Network Service and Availability

How to Implement

Guidance

Apply minimum network availability and quality standards.

The Scheme should establish and require minimum service levels for the network (i.e., the Scheme) and internet quality requirements for DFSPs. Defining minimum requirements for DFSP internet providers helps ensure instant payment evenly reaches end users in varied domestic zones. Similarly, DFSPs should reasonably expect that the Inclusive IPS maintains high availability of the network itself. Reporting of metrics on this availability should be regular, monthly, and publicly available.

Persist despite network connectivity challenges.

The Scheme should consider that certain areas of the country may face persistent internet availability or quality problems and contribute to potential solution(s) to overcome these challenges. However, these challenges should not prevent progress in implementation and should encourage continued evolution and improvements as the quality challenges are addressed by the ecosystem. Ecosystem efforts that could be undertaken include establishment of connectivity hubs to facilitate access to electricity, network and internet in communities where these services are not reliably present.

Why It Matters

This ensures that users, especially those in rural and remote areas, can access the Inclusive IPS anytime they need, making digital payments useful and dependable for everyday transactions and financial needs.

Seeing More Clearly

Select a lens to learn the “why” this practice.

Women’s Inclusion

Women in rural areas are especially prone to exclusion due to low connectivity. Often unable or less able to travel to better-connected areas, they are left with fewer digital options if they live in an area without reliable connectivity. Connectivity issues are often highlighted as a top barrier to women using digital financial services.