5G is the 5th generation cellular network. A fascinatingly cutting edge technology that will unleash speeds of around 20 gigabits per second on devices that are 600 times faster than the typical 4G speeds of today. It is fast enough to download 4K High Definition movies in under 20 seconds.
The next generation of the global telecommunications market continues to grow worldwide as the users are getting inclined towards simplified mobility and portability of wireless gadgets, autonomous vehicles, and especially the need of seamless streaming services – the 5G network can deliver high data speeds with faster connectivity, ultra-low data latency, greater bandwidth, and much better reliability. A uniform network that has been designed to virtually connect everyone and everything in the ecosystem of wireless communications.
How previous Generations of Mobile Networks were different from 5G
Every generation of mobile networks has tried to elevate the experience of network connectivity. 1G brought us the ability of voice sharing over cell phones. 2G enabled us to send and receive text messages. 3G connected the users online. 4G brought us the experience to enjoy fast connectivity to face time, stream, and communicate in real-time. With much faster connectivity, high data speeds, and remarkably better reliability, 5G will transform and advance the industries on every horizon.
From the faster deployment of mission-critical systems to connected vehicles for safer transportation to digitized productions along with seamless roaming, 5G will create different opportunities for people and businesses. It will surely help in creating a safer and sustainable future in the realms of communications.
How does 5G technology work?
The cutting edge 5G technology has been built on 5 brand new technologies:
- Millimeter Waves
- Small Cell
- Massive MIMO (multiple input, multiple outputs)
- Beamforming
- Full Duplex
The network architecture designed for 5G covers all the spectrum bands. Incorporating the new technology of “Massive MIMO,” the modern antennas will be handle to handle a huge influx of traffic coming in at once. However, if there is congestion then it will be crammed which means due to less bandwidth the connections are likely to drop. The “Millimeter Waves” can allow the signals to transmit on a whole new path. But moreover, the millimeter waves cannot travel through physical obstacles. For this reason, a new technology of “Small Cells” has been deployed that will create a dense network to receive signals from base stations and send them to different locations.
Furthermore, elevating the signal with the advanced traffic signaling “Beamforming” technology can identify the most efficient data route and reduce any kind of interference. In the end, the Full Duplex technology will allow the transceiver to transmit and send data at the same time, on the same frequency.
How is 5G better than 4G?
- 5G is significantly faster than the 4G network, delivering peak data speeds up to 20 Gigabits-per-second (Gbps).
- As more users are coming online, 4G networks have just reached the limits of what they are capable of at the time when users need more data for their devices. 5G has further expanded the capacity of a network which allows more traffic to come in and makes the networks much more efficient.
- 5G has outstandingly ultra-low data latency as compared to 4G networks. The real-time access for day-to-day activities, streaming services, and connectivity of gadgets will go down to 1 millisecond (ms) with 5G. A remarkable 10x decrease.
- 5G Network has been designed to create a unified platform for the operators and consumers. It will not only enhance or elevate the experience but will support fundamentally all-important time-sensitive critical systems such as e-health, vehicles, transport, augmented and virtual reality systems.
- According to the principles of physics, the shorter the frequency, the greater the bandwidth. The usage of spectrum bands ranging from 1 GHz to high bands knows as millimeter waves will amplify the aspects of connectivity.
Is 5G connectivity being used currently?
One of the most crucial features that make the 5G standout is the capability that it possesses to provide compatible and flexible support for the gadgets and services that are unknown today. Widely, the 5G network has been integrated with wireless services. The bands of spectrum that have already existed are becoming congested, slowing down the connectivity and leading to interruption in services.
- Mobile Networks:
To make our smartphones much more immersive, 5G networks can provide much more stable and reliable connectivity making the user deliver sensory experience and alluring remote events.
- Time Sensitive Communications:
Having extremely low data latency can be crucial in accessing the control on infrastructure. The fast response time can help in creating a safer and sustainable environment with faster deployment of models in real-time and smoothing responding in an emergency.
- Internet of Things:
The self-driving cars, control of transports, smart electricity grids, and the automation of day-to-day tasks in our homes are becoming a reality and more unknown things are coming ahead, thanks to 5G.
Has 5G been rolled out?
Yes, the 5G was rolled out in early 2019. All the major phone manufacturers are commercializing 5G phones and very soon, many more people will be able to access them. Right now, 5G is being deployed in 60+ countries. Consumers are very excited about the next big thing and imagining the implementations in various realms. For now, it is not universally available but the momentum to roll out is gathering pace at the moment.
The Future of 5G
5G will surely take us in the new era of connectivity and improved network performance. The consumers are excited for the next big thing to explore the opportunities that can transform the industries, make the future sustainable, and connectivity of thousands of devices, simultaneously. However, 5G goes beyond the benefits of speeds by providing the capability to work with the unknown. The demand for ultra-high response time can enable users to take advantage of proactive management to create safer, efficient, and sustainable systems.
