5G – The New-Age Networking Technology

5G technology, even before being commercialized, has gained popularity as the next evolution in the networking technology. The introduction of 5G services has generated disruptive potential in almost every industry that leverages Internet of Things (IoT), Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), automation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), etc. With the worldwide adoption of 5G technology, the number of IoT devices is estimated to reach 70 billion by 2025. End-user industry verticals will be in a better position to introduce groundbreaking technologies with the help of the latest wireless technology.

Although the technology is already in use for multiple applications and more are in the pipeline, it can be said that the potential of the technology is still untapped. In near future, proliferating applications are expected to be witnessed with the continuous development in technologies such as IoT, IIoT, AI, etc. The technology is anticipated to revolutionize enterprise networking and simplify critical communications. These are just few of the initial benefits assessed to be driven by the potential of the technology. In the near future, 5G can actually aid in finding solutions to every problem associated with the functioning of the organization.

 4G Technology vs. 5G Technology

Well, the myth that 5G technology can pull off tasks at a lighting speed is partly untrue. 5G NR-speed is actually only slightly higher than that of 4G. However, the benefits of 5G can be attributed to its capacity of supporting up to a million devices per square kilometer, up from 100,000 devices capacity of 4G. Also, the network latency will be reduced from 30 ms in 4G to 1 ms in 5G.

Enterprises are seen to rely on networking technologies for optimum efficiency. The demand for ultra-low latency devices and seamless connection between connected devices is the driving factor of the popularity of 5G over 4G services.

Delay in 5G Network Infrastructure

5G network has been the talk of the industries since late 2018, but, it is yet to be commercialized on the global front. It is because of the uniqueness of 5G network implementation that demands a complete overhaul of the infrastructure. Unlike 3G and 4G services, the current communication technology infrastructure is not at a place to support the distribution of 5G services. This remains a major impediment to the growing popularity of the technology.

5G Trade War between China and the U.S.

Investments by two of the largest economies – the U.S. and China – has increased over time in the development of the network infrastructure. It can be attributed to the rising conflicts between the two nations over 5G infrastructure and nations’ security. The U.S. has accused Huawei and ZTE of giving away sensitive information to Chinese government. Thus, it has called for nations to ban these companies. However, by now, only Japan and Australia have sided with the U.S. and other allies chose to stay neutral. Well, the point is, Huawei has a prominent share of the infrastructure. Now the repercussions of the trade war are that –

• The U.S. will be funding European alternatives such as Nokia and Ericsson.
• China has increased investment in 5G network infrastructure and has announced that it will be launching the services ahead of its time.

In any case, one thing has become clear; the 5G network industry will revolutionize the way the industries function.