How Does 5G Work?

It is known that each new generation of the mobile network comes with something innovative and much better than the previous ones. However, have you ever wondered how this technology works? How is it possible that we can connect our cell phones to mobile data and navigate through the internet? Well, it is not magic. It is science and technological devices working together to let everyone that has a phone be able to connect to the networks.

Let’s see then how exactly the 5G network works, and some other useful information that everyone should know about mobile networks and phones. Continue reading and learn more:

How Does 5G Work?

The fifth-generation network (5G), operates using radio frequencies that can carry information through the air. This is not very different from how the 4G networks are; however, there are improvements in the network architecture. Firstly, information can travel now at a much faster rate than before. This fact, of course, makes the experience of connecting and navigating using 5G, much more enjoyable.

Secondly, it is known that physical objects can interfere with the signal and block it. Trees and buildings being the main reasons. However, the type and amount of antennae that the network uses can boost signals. These antennas will be working under something called massive MIMO. It stands for multiple input, multiple outputs.

Introducing this technology enables the network signal to reach much more places than the 4G. Besides, the capability of sending and receiving more data (as we mentioned before) at the same time, will also enable more users to stay connected without signal drops. All this is possible thanks to the multiple and smaller transmitters carefully placed around the cities.

As a reference fact, the 5G mobile network can have up to 1,000 more devices connected per meter at the same time, than its predecessor 4G. You can imagine now how advanced it is.

Although the 5G network is still very limited in terms of availability, it is for sure a great improvement in telecommunication systems. Other processes that have also improved such as cloud-based technologies and business process automation can create a synergy with the 5G network to provide the final user a greater experience. This can be not only faster but also flexible and easy to manage.

Advantages of the 5G Network over the 4G Network

Probably many people have asked themselves this question. You have heard a lot about the 5G network. In addition, you believe it could be a great improvement, from the network you are currently using. Well, if you are thinking of getting a new 5G device, here we want to list more reasons:

We know that this is obvious; however, we cannot take it for granted. The speed of the 5G network is very much faster than any other network technology. To give you a clearer idea with a number, the 4G network can reach speeds up to 100-300 Mbps; but on the other hand, the 5G network can reach up to 10-30 Gbps. Watching HD videos and downloading or uploading big files will not be a problem anymore. And what is better, you can do this everywhere you go, without worrying about relying on a Wi-Fi connection.

The latency consists of another important advantage. Latency is the delay or the time that takes information to be sent and received at its final destination. Let’s explain this with a simple example. Imagine you play an online game, with users from around the world. You make a movement in the game, but your character does not seem to move immediately, and when it does, it is too late.

It is an example of high latency. Of course, we want our information to be sent as soon as possible, which means being able to connect almost instantly with a remote server.

The 4G networks that exist nowadays have an average latency of around 50ms. However, the 5G technology can provide a latency of around 1ms. Taking into account that latency below 20ms is considered very well, you can imagine that 5G network provides a great deal.

Some industrial advances will be able to work more efficiently and securely thanks to 5G. Nowadays many tech companies are developing smart devices and technologies that can be afforded by reduced latency. Some examples are remote healthcare, holographic technologies, self-driving cars, which need the minimum of latency.

However, it is necessary to say that the 5G network is not available worldwide. Only developed countries have been able to install the equipment necessary to provide the service, and the most recognized operators are those with which you can purchase 5G plans.

5G Availability Around The World

Here is a list (non-alphabetical) of the countries where 5G networks were launched:

• The United States
• Canada
• Brazil
• Colombia
• Argentina
• Peru
• Spain
• Italy
• Portugal
• The United Kingdom
• Ireland
• France
• Germany
• Norway
• Sweden
• Finland
• Estonia
• Latvia
• Romania
• Czech Republic
• Austria
• United Arab Emirates
• Madagascar
• South Africa
• China
• Australia
• Indonesia
• Thailand
• Uzbekistan
• Japan
• Iran
• South Korea

Is not your country on the list? Do not worry, countries such as Mexico, India, Bolivia, and Mongolia have made investments to try to bring the 5G network technologies as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is 5G?

It is the fifth generation of mobile networks. It came with great advantages including a higher speed and lower latency.

How does 5G work?

It operates using radio frequencies and massive MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output), to enable the final user to get a greater experience.

Is 5G available worldwide?

No, it is not. It is available in North America, Europe, most countries in South America, and big countries such as China and Australia.

Is it a good idea to get a 5G device and plan?

Yes, it will provide you a better navigating experience than the one you are having with 4G.

We hope that this article has been useful for you to understand more deeply how 5G networks work. So the next time you connect to the 5G, you can easily know what to expect!