Heads-Up: UK 2G & 3G Networks Are Phasing Out — What It Means for Your IoT Setup - Go2Sim

At Go2Sim, we’ve always prided ourselves on delivering future-proof, reliable IoT connectivity. Whether that’s via our routers, hardware, or SIM management platform. As many in the industry already know, the mobile network landscape is changing fast. For businesses that rely on IoT and M2M devices, now is the time to check your setup.

What’s Happening: The 2G / 3G Sunset

  • The UK’s mobile operators are actively winding down support for legacy 3G networks. With full 3G shutdown scheduled to complete by the end of 2025.
  • Older 2G networks are also slated for phase-out over the coming years, as operators reallocate spectrum for more efficient 4G and 5G services.
  • One of the largest UK operators recently confirmed that they will withdraw inbound-roaming services for 2G and 3G by late 2025.

The aim? To deliver faster, more reliable, and more energy-efficient connectivity as demand for data grows and devices multiply.

What This Means for IoT & M2M Deployments

If you’re running devices depending solely on 2G or 3G (For example older routers, sensors, meters, or legacy trackers) the sunset could mean:

  • Loss of mobile data and connectivity once the relevant network is switched off.
  • Disrupted communications for remote devices (CCTV, ANPR, telemetry units, smart-metering, etc.).
  • Unplanned downtime or service failures at customer or operational sites — especially where fallback connectivity isn’t built-in.

In short: if your devices aren’t 4G/5G-ready, there’s a real risk of disconnection when networks retire.

What You Should Do Now: Upgrade & Audit

To avoid disruption, we recommend you take the following steps before end of 2025:

  1. Audit your device estate — identify any devices or SIMs still running in 2G or 3G mode.
  2. Check compatibility — ensure all hardware supports 4G or 5G (and VoLTE if voice/data mix matters).
  3. Plan upgrades or replacements — swap in modern routers, SIMs, or hardware before shutdown deadlines.
  4. Use fallback connectivity — consider dual-SIM/dual-network devices or SIMs with automatic failover.
  5. Contact Go2Sim for support — we’re here to help you migrate smoothly, with compatible hardware, SIMs, and configuration.

Why Upgrading Is Actually a Win

Switching off 2G/3G isn’t just a “goodbye” it’s an opportunity. Upgrading to modern 4G/5G connectivity brings:

  • Faster, more stable data and cellular performance.
  • Lower risk of downtime and network failure.
  • Stronger security and updated network protocols.
  • Future-proof infrastructure for new IoT deployments.

At Go2Sim, our routers, SIMs, and connectivity solutions are already designed with this future in mind. Ensuring you get seamless performance without legacy-technology headaches.

We’re Here to Help

If you’re unsure whether your current hardware will be affected, or you’d like to explore upgrading to 4G/5G-ready solutions, please reach out. We can help audit your setup, recommend replacements, and get you ready for the network evolution. Without downtime, without fuss.

Because at the end of the day, “always connected” isn’t just a slogan. It’s a commitment.

Go2Sim News & Insights, your go-to hub for all things IoT & beyond.

Discover how we’re connecting the world, one SIM at a time.

Be the first to know

Get Go2Sim News & Insights by subscribing to our latest updates.

Get in touch with Go2Sim.

  • address icon The Guard House
    The Historic Dockyard
    Chatham
    Kent, ME4 4TE
  • phone icon 01634 559846
  • email icon sales@go2sim.com

"*" indicates required fields

*