Unless you have been entirely off the grid for the past three years, it has been nearly impossible to miss the hype surrounding the introduction of 5G technology. In this case, the buzz might be justified. Experts might disagree on the details, but there is a growing consensus that 5G will transform how people and enterprises share, store and secure their data. But as usual, hype tends to obscure the facts. Look below for some simple answers to basic questions you might have about 5G – what it is, how it was developed, and most important of all, what it means for your business.
What does the term “5G” stand for?
The term “5G” simply means the fifth generation of mobile data transmission technology.
The family tree dates back to the 1G analog technology introduced in 1980 at the of the mobile phone age. 2G came along in 1991, enabling the first SMS text messages. 3G followed in 2001, using a network of cellular towers to transmit data – a significant advance for the time. 4G was introduced in 2011, providing even greater data transmission speed and capabilities, effectively turning your mobile phone into a smart phone – a hand-held computer able to access a rapidly increasing number of online applications from high-definition mobile TV to gaming. Planning for 5G began in 2019, with the full rollout happening in 2022.
How much faster is 5G compared with 4G?
According to the Federal Communications Commission, “some 5G services will provide coverage areas with data speeds up to 100 times faster” than 4G. Consider this – the first commercially available automobiles in the early years of the 20th Century had top speeds around 20 mph. The fastest passenger car on the market today – the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport – tops out at about 300 mph. That is certainly an impressive record, but if vehicle technology had advanced at the same pace as data transmission technology, we would have cars capable of 2,000 mph today. Fasten your seat belts.
When will 5G be available?
In many areas, 5G is available now. Major network providers began introducing their 5G services in January, 2022.
Isn’t 5G just about smart phones?
While 5G is largely associated with mobile networks, the FCC expects the great leap in connectivity made possible by 5G technology to transform a wide variety of applications – from telemedicine and real-time analytics to augmented reality, virtual reality driverless cars and even smart wearables. The question really isn’t, “Will 5G impact my business?” Yes, it definitely will. The question should be, “How can 5G help transform or build my business?” Contact us at 1623 Farnam and we will help you maximize your 5G opportunities.
Exactly what does 5G mean for my enterprise?
Think of your current data network – no matter how fast it is – as a trickle from a leaky garden faucet compared to a 5G firehose. When you add 5G’s breathtaking speeds and almost instantaneous download capabilities with other emerging technologies such as edge computing, augmented reality and the Internet of Things, your business will have access to applications that seemed like science fiction just a few short years ago.
Will my current network be able to handle the transformation?
To maximize the opportunities provided by 5G’s almost limitless potential, your network will require greater connectivity, as well as more robust levels of performance and low latency in data transmission. To truly get the most out of 5G, you should also think about updating your data management strategies as well as your equipment.
Where can I learn more?
At 1623 Farnam, we can help you with your 5G transformation. Contact us as 1623 Farnam Contact Us | Your Interconnected Edge Data Center and we’ll help you separate the 5G facts from the hype.