Passengers will get free wifi on Southeastern trains.
I called for this, and I'm really pleased we're getting it. I often use the commute between London and Kent to catch-up on work, and having internet access will make that so much easier and more productive. It'll also be great for people who like to catch-up on emails or social media while on the train.
Over the next few months, each and every train in Southeastern’s fleet – Metro, Mainline and High Speed – will be fitted with the system, which can be used across the network in Kent, Sussex and south-east London.
To access it, look for ‘Southeastern_WiFi’ in your available networks. There is no need to provide an email address. The WiFi will enable email without large attachments, surfing the internet, connectivity for smartphone and tablets and on-train stored content such as basic travel and timetable information.
There are one or two things to be aware of before going online:
- A daily free usage allowance of 50MB will be available to each user;
- The strength and speed of the Wi-Fi will be affected by the number of users at any one time and how it is being used. The WiFi isn’t designed for streaming films or TV programmes, and these should be downloaded at home.
- Many trains travel through tunnels or areas of limited connectivity where the Wi-Fi connection may be lost.
- Some lines, such as the Bromley North branch, the Isle of Sheppey branch and the Medway Valley line, will receive WiFi coverage in April 2018.
- A signal strength map is available on the Southeastern website at https://www.southeasternrailway.co.uk/travel-information/on-board/wifi, and a dedicated helpline number is available for technical queries on 0208 028 0393.
