How Vivo extended its 4G service to Brazil’s Fernando de Noronha archipelago

In 2017, VIVO, the leading Brazilian mobile phone company owned by Telefonica, was looking to extend its 4G network to the Fernando de Noronha archipelago, one of Brazil’s most popular tourist destinations. The islands’ distance from the mainland (350 km) and very low population density made it difficult and costly to connect via traditional networks. They had however been facing growing demand for connectivity from researchers and tourists visiting this World Heritage Site.

Telefonica International Wholesale Services (TIWS) had already been working with Eutelsat do Brasil, a subsidiary of Eutelsat Communications, for several years, taking advantage of EUTELSAT 8 West B’s Ku-band coverage of Brazil to provide connectivity for schools, corporate networks, and cellular backhaul services. The satellite’s unique coverage of the archipelago made it the obvious choice when seeking to connect the islands in 4G.

“EUTELSAT 8 West B’s robust and efficient coverage has allowed us to provide the much needed connectivity required in the Noronha archipelago for tourism and for valued conservation work,” mentions Rodrigo Campos, Director of Brazil at Eutelsat. “We feel proud about this project and the benefits our relationship with VIVO, TIWS and Telefónica are bringing to the islands.”

Through EUTELSAT 8 West B’s unique Ku-band coverage, the mobile phone operator has been able to establish a high efficiency satellite link connecting the Brazilian archipelago to its master station in the São Paulo province, providing a high availability connection.

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