Going from 4G to 5G represents a quantum leap for humankind. It not only made our internet faster and allowed us to watch YouTube without a hitch, but it also introduced various other technological advancements. With 5G, we’re able to use smart cars, smart homes, and advanced medical equipment.
Although 4G was fantastic in its own right, it can’t compare to what we’ve got with 5G. This new wireless technology is far superior in terms of latency, speed, and overall tech support.
We have entire industries revolving around fifth-generation cellular network tech. If we were to somehow lose access to 5G, we would lose the incredible benefits and comfort that we have nowadays.
What is RAN?
RAN stands for Radio Access Network, and it is a common term in mobile communication. This key component is utilized as a bridge between the core network and users’ devices. For RAN to work as intended, it needs to rely on base stations, antennas, and other intrafstructural pieces.
You can easily surmise that both 4G networks and 5G networks utilize RAN for their basic operations. However, the underlying tech between the two differs significantly. Specifically, 5G RAN is much better in terms of its latency reduction, architecture, and spectrum use, supporting numerous use cases compared to the past mobile network iterations.
Transition From 4G to 5G
We were able to switch from 4G to 5G partially because we found a way to transform the elements of the past infrastructure. Here are a few notable architectural differences between the two:
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RAN (Radio Access Network)
Although 4G’s LTE was revolutionary for its time, it can’t compare with all the RAN solutions we use nowadays. 5G hinges on massive MIMO, mmWave, and beamforming, just to mention a few.
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Core Network
One of the main reasons why 5G is so powerful is the fact that it uses scalable, flexible core networks. Its NGC (Next Generation Core) and 5GC (5G Core) represent a quantum leap over 4G’s EPC (Evolved Packed Core) architecture.
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Spectrum
The reason why 5G has increased capacity compared to 4G is due to the fact that it utilizes mmWave and sub-6 GHz bands. Although 4G also relied on sub-6 GHz bands, we didn’t have access to mmWave back in the day.
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NFV and SDN
5G is also dominant over 4G due to its SDN and NFV. While 4G was rather basic in comparison, offering limited implementation, fifth-generation wireless networks provide much more automation and flexibility.
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IoT Use
With the introduction of 5G, we’re able to utilize all sorts of Internet of Things devices. 4G also supported this tech, but with noticeable limitations. On the other hand, 5G is perfect for IoT solutions due to its URLLC and LPWA networks.
Exploring the Main Differences Between 4G and 5G
By switching from 4G to 5G, we’re able to use lots of new technology. Here’s how fifth-generation cellular networks changed the world.
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Latency and Speed
Smart cars and other precision devices were made possible due to enormous enhancements to mobile networks’ latency and speed. When 4G was first introduced, it completely changed how we interacted with web content, as it offered downloads of up to 1 Gbps. This speed is now laughable, as 5G allows 10 Gbps downloads.
Back in the day, 4G gave us a latency of 30 to 50 milliseconds. This was good enough to watch YouTube videos uninterrupted and enjoy all sorts of streaming content. 5G further reduced latency, bringing it down to 1 millisecond. As a result, people are now able to perform surgeries remotely, utilize factory robots, and enjoy other benefits.
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Network Architecture
Among other things, 5G further improved already sophisticated 4G architecture. The new network technology ushered a significant shift from centralized to virtualized RAN. As a result, we now have access to unlimited customization. Providers are able to utilize virtual networks and network slicing to support the needs of various use cases.
Back in the day, 4G architecture used base stations that were placed in various locations. Each of them was responsible for its traffic, which made them great for general use cases. However, with the introduction of vRAN and O-RAN, we now have the ability to reduce costs while improving resource allocation.
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Frequency Capacity and Spectrum
As mentioned, 5G is also more potent in terms of frequency spectrum. By relying on mmWave frequencies, users can get much more capacity and speed. Unfortunately, this comes with a major caveat: you’ll lose range in the process.
Changes to spectrum and capacity are especially noticeable in large urban areas. They provide unobstructed traffic, no matter how many users are connected to a particular network. Faster data transfer is vital for smart cities, as well as concepts such as virtual and augmented reality.
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Connectivity and Density
Another notable thing about 5G is that it can connect to many more devices per square mile. This makes it essential in this day and age, when people use various smart machines in their homes. The tech supports smart city infrastructure, allowing all these cameras, sensors, and advanced systems to work in conjunction.
In comparison, 4G always struggled in large, crowded areas such as airports, shopping malls, and sports arenas. As the world continues changing, 5G will be vital for the development of massive megalopolises with millions of inhabitants.
4G to 5G: Last Thoughts
For better or worse, humankind has automated various daily processes. We go to work with smart cars, without ever touching the wheel. Doctors perform surgeries and other medical procedures without ever showing up to the office.
No matter what, we must remember that these innovations were only made possible through infrasctural improvements to cellular networks. Modern 5G solutions facilitate enormous traffic on a small geographical surface. Regardless of your needs, you will no longer have to worry about latency issues and slow downloads.
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