Switzerland, renowned for its exceptional quality of life, draws expatriates seeking new professional avenues and access to cutting-edge technological infrastructure. This guide, crafted by Swisscom, a leading industry expert, outlines the essential digital and telecom solutions for newcomers, addressing both immediate connectivity needs and future requirements in an evolving tech landscape.
Connectivity in Switzerland
Switzerland boasts one of the world's most advanced telecom networks, ensuring fast and reliable internet connectivity. Key services available to new residents include high-speed internet, mobile telephony, and solutions tailored to remote work and the growing digitization of services.
Switzerland offers high-speed internet access
A stable, fast internet connection is indispensable in Swiss daily life. Whether you're working remotely, streaming, or staying in touch with family abroad, the demand for robust connectivity is ever-growing. Switzerland's fiber optic network is highly developed, with continuous investment fueling its expansion. As the Internet of Things, virtual reality, and telework evolve, data consumption skyrockets, necessitating even more powerful networks. Major operators compete fiercely to deliver superior service at competitive rates.
Choosing the right internet solution
Understanding your specific internet needs is crucial when settling in Switzerland. Remote workers or households with multiple users require fast, dependable connections to maintain productivity. Before choosing a provider, verify the available speeds at your residence and explore subscription options. Internet speeds typically fall into three categories:
- Up to 100 Mb/s: Adequate for basic household use—browsing, emailing, standard-definition streaming, and video calls.
- Up to 1 Gb/s: Suitable for families with multiple devices and activities like 4K streaming, online gaming, or video conferencing.
- Up to 10 Gb/s: For the most demanding users, enabling large data transfers and seamless experiences with VR and AR applications.
While fiber optics enable the highest speeds, enhanced copper networks can also provide reliable connections.
Swisscom's fiber-optic network
Swisscom leads the fiber-optic race in Switzerland, investing approximately 1.7 billion Swiss francs annually. By 2030, Swisscom aims to cover 75% to 80% of Swiss homes and businesses, with complete coverage expected soon after. The gradual phase-out of copper networks reflects Swisscom's commitment to sustainability, reducing energy consumption significantly.
Mobile network in Switzerland
Switzerland's mobile network offers unparalleled coverage and stability. Newcomers can swiftly acquire a SIM or eSIM from a variety of operators, with competitive packages available. For those frequently making international calls, tailored packages simplify cross-border communication.
How do mobile phone plans work in Switzerland?
Swiss mobile subscriptions generally include unlimited calls and texts, with data volume and connection speed being the key differentiators. Subscriptions offering higher speeds often provide priority network access. For lighter users, low-cost or prepaid options exist.
Once a plan is chosen, additional features like international calling or multiple SIM cards can be activated.
Selecting the right mobile plan
As you settle in, evaluate your data consumption. Messaging apps, browsing, and standard-definition streaming can be handled by a moderate data plan at 100 Mb/s. For high-definition streaming or gaming, a plan with speeds of at least 1 Gb/s and a generous data allowance is recommended. Additionally, if you rely heavily on messaging apps or travel frequently, choose a plan with unlimited data or roaming benefits.
Swisscom's mobile network
As the first European operator to launch 5G, Swisscom's 5G and 5G+ networks now cover 99% of Switzerland. From urban centers to remote villages, Swisscom ensures connectivity. Their flexible mobile plans include unlimited usage across Switzerland and Europe, with family discounts and child-friendly subscriptions.
TV and digital services in Switzerland
Switzerland's telecom operators, including Swisscom, offer digital TV services. These packages provide access to a wide range of channels, sports content, and streaming platforms, complete with recording and replay features.
Swisscom's Blue TV
Blue TV by Swisscom, powered by Android, is Swisscom's flagship entertainment product, praised for its sleek design and versatility. With access to the Google Play Store, users can enjoy a multitude of apps and stream content on multiple devices simultaneously—whether on TV or through a mobile app.
Remote working and digital services package
The surge in teleworking has made reliable connectivity even more critical. Swisscom offers packages tailored to remote workers, with solutions that unify communications and streamline professional collaboration. These options enable expatriates to stay connected and productive, regardless of location.
Innovation at Swisscom's core
Swisscom consistently leads in technological innovation, investing heavily in research to stay ahead of the curve. The company provides cloud services, electronic signatures, cybersecurity solutions, and digital identity protection to meet the demands of today's interconnected world, without compromising on security or performance.
For expatriates arriving in Switzerland, Swisscom offers comprehensive solutions to meet all connectivity needs. Whether for business or leisure, Swisscom is the trusted partner, ensuring seamless integration into Swiss life with its mobile, high-speed internet, and teleworking services.
Additionally, Swisscom's Newcomers team, with over a decade of experience, provides dedicated support to help ease the transition for expatriates throughout their stay.
