The evolution of Instant Network Emergency Response

Since its launch in 2012, Instant Network Emergency Response (INER) has transformed how we connect people in crisis. From floods, to earthquakes, hurricanes and more, when emergency strikes, Vodafone Foundation deploys highly trained volunteers to restore vital connectivity for aid agencies, search and rescue teams, survivors and refugees.

It all began with a portable 2G network, first tested after a typhoon in the Philippines. The success proved that mobile networks could be rapidly deployed in disaster zones to reconnect communities.

As smartphones became more common, INER evolved. Vodafone volunteers in Hungary rose to the challenge and developed a 3G and 4G solution that could support apps like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, allowing people to contact loved ones to let them know they were alive and safe. However, timely deployment of this approach was often difficult due to technical and legal challenges.

That changed in 2017 with the introduction of Instant Wi-Fi kits. These are compact, easy to use, not subject to as many legal restrictions, and, importantly they are also extremely fast to deploy. Unlike earlier systems that took over a day to set up, these kits can be operational in minutes, even in remote areas. The first 72 hours after a disaster are critical, and this speed has been a game-changer.

More recently, additional breakthroughs have come in the form of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites like Starlink. In countries where these satellites are licensed, they offer fast, more affordable internet access almost anywhere on Earth. And the future looks even brighter. Technologies like AST SpaceMobile are working on direct satellite-to-phone calls, promising seamless global coverage even when ground networks are down.

But it’s not just about the tech. The backbone of INER is the people. Vodafone volunteers have been involved from the start – developing the technology, deploying to emergencies, deepening their expertise with each mission, and using this knowledge to iterate the programme as society and technology advances. This support is something that we at Vodafone Foundation have never taken for granted and continue to be extremely appreciative of.

Today INER is not only about response but also building resilience. We will always be here to respond when emergencies strike, but the technology has now advanced to allow us to use what we have learnt to help build preparedness and resilience.

For example, in Saint Martin in the Caribbean we worked with the local Red Cross to deliver and train the teams on three instant Wi-Fi kits. Now, if a crisis such as a hurricane hits, they will be able to instantly deploy the kits and respond.

By training communities to set up and manage their own emergency networks, the programme is building resilience from the ground up. This proactive approach not only speeds up response times but also empowers people to take charge of their own response when it matters most.

No matter how the technology evolve, one thing remains the same - when an emergency hits, people need to connect to save lives, rebuild communities and let their loved ones know that they are safe. And Vodafone Foundation will be there - using technology to connect for good.