The 5G network is well and truly upon us. As with its predecessors 3G and 4G, Telcos have long been anticipating the changes the 5G network will have to our already heavily connected world. An important thing to take into consideration is that the 5G network is primarily a mobile data network. Telstra is currently rolling out the first 5g devices in Australia, with Optus not far behind and Vodaphone to follow suit in 2020.

While 5G has come roaring onto the network scene, it will not replace 4G but rather, it will exist alongside it. Besides the hype surrounding the launch of the 5G network, there is also confusion about the practical impact the network will have on our everyday lives. Experts have heralded a new age in the way we interact with technology, so let’s take a look at the promises of the 5G network.

What Is 5G?

5G is commonly referred to as the fifth generation of mobile networks and is the latest technological development in the world of IoT (internet of things). It is the newest mobile wireless standard that’s main differentiator is speed. 5G is said to perform 30-60% faster than 4G, but this will ,of course, depend on the network’s availability. From high powered self-driving cars to innovative artificial intelligence, tech experts are anticipating big things from 5G. But how will 5G change or improve our everyday lives? 

Faster Network Speed

5G will facilitate faster download speeds and a decrease in lag times on our mobiles. Download speed could be as fast as 20Gbps which is astoundingly fast. Of course, these estimations do not take into consideration the individual configuration of the network and the number of devices on the network at any one time. Speed will be variant on these factors once 5G is rolled out extensively.

Longer Battery Life

If you’re someone who finds themselves constantly running out of battery, then 5G might be something that appeals to you. As the network uses less latency, devices connected to the network require less power to operate.

Simultaneous Connection

5G enables simultaneous connection across the network, allowing more devices than ever to connect. This development is one that will facilitate autonomous cars and connected machinery.

High-Quality Video

As the video continues to take over our streams, 5G is set to facilitate faster load times and the overall quality of video.

Despite the claims that 5G is set to take over wireless connection altogether, it’s important to consider the possible limitations the 5G network may encounter. While 5G has been configured to resolve much of the technical issues plaguing current digital infrastructure, it is still very much a work in progress and many of the operational problems are yet to be solved.

This extends to the security and privacy of the network, which still has significant issues to overcome. The most pressing security concerns actually stem some of the aspects that are considered benefits. The connected nature of 5G that will connect devices across the network, also poses a substantial security threat. The number of connected devices on the 5G network will create a landscape fit or exploitation and security challenges. In fact, Wipro released a cybersecurity report in 2018 outlining the security issues that will accompany 5G’s rollout. It outlines concerns that 5G will become a major target for cyber-attacks.

This heightens the need for more complex means of authentication and security measures. Our business continuity platform the Datto SIRIS 3 protects both physical and virtual environments, and as 5G is rolled out more extensively will be an integral component to keeping Australian businesses data and networks safe.

The emergence of 5G’s unmatched speed, may see some people begging the question, why would we continue to use our Wi-Fi networks when we can tether our phones to our laptops? But before forsaking our modems, first, contemplate the connectivity shortcomings of 5G. First and foremost, the 5G network comes with significant coverage downfalls. While 5G operates on a high radio frequency that enables speed and high volumes of data, it also limits the range and coverage of the network. 5G connectivity is much more likely to be compromised by buildings and trees, limiting its scope and accessibility especially to wide-ranging spaces like schools, hospitals and outdoor areas.

This lack of scope means that more cell towers must be built to facilitate network access. This raises the digital infrastructure costs of implementing 5G. Telecommunications companies are set to spend over $200 billion in building 5G infrastructure before 2025, meaning a flow-on expense for consumers in the form of higher operating, deployment and equipment costs.

While the imminent roll-out of 5G has been met with anticipation and excitement, it’s important to remain vigilant about the security and coverage issues that accompany it. While 5G remains a mobile device network, it cannot viably act as a Wi-Fi substitute in its current form. Here at Teksupport, we pride ourselves on providing flawless connectivity on the move. We manage the scope of the bandwidth to provide Wi-Fi solutions that connect the whole of your premise.

For innovative, effective and affordable connection solutions, contact of the IT experts at Teksupport on (03) 9590 0560.