FirstNet is built in public-private partnership with the federal government to deliver public safety their own network following communications challenges during 9/11. Unlike commercial services like T-Mobile's T-Priority or Verizon Frontline, it provides first responders with truly dedicated coverage and capacity when and where they need it, offering unique benefits like always-on priority and preemption across 5G and 4G, and leveraging high-quality Band 14 spectrum. These advanced capabilities help fire, EMS and law enforcement save lives and protect their communities with unmatched reliability. In contrast, commercial networks do not have the government mandate or specialized infrastructure required to fully support public safety. They are built for the general public and can change their services at any time based on their own bottom line.

Unlike a slice of a commercial network, FirstNet is an entire 5G network built from the ground up to exclusively support all of America’s first responders and the essential services that support their missions. With a dedicated network core, exclusive spectrum, always-on priority and preemption, a dedicated fleet of deployable assets and security that goes well beyond standard commercial network security measures, first responders have reliable, uninterrupted access during emergencies. Network slicing, like T-Mobile’s T-Priority slice, is a virtual segment of their commercial network, which is built for the general population. Slices may face resource contention or performance variability, especially during high-demand situations. The dedicated FirstNet infrastructure offers unmatched reliability and security for mission-critical communications, while slicing remains an emerging technology better suited for non-critical use cases.

Reliability is critical in emergencies, which is why FirstNet prohibits throttling anywhere in the U.S. and delivers consistent access to vital information. In fact, FirstNet is the only provider mandated to never throttle speeds by the federal government.

Band 14 is nationwide, high-quality spectrum set aside by the federal government specifically for FirstNet. This dedicated spectrum further distinguishes America’s public safety network from commercial networks like T-Mobile and Verizon, which do not have spectrum dedicated to public safety. When commercial networks may become congested or fail, Band 14 provides dedicated, prioritized access for public safety to reliably communicate during emergencies. It is also the only spectrum in the U.S. that supports High-Power User Equipment (HPUE), delivering signals 6 times stronger than standard devices, enabling connectivity in challenging locations such as basements, elevators and rural areas. This vital resource helps ensure lifesaving operations stay connected when it matters most.