Support Center

Initially, no. Eventually, yes! Currently, half of our 300+ sites have some form of 5G on them.

The biggest benefit is greater data capacity. That means 5G can handle more people using data at the same time without slowing down. In places where crowds gather — like schools, sporting events, concerts, festivals, and busy downtown areas — you’ll notice smoother streaming, faster browsing, and a more reliable connection compared to 4G alone.

Not exactly. 5G enhances data performance, not voice coverage. All voice calls are still carried over our 4G LTE network. If you’re on 5G and make a call, your phone will automatically switch back to LTE/4G for voice service.

As for coverage, the reach (or “footprint”) of 5G is very similar to 4G. The main difference you’ll notice with 5G is faster data speeds and better performance in high-traffic areas, rather than stronger signal bars.

Your 5G experience depends on the type of signal in your area. In rural regions, where towers serve fewer people, 4G and 5G speeds may look alike. On low-band 5G, speeds can reach about 120 Mbps. In bigger cities across our region, mid-band 5G can deliver much faster speeds — up to 400 Mbps when conditions are right.

Your phone will still connect on our 4G LTE network, which remains strong and reliable.

-To take full advantage of 5G, you’ll need a compatible device.
-Upgrade options are available — check our latest promotions or stop by a store.

Every upgrade to 5G not only gives that customer faster speeds, it also frees up space on our 4G network — making data performance better for customers who aren’t on 5G yet.

There are a few things to double-check:

Coverage – Make sure you’re in an area with 5G service. While many of our towers are 5G-enabled, some locations are still being upgraded.

Settings – Confirm that 5G is turned on in your phone’s network settings:

-iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data Options → Voice & Data → 5G Standalone → Toggle ON
-Samsung Galaxy: Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Allow 5G service → ON

If you’ve checked both coverage and settings and still don’t see 5G, restart your device or contact Appalachian Wireless Customer Care for help.

No! 4G still carries all the voice traffic on our network and will for the foreseeable future. 4G/LTE still has a lot of time left in its life cycle.

The experience should be the same when you travel outside our area. This will not impact the roaming experience you are used to with our service.

5G can only be seen and used by Appalachian Wireless customers.