Verizon network is fastest around, report found

June 28, 2011

PC magazine recently concluded that Verizon's 4G LTE network in Chicago is the fastest mobile network in the nation. In all, the technology news provider tested six wireless carriers in 21 U.S. cities and four more rural regions for its annual report.

Verizon's 4G LTE network in Chicago topped the list with average download speeds of 15.5 Mbps, according to PC magazine. T-Mobile was a distant second in the rankings with an average download speed of 4.1 Mbps for its HSPA+ network.

"Speeds vary based on tower location, network load, device used, and even the weather, we can't predict performance in a specific location; rather, we're giving a snapshot of a few days' worth of usage in several locations across a metro area," PC magazine said.

The publication was also quick to point out that not all 4G networks are created equal. There remains a considerable amount of ambiguity in the telecom industry regarding what exactly constitutes a 4G network.

Deploying the best network for their investment is something that companies and managers in charge of wireless expense management should think hard about, according to experts.

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