Data deprioritization is the temporary slowing of your mobile data speeds during times of high network congestion. Unlike throttling, deprioritization is congestion-based and temporary, with your speeds returning to normal automatically once network traffic decreases in your area.
How This Applies to Vouch Mobile
As an MVNO on AT&T's network, Vouch Mobile users may experience deprioritization during periods of heavy network congestion. This is a standard practice across all carriers and MVNOs. However, deprioritization is relatively uncommon to experience in practice, and when it does occur, you'll still be able to browse, stream, and use apps, just at temporarily reduced speeds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deprioritization
Deprioritization is the temporary slowing of mobile data speeds during times of high network congestion. Unlike throttling, it's based on real-time network conditions and your speeds return to normal automatically once network traffic decreases.
No, they're different. Deprioritization is temporary and based on network congestion, with speeds recovering automatically. Throttling is permanent speed reduction after exceeding your data limit, lasting until your next billing cycle.
Deprioritization typically occurs during peak usage times: evenings (6-10 PM), weekends in crowded areas, major events or concerts, and holiday periods. It only happens when the network is congested in your specific location.
Deprioritization is based on real-time network conditions and affects all users fairly during congestion. While you can't prevent it entirely, you can avoid peak usage times if speed is critical for your activities.
Speeds may temporarily drop from 50 Mbps to 10-20 Mbps during congestion, but service typically remains usable for browsing, social media, and standard video streaming. Speeds recover automatically when congestion clears.