By Rolla Hassan, Ph.D
Shutting down legacy 2G/3G networks means discontinuing and decommissioning these older-generation mobile network technologies. When a network operator decides to shut down its 2G or 3G networks, it no longer provides the services associated with those technologies, such as voice calls, messaging, and data connectivity.
The process of shutting down legacy networks typically involves the following steps:
Why phasing out 2/3G?
The two figures below illustrate that the 2G/3G is accelerating from 2020 to 2024.
Regional Development in Legacy Network Sunsets
Data sources:
- GSMA Legacy mobile network rationalisation Experiences of 2G and 3G migrations in Asia-Pacific May 2020
- GSMA Technology Neutrality and Legacy Network Sunsets December 2023
- Mobile Network Sunsets, Q4 2023
Telecom Analysis 
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