Cricket Wireless is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that operates on AT&T’s network. As an MVNO, Cricket Wireless does not have its own network infrastructure but instead leases network services from AT&T. This means that Cricket Wireless customers can enjoy the same coverage as AT&T customers, as AT&T’s network is used by Cricket.
AT&T is one of the largest and most established wireless carriers in the United States. They have invested heavily in their network infrastructure and offer extensive coverage across the country. According to AT&T’s coverage map, they currently cover around 68% of the country with 4G coverage.
This wide coverage means that Cricket Wireless customers can expect reliable service in most areas of the country. Whether you’re in a major city or a more rural location, you should have access to AT&T’s network and the coverage it provides.
However, it’s important to note that as an MVNO, Cricket Wireless customers may experience deprioritization of their data speeds in certain situations. This means that during times of network congestion, AT&T customers may be given priority over Cricket Wireless customers. In practical terms, this could result in slower data speeds for Cricket Wireless customers in crowded areas where there are many AT&T users.
It’s worth mentioning that the deprioritization of data speeds is a common practice among MVNOs, and it is implemented to ensure that the network resources are allocated efficiently. While this may be a consideration for some users, it is generally not a significant issue for most people’s day-to-day usage.
In my personal experience, I have found Cricket Wireless to provide reliable coverage in the areas I have traveled to. I have used Cricket Wireless in both urban and rural areas and have generally had a positive experience with their network.
To summarize, Cricket Wireless uses AT&T’s network, which provides extensive coverage across the United States. While data speeds may be deprioritized in crowded areas, the overall coverage and reliability of the network make Cricket Wireless a viable option for many users.