![\"Average](\"https:\/\/teknomers.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Using-WiFi-on-trains-in-Spain-is-a-frustrating-experience.png\"\/)
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<span>Image: Ookla - Average unloading speed on European trains.<\/span><\/code><\/pre>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\nA Multi-Layered Problem Facilitating Disconnection<\/h2>\n
The \u00a0challenges\u00a0 facing rail WiFi in Spain are multi-faceted. One of the primary issues stems from a deficiency in the \u00a0backhaul\u00a0 connection. The \u00a0backhaul\u00a0 is integral in how trains connect to public mobile networks and, therefore, how well they are able to provide internet service. Most countries, including Spain, rely on \u00a0“incidental” mobile coverage\u00a0; that is, the antennas are primarily designed for stationary population centers rather than the rapidly moving trains. This leads to frequent \u00a0dead zones\u00a0, signal drops, and insufficient bandwidth, leaving many passengers frustrated during their travels.<\/p>\n
Outdated Technology: A Barrier to Connectivity<\/h2>\n
Within the train carriages themselves, \u00a0outdated technology\u00a0 further hampers connectivity efforts. A significant portion of connections still operates on \u00a0WiFi 4\u00a0, a standard established in 2009. Additionally, 38% of connections utilize the \u00a02.4 GHz band\u00a0, which is more susceptible to interference. This mixture of old technology means that even if external connections improve, internal WiFi quality will remain low.<\/p>\n
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\n\n\n\n <img alt=\"Mobile Internet is bad\" width=\"375\" height=\"142\" src=\"https:\/\/i.blogs.es\/2fc797\/sin-datos\/375_142.jpeg\"\/><\/code><\/pre>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\nInnovative Solutions: Learning from Other Countries<\/h2>\n
Several countries have successfully improved their train WiFi systems, offering valuable lessons for Spain. For instance, \u00a0Sweden\u00a0 recently made significant advancements in its train connectivity. Until early 2024, Swedish trains offered a mere \u00a02 Mbps\u00a0. However, post-reforms by the \u00a0PTS regulator\u00a0, including the allocation of public funds for infrastructure and the establishment of network obligations, saw this speed multiply by more than 30 times within a year.<\/p>\n
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<\/p>\n <span>Image: Ookla - Average upload speed on European trains.<\/span><\/code><\/pre>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\nSwitzerland and France: Contrasting Approaches<\/h2>\n
Switzerland employs a unique model centered around a service known as \u00a0“FreeSurf.”\u00a0 This system allows passengers with a \u00a0Swiss SIM card\u00a0 to use mobile data without tapping into their usual rates while traveling. Meanwhile, \u00a0France\u00a0 has invested in a dedicated \u00a0rail network\u00a0 that features base stations positioned every \u00a02-3 kilometers\u00a0 along major routes. Such robust infrastructure has elevated France’s ranking in train connectivity, placing them well above Spain.<\/p>\n
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<\/p>\n <span>Image: Ookla - Median latency of European countries compared to Taiwan.<\/span><\/code><\/pre>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\nStructural Challenges: WiFi or Mobile Data?<\/h2>\n
Spanish trains are not only hindered by coverage but also by the structural design of modern trains. Many rail cars are designed to block signals, functioning almost like \u00a0Faraday cages\u00a0 due to the \u00a0Low-E glass\u00a0 used in windows. Some countries, like \u00a0Germany\u00a0, have already begun addressing this by investing significantly in making their train windows permeable to signals. Meanwhile, Belgium opted to invest funds differently by enhancing \u00a0mobile coverage\u00a0 instead of rolling out an onboard WiFi plan.<\/p>\n
Global Perspectives: Mobile Data Takes Precedence<\/h2>\n
In much of \u00a0Asia\u00a0, nations like Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan prioritize dedicated \u00a0mobile data coverage\u00a0 over traditional WiFi on trains. They invest considerably in creating robust mobile networks that can effectively serve trains traveling at high speeds. In Taiwan, for instance, speeds exceed those of Spain and even include the presence of \u00a0WiFi 6\u00a0 technology on some rail lines.<\/p>\n
With \u00a0satellite internet\u00a0 solutions emerging in various regions, there is renewed hope for train connectivity. Many rail operators, including \u00a0SNCF\u00a0 and \u00a0Trenitalia\u00a0, are exploring the use of platforms like \u00a0Starlink\u00a0 in low-coverage areas. Although these approaches are in test phases, they reflect the ongoing evolution of train connectivity strategies across the globe.<\/p>\n