Yettel Mobile Telephony and Network Infrastructure in Serbia
Yettel operates a comprehensive mobile telecommunications network in Serbia, utilizing a diverse range of spectrum licenses to provide voice and data services. The foundation of its operations is based on a license received on December 31, 2006, which covers GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) in the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz ranges, as well as UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) / IMT 2000 in the 2100 MHz range. This license was initially valid for 10 years, with an option for a 10-year renewal.
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Key Facts
- Customer Base: 2.96 million customers.
- Network Codes: IMSI code 220-01; MSISDN prefixes 062, 063, and 069 (+381).
- GSM Coverage: Reaches 99% of the inhabited territory and 91% of the total land area.
- Global Reach: Roaming available in 158 countries across 369 foreign networks, including satellite and marine options.
- Infrastructure: Includes a Tier 3 data center established in 2011 to house the core network.
Network Coverage and Infrastructure
Yettel's infrastructure is supported by over 1,033 active Base Transceiver Stations (BTS)—the physical equipment that facilitates wireless communication between devices and the network. These stations ensure connectivity across urban centers, suburban areas, major highways, and tourist hubs. By the end of 2013, the total number of base stations grew to 3,048 following the construction of 372 new sites.
As of December 31, 2016, the network coverage metrics were recorded as follows:
| Technology | Territory Coverage (%) | Population Coverage (%) |
|---|---|---|
| GSM (2G) | 91.90% | 99.42% |
| UMTS (3G) | 91.02% | 98.51% |
| LTE (4G) | 9.95% | 53.78% |
Technological Evolution: 2G to 4G
2G and the Transition to 3G
The 2G network utilizes GSM, GPRS, and EDGE (Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution), which is often considered a 2.75 generation technology. Operating on 900 MHz and 1800 MHz, EDGE has been commercially active since November 2004 and shares the same coverage footprint as the standard GSM network, offering speeds up to 250 kbit/s.
3G and High-Speed Data
The 3G network, encompassing UMTS, HSDPA, and HSPA+, covers over 98% of the Serbian population. These services are available in more than 250 cities and along all major roads. The network supports various theoretical maximum speeds:
- HSPA+ 42: Download up to 42 Mbit/s; Upload up to 5.76 Mbit/s.
- HSPA+: Download up to 21 Mbit/s; Upload up to 5.76 Mbit/s.
- HSPA: Download up to 14.4 Mbit/s; Upload up to 2 Mbit/s.
- HSDPA: Download 7.2 / 3.6 Mbit/s; Upload up to 384 kbit/s.
4G LTE Implementation
To prepare for 4G (Long Term Evolution) and advanced services, Yettel (then Telenor) initiated a Next Generation Network (NGN) transition project in mid-2010. This modernization effort was carried out in collaboration with Ericsson, Nera, and LG. The 4G network operates on 800, 1800, and 2100 MHz frequencies, providing theoretical speeds of up to 300 Mbit/s.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the network prefixes for Yettel in Serbia?
The MSISDN network codes are 062, 063, and 069. When dialing internationally, these are accessed via the +381 prefix (e.g., +381 62).
What is the IMSI code for the network?
The International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) network code is 220-01.
How extensive is the 3G coverage in Serbia?
The 3G signal (UMTS, HSDPA, and HSPA+) covers over 98% of the population and is available in more than 250 cities and along all major roads.
What are the maximum theoretical speeds for 4G LTE?
The 4G LTE network can reach theoretical download speeds of up to 300 Mbit/s using the 800, 1800, and 2100 MHz frequency bands.
Does Yettel support international roaming?
Yes, roaming is enabled in 158 countries across 369 foreign mobile operator networks, including one satellite network, one cheap network, and two marine networks.