Mobile operator lifecell, part of the DVL Group (Datagroup-Volia-lifecell), announced the completion of a comprehensive modernization of its network in the capital of Ukraine.
In just five months, the company significantly improved mobile connection quality and coverage by applying a non-standard approach with maximum efficiency.
The goal of the project was to enhance the customer experience by expanding network coverage and increasing mobile internet speed for more than 1 million lifecell subscribers in the capital amid a constant rise in data traffic consumption. To achieve this without years-long deployment of complextechnical solutions, lifecell chose an alternative strategy — targeted modernization based on a detailed analysis of the network’s actual condition.
The lifecell team conducted drive tests in various districts of Kyiv, creating an interactive map of key radio and service network indicators. A range of network parameters affecting mobile service quality was measured: signal strength, radio signal quality, upload/download data transmission speeds, channel quality indicator, voice call quality assessment, and latency from the subscriber’s request to content reception. This allowed the identification of network segments requiring priority optimization to improve connectivity quality and, consequently, the customer experience.
One of the operator’s main tasks was to improve indoor mobile coverage, as well as to increase outdoor capacity and coverage. Based on the analysis of the interactive map, the operator’s team modernized over 700 base stations in Kyiv, implementing several technical solutions. In particular, the installation of additional LTE900 and LTE2100 modules expanded coverage, while upgrading LTE1800 equipment to the latest version increased network capacity and ensured more stable connections in high-traffic areas. All works were completed within five months.
As a result of the network modernization in Kyiv:
coverage increased by 23%;
average download speeds rose by 29%;
latency decreased by 58%.
Thanks to network redesign and optimization, lifecell in Kyiv achieved a significant improvement in content access speed — signal latency was reduced from 43 to 25 milliseconds. This ensures faster network response for online gaming, video conferencing, streaming video, and other services.
lifecell will continue implementing its strategy of highly precise and efficient modernization in other regions of Ukraine, adapting solutions to the specifics of each locality. The company focuses on achieving maximum results with minimal resource strain, enabling rapid responses to the growing needs of Ukrainian users.
Serhii Tereshchuk, Chief Technology Officer, DVL Group
To ensure our subscribers receive high-quality connectivity right now, we moved away from the traditional ‘large multi-year projects’ approach and focused on rapid modernization targeting the actual needs of users. The results confirm that our chosen strategy was the right one
