Suffolk is about to get faster.

AT&T has announced an extension of its 3G network — the nation’s fastest, according to recent data compiled by leading independent wireless research firms — to expand the existing mobile broadband to new areas in Suffolk, including Harbour View.

“AT&T’s expansion in this area will provide more wireless options for residents to communicate with their families and friends and for companies to do business with their customers,” Delegate Kenny Alexander (D-89) said in a press release from AT&T.

According to the release, AT&T also plans additional 3G deployments in the Chesapeake area near Battlefield Boulevard, in new areas of Suffolk and along Highway 168 to the North Carolina border.

“Our ongoing investments in Virginia will help us ensure that our state has access to the advanced wireless broadband services that help drive economic growth,” J. Michael Schweder, president of AT&T Mid-Atlantic Region, said in a release.

This new 3G network will allow customers to surf the Web, download files and use the latest interactive mobile applications, such as live video sharing and remote home monitoring, faster than ever.

“Demand is growing for services such as sharing videos and photos with friends, watching a movie, checking the latest scores, or listening to music on a mobile device or laptop computer while on the go,” Erika K. Thompson, vice president and general manager of AT&T in Virginia and West Virginia, said in a release. “We continue to enhance and expand the network to deliver unmatched voice and high-speed data coverage, top-quality service and unsurpassed reliability for our customers.”

Calls to AT&T representatives were not returned by press time Wednesday night.

For more information about AT&T’s 3G coverage in Virginia or anywhere in the United States, consumers can go to www.wireless.att.com/coverageviewer/. The online tool can measure the quality of coverage based on a street address, intersection, ZIP code or even a landmark. Additionally, customers can call the AT&T location in North Suffolk, located off Bridge Road, at 638-7876.