August 16th, 2023 | Best Practices in Telecom Management
In the rapidly evolving world of technology, the 5th Generation of cellular networks, better known as 5G, has gained prominence as a potential revolutionary force. But what lies behind this term, and does it genuinely match the excitement surrounding it?
Think of 5G as the next chapter in cellular technology’s evolution. As we’ve transitioned from 3G to 4G, each iteration brought notable improvements. Yet, 5G isn’t just another step forward; it’s an outright paradigm shift. Comparable to how 4G revolutionized media streaming and swift data access, 5G introduces capabilities that seemed unthinkable until now. The magic key to unlocking 5G’s potential is its ultra-low latency, meaning data transmission occurs almost instantly to a vast array of devices simultaneously over expansive areas.
Globally, the projected capital expenditure for deploying 5G networks between 2020 and 2025 is an astonishing $1.1Trillion. This sizeable investment covers various aspects such as establishing and maintaining the intricate 5G infrastructure. There is a lot of money being invested, but is the investment happening in your neighborhood? Also, keep in mind, not all existing devices are 5G-compatible. Therefore, businesses that wish to take advantage of 5G capabilities need to understand their market and their devices or face compatibility issues between legacy systems and new technologies.
5G, like its predecessors, is still a cellular technology. This means that in areas with a high number of users and devices accessing the network simultaneously, there can be congestion and reduced speeds. The term “over-subscription” refers to situations where the demand for network capacity exceeds the available capacity, resulting in potential slowdowns during peak usage times. This is an important to be aware of, particularly for businesses that require consistent and reliable connectivity. Another potential consideration of 5G is the prioritization of service. Some carriers offer priority traffic options, such as FirstNet for emergency services. While this prioritization can enhance the reliability for essential services, it also raises questions about how non-priority traffic might be affected during peak usage or emergencies. Businesses relying on 5G as their primary connection need to understand how these priority systems could impact their operations.
The question many people are asking themselves is whether 5G is a niche or a necessity. Answering this will require assessing 5G’s benefits for specific use cases. 5G isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The choice to embrace 5G should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of your organizational requirements, future strategies and financial considerations.
While it undeniably holds immense potential, its true power emerges when wielded judiciously. When partnering with IQ Wired, we help you navigate the complexities of 5G, ensuring that you weigh the gains, gaps, and potential impact to align with your unique objectives. Embrace the transformative potential of 5G but remember that its true value lies in appropriate design and an astute implementation.