Fixed internet traffic up 20.9%, mobile internet up 12%

8.04.2020

According to the data transmitted by electronic communications service providers, in the last week of March, the total data traffic increased on average by 12% on mobile networks and by 20.9% on fixed networks, while the voice traffic increased on average by 22% on mobile networks and by 22.7% on fixed networks. Total interconnection traffic grew, on average, by 21% on mobile networks and by 19% on fixed networks. The statistical data have been processed as compared to the end of February 2020, when the first case of COVID-19 infection was registered in Romania.

Data from the providers

According to the providers’ reports, on the mobile networks, data traffic grew by 12% on average (growth rates ranging from 7 % to 20%). On the fixed networks, data traffic increased by 20.9% on average, with growth rates ranging from 18% to 27%.

On mobile networks, voice traffic increased on average by 22% (growth rates ranging from 18.2 % to 24%), while on mobile networks it grew by 22.7%, the providers reporting traffic data higher by 8.5% - 44.7%.

Total interconnection traffic reported by electronic communications providers increased on average by 21% on mobile networks, growth rates ranging from 17.7% to 24%. On fixed networks, the total traffic increased on average by 19%, with growth rates from 6.3% and 41%.

Generally, the providers encountered an increasing number of congestion cases on mobile access networks (ports and wireless access resources faced load levels of over 80%).

The total data traffic reported by the main interexchange points in Romania - peering plus transit - (IXPs) increased by 10% - 33%.

Upon ANCOM’s request, the providers reported the average traffic increases registered at the end of March, taking as a point of reference (normal level) the confirmation date of the first COVID-19 case in Romania (25 February 2020).

Ensuring the uninterrupted provision of communications services

To ensure service continuity in case of increased data traffic, the providers have taken measures to more effectively monitor the available network capacity and to intervene where necessary, as well as measures to upgrade network equipment, and to simplify and speed up the procurement process.

Voice and data traffic levels have soared given the intensive implementation of teleworking, e-learning for school and university students, and the significant take-up of online entertainment.

ANCOM will constantly monitor the situation and the measures taken by the providers to ensure the proper functioning of the public electronic communications networks and services, the network load levels and the congestion cases.