3G Sunset in Canada

In 2022, major U.S. companies like AT&T decided to discontinue their 3G networks, and Canadian Networks such as Rogers and Bell are now following suit. As of July 31st, all major Canadian mobile carriers will also be ending support for their 3G networks. So, what does this mean for you?

If your security system is running on a 3G network, you will need to switch to an LTE network as soon as possible. If you don’t upgrade, here’s how you will be affected:

  • Alarm signals won’t be sent to our monitoring centre in the case of an emergency
  • You will no longer receive real time activity alerts
  • You won’t be able to arm/disarm your system from your app
Contact Us to Update Your System Today
How to Stop Your Panel Beeping
3g Sunset graphic
Book an appointment below to make sure you stay safe and connected for years to come!

If you’ve already booked your system update, rest assured — we are working tirelessly to complete installations as quickly as possible, including expanding our team with trusted contractors to meet the demand. The impact on your system should be minimal if you’re already in our queue.

3G Upgrades

How to Stop Beeping & Clear Trouble Messages

Due to the nationwide 3G cellular network shutdown, your security system may now show a trouble light or message and start beeping. This is because your system’s cellular communicator can no longer connect to our monitoring station.

Below are steps for common systems:

Silence the Beeping:

  • Press ✱ (Star) to silence the trouble sound.

View the Trouble Message:

  • Press ✱2 to view the trouble type:
    • 1 = Service Required (often cellular communicator)
    • 3 = Telephone Line / Cellular Failure
    • 4 = Fail to Communicate

Next Steps:

  • This will not resolve on its own.
  • Call Security ONE at 1-800-265-5317 to book a communicator upgrade.

Silence the Beeping:

  • Press OFF or DISARM (enter your code if prompted).

View the Trouble Message:

  • Look for: Check 103, Comm Failure, or Check System on the display.

Next Steps:

  • Your communicator must be upgraded.
  • Call Security ONE at 1-800-265-5317 to restore monitoring.

Silence the Beeping:

  • Press and hold CLEAR or enter your user code then press CLEAR.

View the Trouble:

  • Press and hold the TRBL button (⚠️) or INFO.
  • LED keypads will light the trouble indicator.
  • LCD keypads may display:
    • “GSM Fail”
    • “TLM Trouble”
    • “Fail to Communicate”

Next Steps:

  • A 3G communicator upgrade is needed.
  • Call Security ONE at 1-800-265-5317 to schedule.

Silence the Beeping:

  • Enter your 4-digit user code and press OK or STATUS to silence.

View the Trouble Message:

  • The screen may say:
    • “Comm Fail”
    • “Check Comm”
    • “Cellular Fault” or similar

Next Steps:

  • Your system is no longer communicating and must be upgraded.
  • Call Security ONE at 1-800-265-5317.

FAQ

Can I Still Arm/Disarm My System?

Yes, but any alarm signal will NOT reach the monitoring station until your communicator is replaced.

📞 Need Help?

Call Security ONE at 1-800-265-5317 or email service@securityonealarm.com. We’ll get your system back online quickly.

Can I wait to upgrade my system?

While you have until the mid 2025 before 3G network support is ending, many parts of the infrastructure that keep 3G running are being turned off and replaced with newer networks already. To avoid issues down the road, we recommend upgrading sooner rather than later.

Why is 3G coverage ending?

In order to make way for new, more advanced technologies like LTE and 5G, older technologies like 3G will be shut down. However, with the new technology upgrade means a faster and more reliable connection, giving you peace of mind when it comes to protecting your home or business.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN 3G AND LTE?

LTE (Long-Term Evolution) outpaces 3G (Third Generation) in speed, with download speeds ranging from 5 Mbps to over 100 Mbps compared to 3G’s few Mbps. LTE also boasts lower latency and higher capacity, thanks to advanced radio access technologies, enabling faster response times and better support for simultaneous users. This technology advancement, coupled with widespread device compatibility, makes LTE the preferred choice for mobile telecommunications, particularly for data-intensive tasks like streaming HD video and remotely accessg, gradually supplanting 3G networks.

After I upgrade, will I need to upgrade again in the future?

Upgrades to security systems, including network replacements, may occur periodically. However, rest assured, we are committed to ongoing technology enhancements to ensure the best experience for our customers. That’s why we have introduced our Sunset Protection Program, available for a small monthly fee. With this program, should a network upgrade be required in the future, we’ll provide a complimentary upgrade, ensuring your system remains up-to-date without any additional hassle.

Signs Your System Might Be on 3G

  • You received a notice from us — If we reached out, it’s because our records show your system uses 3G.
  • Your system was installed before 2019 — Many systems installed before then used 3G modules.
  • You’re experiencing delayed or failed alerts — If you’re not receiving notifications or your app isn’t connecting properly, it could be due to failing 3G connectivity.
  • You’ve never upgraded your panel or communicator — If you haven’t done a tech upgrade in years, chances are it’s time.
  • You’re unsure what network you’re on — That’s a good reason to give us a quick call and confirm.
Schedule Your Upgrade Today!
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