Canada is a vast country with diverse terrain and geographical features. Some areas are extremely developed, while others still lack infrastructure and connectivity.
While the big cities have excellent connectivity, the remote areas still face challenges. That doesn’t mean remote areas are completely isolated from the rest of the world. Connectivity ensures that you stay informed, safe, and can even work remotely.
In this guide, Remitly explores some of the connectivity challenges you may face as an immigrant moving to a remote location in Canada, and offers some solutions that could help you settle in.
Importance of remote connectivity
Connectivity enables you to stay in touch with loved ones or colleagues in different regions of Canada and the world. It makes it easier for students to access online learning resources and for the working population to engage in remote work.
It’s also a good way to stay informed about what’s happening in the country and around the world. In case of an emergency, connectivity makes it easier to seek help, and can even save lives.
Additionally, it can be a key component of accessing entertainment. You get to enjoy your favourite shows or sports events regardless of where you are.
It facilitates greater inclusion because it has an equalizing effect. That means people in rural areas have the same access to essential services, information, and opportunities as those in urban areas.
Rural connectivity challenges in Canada
While there are various challenges you may encounter when it comes to connectivity in remote territories of the country, here are some of the most common.
- Geographical isolation: Areas that are far from urban centres inevitably lag in terms of infrastructure development. This makes it hard for service providers to offer access to things like the internet and mobile connection.
- Extreme weather conditions: Weather conditions in certain areas can be problematic. Strong winds may bring down power lines, while storms can disrupt satellite and mobile signals. Such conditions can compromise the quality of connectivity you enjoy, or eliminate it for some time.
- More limited service providers: Because of the challenges inherent to remote areas, some providers prefer to stay away. That means you may not have as many options to choose from.
- High costs: Service providers need to cushion themselves from the negative outcomes that may arise from things like bad weather. Installing their facilities in remote areas may also require more investment. As a result, that can lead to expensive rates.
Ways to stay connected in remote areas
Here are some ways you can stay connected through the internet.
Satellite internet
Satellite internet connection is among the latest technologies keeping people connected in remote areas. The technology requires you to have a receiving device—often a satellite dish—which connects to a data-emitting satellite orbiting the earth.
It works in much the same way as a satellite television, and is a good option for staying connected in rural areas of Canada because it doesn’t require any expensive infrastructure.
Starlink is one of the most popular satellite internet providers in the world. The company has several satellites orbiting the Earth, making it easy to connect to different parts of the world. It’s among the most affordable and stable options you can choose from.
Hughesnet is another satellite internet service provider available in Canada. While its speeds may not be as fast as Starlink’s, it’s an excellent option, especially if you want something slightly different. It offers packages that are not the same as other competitors, which is why it’s worth checking out.
Viasat is the next option you can consider. It’s another stable internet provider that offers unique subscription packages.
Consider all the service providers available in your region, and choose the most suitable depending on your needs.
Pros
- One of the upsides to using satellite internet to stay connected is that it can work anywhere, including if you’re travelling by car across remote regions.
- The method offers significantly faster speeds compared to traditional methods of internet connectivity.
- It doesn’t rely on your region’s infrastructure status, so it’s a good investment for individuals and organizations.
- It’s an affordable way for many people to stay connected.
Cons
- A downside to using this method to stay connected is that it can be relatively expensive to set up. Purchasing the equipment you need to go active and paying for the installation costs can be costly.
- Extreme weather conditions can still cause problems like poor signal.
Mobile hotspots
Mobile hotspots can be another convenient way to enjoy internet connectivity in rural Canada. To use this method, find out about the mobile network service providers available in your region and browse through their services.
This method requires you to have a receiver that connects to cell towers in the area. The good news is that most network providers have portable hotspot devices that go at affordable rates.
The installation cost is relatively cheap as well, although prices may vary depending on the terrain you’re located in. Those in more rugged areas may require more investment to enjoy a stable connection.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the speeds you get may vary depending on your location. Some regions have 3G connectivity, while others may enjoy 5G speeds.
Telus is one of the most popular cell phone networks in the country. It has a wide reach in different rural areas. In certain areas, it even has 5G coverage, which makes it ideal for streaming. The network offers flexible home internet options, so you can be sure to find something that suits your needs.
Bell is another popular wireless internet and TV service provider. It’s one of the largest telephone companies in the country, and has extensive infrastructure to ensure fast speeds and reliability.
It offers a range of internet packages, so you should be able to find something that suits your budget. It’s also known to have good customer service.
Rogers is the third network you may want to consider when living in remote parts of the country. Like the previous two, it has extensive infrastructural coverage, which makes it reliable.
It offers a range of internet packages, so you can find something that works.
Pros
- This is a straightforward way to enjoy internet connectivity. You don’t need any special skills for installation, so you won’t have to worry about initial setup costs.
- It offers data packages or bundles, so you can subscribe to as little or as much as you need, at any given time.
Cons
- This method is unavailable in remote regions with poor network infrastructure.
- The data rates mean it can be expensive for households with multiple people who need to stay connected.
Effective communication tools and technologies for remote areas
Here are some tools and technologies you might consider to boost your connectivity.
Two-way radios
Two-way radios can be a simple solution for staying in touch with people who live around the same region. They don’t necessarily require a cellular or internet connection.
There are long and short-range radios, with the former being ideal for businesses or people spread across a larger area, while the short-range options can be a good pick for families and friends who stay close to each other.
These radios often have a robust build that ensures they can withstand harsh conditions such as hot temperatures, dust, rain, and snow. They facilitate instant communication, which can be ideal in emergencies.
Two-way radios are generally cheaper than cell phones, which makes it easy for multiple people to acquire handsets.
Cell phone and internet boosters
Cell phone and internet boosters are devices that help enhance the quality of network or Wi-Fi signals.
Cell phone boosters are also known as “mobile signal repeaters.” They can be a good way to enhance the signal reception in your region.
They come in a variety of sizes and designs and have varying features, which means you’ll need to do some research to find the one that’s most suitable for your specific needs.
Internet boosters are a good way to increase your Wi-Fi signal coverage. This is especially helpful if you want to share your Wi-Fi signal with people around your neighbourhood.
VoIP technology
Voice over Internet Protocol is a technology that can help ensure you remain connected while living in remote regions. This technology enables voice communication over an internet connection.
It works with different devices, including ordinary smartphones, computers, and dedicated VoIP phones. This technology is affordable and easily scalable.
Tips for maintaining quality rural connectivity
1. Choose the right internet connection option
If you’re near cell phone towers, choosing the hotspot internet option can be a cost-effective way to stay connected. In areas with no cell phone coverage, go for satellite internet options. It may be a bit expensive to set up, but it’ll be worth it in the long run.
2. Consider multiple communication devices
Having multiple communication devices can help you stay in touch with people throughout the year. A walkie-talkie alongside your cell phone and computer ensures you don’t get cut off if one or two devices fail.
3. Always have backup batteries
If you’re in regions that experience frequent power blackouts, it’s a good idea to have backup batteries. If you’re using a device with a rechargeable battery, make sure the battery is full and ready to go. It’s also important to be aware of your battery’s lifespan so you can replace it before you run into complications.
4. Optimize connectivity
When setting up things like satellite receivers, ensure they are situated away from obstructions that may compromise signal quality. Use things like cell phone boosters or internet boosters to enjoy better speeds and wider signal coverage.
5. Join community initiatives
Some communities in remote regions of Canada have set up initiatives to benefit their people. Such initiatives have pooled resources and built community-based internet access frameworks. Communities contribute by ensuring proper maintenance of facilities and collaborative payment of bills.
The future of remote connectivity
The government of Canada is constantly facilitating network penetration to different regions of the country. In addition, community initiatives and innovative technologies are simplifying ways to remain connected.
The Universal Broadband Fund is a program that provides funding for high-speed internet across the country. Up $50 million CAD will go to mobile projects to help Indigenous peoples.
All these efforts combined point to a bright future for remote connectivity in the country, meaning you have the opportunity to stay connected with friends and family back home wherever you choose to settle in Canada.
FAQs
How can I stay connected in remote regions of Canada?
You can stay connected through different methods, including satellite phones, two-way radios (walkie-talkies), internet via satellite, and satellite messengers.
Are there areas in Canada with no signal at all?
Yes, certain areas in remote Canada don’t have satellite or cell phone network signals. These are mostly in the northern regions such as Yukon, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories.
Are there any internet options for connectivity in remote areas of Canada?
Yes. Regions that don’t have cellular network penetration often have satellite connectivity options. Some of the service providers in these regions include Starlink, Viasat, and Hughesnet.
Is there an alternative to Starlink in Canada?
Yes, there are other options available, such as Viasat, Hughesnet, Xplore, and Telesat.