What Is Verizon’s Extended Network? (All Your Need to Know)

When traveling, you might occasionally see your network name change to “Extended.” You might be confused as to why this happens and why your internet connection might be slower with this update. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what Verizon’s Extended Network is, how it works, and why it may be right for your needs. So read on for all the details!

What Is Verizon’s Extended Network?

Verizon’s Extended Network is a feature that allows you to access the cellular towers of other cellular service providers with no roaming charges. That way, even if you’re outside Verizon’s coverage area, you can still make calls and access the internet without paying extra.

This feature is possible because Verizon has agreements with other major cellular service providers. They have towers in most parts of the country that Verizon customers can access. 

That said, depending on your area, Verizon will automatically connect you to one of its partner networks if there’s no Verizon coverage available. That way, you can stay connected and keep doing what you were doing without worrying about any additional charges.

What Is Verizon’s Extended Network LTE?

Extended Network LTE is just another name for the process of connecting you to another cellular service provider for coverage. In fact, companies use various names to refer to this process, such as extended coverage, extended network, off-net coverage, domestic roaming, etc. Verizon might also refer to it as domestic roaming in some of their plan descriptions.

However, all these names mean essentially the very same thing. So, don’t worry if Verizon’s website or app states that you’re connected to its Extended Network LTE. It’s the same extended coverage feature provided by Verizon.

Where Can You See Verizon’s Extended Network?

Given the fact that Verizon has agreements with other cellular service providers in the US, Verizon’s Extended Network is available only domestically. This means that if you want to take advantage of Verizon’s Extended Network, you’ll need to be in one of the following locations:

• Within the United States
• US Virgin Islands
• Puerto Rico.

However, you won’t be able to access this feature if you’re roaming internationally. Since Verizon does not offer Extended Network service outside the United States, you will be charged international roaming fees if you try to access Verizon’s network in other countries.

Do You Have to Pay Extra for Using Extended Network with Verizon?

All current Verizon plans already come with Verizon’s Extended Network included at no additional cost. So, if you’re using Verizon’s network and are connected to a partner network for coverage, you won’t be charged any extra fees. 

The only exception is if your Verizon plan is an old one. If that’s the case, you’ll need to visit Verizon’s My Plan page to check the details of your plan. Usually, if there’s no information on domestic roaming, it’s already included. Any additional costs will be listed if there are any.

Can Verizon’s Extended Network Change Your Device Settings?

Verizon’s Extended Network won’t change your device settings. You’ll only see your network name changed. Verizon might also provide a notification when you’re connected to an Extended Network. 

Can Verizon’s Extended Network Use Your Mobile Data?

Yes, Verizon’s Extended Network will use your mobile data when you’re connected to a partner network for coverage. However, the speed of your connection will depend on the other network’s coverage. Usually, using an extended network comes with slower speeds, so keep that in mind.

Can You Use Verizon’s Extended Network to Make Calls?

Generally, yes. Verizon’s Extended Network allows you to make calls the same way that you would when using Verizon’s network. However, in some cases, you will need to enter a “1” before the area code to make a call in some areas.

Can You Use Verizon’s Extended Network to Make International Calls?

Provided you have the International Services feature enabled on your Verizon account. The process will be the same as with any other international calls made in the area with Verizon coverage.

Can You Use HD Voice Work with Verizon’s Extended Network?

Some areas may not support Verizon HD Voice. So, there’s a chance it will not work once you’re connected to Verizon’s Extended Network.

Is There a Difference Between the Verizon’s Extended Network and Roaming?

When you think of roaming, you usually think of international roaming. This service usually incurs additional fees and is used to provide service in other countries. This feature is often quite expensive since it requires  Verizon to purchase access from other networks. 

Verizon’s Extended Network, on the other hand, is a domestic roaming service that Verizon provides with its current plans at no extra cost. Verizon has agreements with other domestic networks to provide Verizon users with the same coverage they would have if they were using Verizon’s network.

So, both of the features are essentially roaming services. The only difference is that Verizon’s Extended Network is used domestically and comes at no extra cost, while international roaming is used in foreign countries and incurs additional fees. 

Conclusion

So, when you see “Extended” as your network name, it simply means that you’re in an area that doesn’t have Verizon’s cell phone towers. Instead, you’re automatically connected to one of Verizon’s partner carriers’ towers. In such cases, you’ll still be able to make calls, send text messages, and browse the web – just as you would on Verizon’s network with no additional charges.