After years of development, 5G is finally being offered by mobile carriers. In fact, it’s already active in some larger cities. That being said, many users don’t understand how it works, why it’s better than 4G, and when this wireless technology will be widely available. Here’s what you need to know. 

How 5G Works

5G is the newest generation of mobile broadband, and it will eventually replace 4G LTE. In addition to reduced latency when connecting to a network, 5G will improve upload and download times. 

It’s delivered via small cells, deep fiber assets, and radio wave holdings. Frequency bands will increase to around 38 GHz, which means latency will drop significantly. In other words, instead of your phone taking 50 to 150 milliseconds to connect to a network, it’ll only require around 10 milliseconds. 

5G vs. 4G

Under ideal conditions, 5G is nearly 20 times faster than 4G. In other words, a song that normally takes 10 minutes to download may only need 30 seconds. At a minimum, 5G offers 20 Gbps download speeds, while 4G provides 1 Gbps. In practice, the former can have 90 to 100 Mbps speeds.  

Keep in mind, however, that there are a variety of factors that can affect bandwidth (upload and download speeds), such as movement. For example, your cell connection may not be as powerful while you’re driving or riding a train.

Where Is 5G Available? 

Since this technology only launched on a mass-scale in 2019, it’s not readily available in every populated area. However, carriers are rapidly rolling it out to cities across the country. For example, it’s available in Miami, Orlando, and Jacksonville, FL.  

When you need 5G wireless services for your business, contact Telecom Consulting Group in Broward County, FL. They provide companies across the country with access to dozens of internet and cable providers. In addition to helping you choose options that meet your needs and budget, they’ll simplify wireless communications across your business, helping your employees become more productive and effective. Call (954) 776-5000 to speak to a team member, and visit their website to learn more about their services.