
 
If you're not covered yet, please check back regularly as we're rolling out our coverage weekly and will be updating this map frequently to ensure that you know when LTE has reached you.
 

What happens if I use my LTE device in a 3G area where there is no LTE coverage?

When LTE data is not available, your device will automatically switch to 3G, so you'll always be connected.
 

To access the LTE service you will need:

  • Be a Vodacom customer (LTE is available to Contract, Top-Up and Prepaid customers)
  • Have an LTE capable device/modem and/or LTE capable handset that operates on the 1800MHz frequency band – Click here for a list of supported devices
  • Have a 64k or a 128k SIM in the device and as a Primary SIM card
  • Have the free LTE service activated on the SIM in the device
  • Set the phones’ APN to lte.vodacom.za
  • Set the network mode on the device to automatic
  • You must be in an area that is covered by the Vodacom LTE data network

 

Once you have the correct SIM card and device, you must have the LTE service activated on your SIM

To activate the LTE service:
  • Activation will happen automatically within 24 hours when the LTE device is detected on the network (your SIM card must be in the device and the device must be switched on). Auto activation happens from Monday to Friday – working days only.
  • LTE devices activated on the network on a Saturday will be provisioned on a Monday.
  • An SMS will be sent confirming the activation of the LTE service and advising you to set the APN to lte.vodacom.za.
  • If you’ve received the SMS but you still don’t have the LTE service activated, please reboot your phone.
 

Can’t wait to activate?

You can manually activate the LTE service at any time in any Vodacom Outlet, or by calling Customer Care (111 or 155) or by logging in to My Vodacom; manual activation can take up to 24 hours.
 
To show that you are in an LTE coverage area, your device will display either: 4G, L, 4 or LTE in your network coverage information.
 

How much will LTE cost?

  • The LTE service is free of charge
  • Data usage will be charged at your normal contract rates whether you are using 3G or LTE data.
 

LTE Support

 
 
Vodacom's standard Data terms and conditions apply.
 
 

Support

 

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