Learn the key differences between 4G vs. 5G networks
In a perfect world, each generation improves upon the best qualities of its predecessors and thrives in ways previous generations couldn't. In a way, new generations respond to the issues created by older generations.
This is particularly relevant for generations of mobile networking and cellular technology. In the case of fourth-generation wireless vs. fifth-generation wireless, 5G aims to not only surpass 4G capabilities, but meet and exceed 4G's goals for general speeds, latency and density.
The 4G era saw the innovation of various networking trends, such as IoT growth, increasing numbers of smartphones, and remote and mobile workforces. These trends advanced immensely throughout the 2010s, creating a need to support faster speeds and greater cell density. Enter 5G, which many pundits hope will address the issues 4G introduced.
Before organizations jump on the 5G bandwagon, however, they must understand the differences between 4G vs. 5G network architectures and determine how both architectures could affect business operations. This feature dives deep into those differences and discusses what these key differentiators mean for organizations globally.
Defining the differences among LTE, 4G and 5G
4G
Fourth-generation wireless is 5G's predecessor and the fourth generation of mobile network technology. In the 2010s, 4G reigned as the latest, most innovative generation of cellular technology and reached ubiquity within the decade. Some of 4G's promises included enhanced cell density, improved VoIP capabilities and greater bandwidth.
LTE
Long-Term Evolution was developed as a 4G standard during 4G's reign. LTE is the golden, global standard for wireless broadband and sets the foundation for 5G networks. Both 4G and LTE support various traffic types, something previous generations struggled to do and which 5G must now improve upon.
5G
Fifth-generation wireless is the latest generation of cellular network technology. Small, early deployments began in the late 2010s, but 5G will not reach ubiquity until the mid-2020s. Touted benefits of 5G include faster network speeds and real-time communication capabilities.
How does 5G work?
5G comes with various new features and capabilities, including network slicing, orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) and massive multiple input, multiple output.
5G also introduces another new standard called 5G New Radio (NR) that aims to replace LTE. 5G NR will build off LTE's best capabilities and bring new benefits, such as increased energy savings for connected devices and enhanced connectivity.
In addition, 5G can operate on a new frequency spectrum -- millimeter wave (MM wave) -- which operates on wavelengths between 30 GHz and 300 GHz, compared to 4G LTE's wavelengths of under 6 GHz. Due to the MM wave spectrum, 5G requires new small cell base stations to operate and function.
The key differences between 4G vs. 5G network architecture include the following:
latency
potential download speeds
base stations
OFDM encoding
cell density
