BIPT updates guidelines for multi-operator indoor coverage (M-O DAS)

The updates to the guidelines are more than a simple refresh. They introduce several important changes that reflect today’s connectivity needs and point towards future developments in indoor coverage.

Key changes in the updated guidelines

• 5G integration: The guidelines now fully reflect 5G requirements, ensuring that new systems are future-proof.
• ASTRID obligations: While organisations cannot apply through the portal for ASTRID coverage, the guidelines now refer to ASTRID’s own site, making readers aware of possible additional obligations for Belgium’s emergency communication network.
• Clearer responsibilities: Roles for DAS owners, promoters, contractors, operators and ASTRID are more clearly defined, improving collaboration and accountability.
• Emphasis on maintenance: The importance of proper system upkeep is reinforced. Operators had pushed for mandatory maintenance contracts, but this was resisted, as most large organisations already manage maintenance effectively.

In Beltug’s opinion, the updates don’t focus enough on future technological advances such as active DAS or neutral hosting. However, discussions have begun, and a public consultation on neutral hosting took place in September 2025.

The updated portal

BIPT serves as the single point of contact for both the guidelines and the portal. The now-updated portal is intended to facilitate coordination for organisations considering installing an M-O DAS early on, in the conceptual pre-design phase. It is intended for people and organisations designing buildings and those considering whether to put such a system in place.

On the portal, they can

• make a first conceptual evaluation of the technical feasibility of an M-O DAS
• explore the operators’ interest in sharing the DAS
• get a first, ‘rough’ cost estimation

Beltug will continue to monitor the M-O DAS file and raise the issue of indoor coverage in our discussions with the BIPT. We are committed to ensuring that the voice of business users is heard in these conversations. For example, our dedicated events on indoor coverage in May and September 2025, offered Beltug members the opportunity to bring their questions directly to ASTRID representatives.