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5G rollouts have begun — so what does that mean for businesses? Here is a primer on what 5G is and how your business can prepare for it.
5G has been a subject of conversation for so long that it often feels like a rumor. At last, it appears to be arriving. Several cities in the US and abroad have finally had the opportunity to experience 5G, which means a larger scale rollout is on the way.
For business owners and IT specialists, the dawn of this next generation of wireless communication brings excitement and questions.
For those not familiar with 5G, the name refers to the fifth generation of wireless networking. The first version (1G) introduced analog voice, the second (2G) brought digital voice, 3G expanded data and 4G built on this with increased mobile internet. 5G promises to be even better by operating on three different spectrum bands (4G LTE does not have this capability):
- Low-band spectrum: Speeds up to 100Mbps
- Mid-band spectrum: Speeds up to 1Gbps
- High-band spectrum: Speeds up to 10Gbps.
As industries of all sizes await widespread arrival of 5G, it is essential to read up on what can be expected.
1. Faster download speeds
The major selling point of 5G is faster speeds, which are especially important when dealing with downloads. 4G has download speeds of about 20Mbps, while 5G will be able to reach an estimated 500 to 1500Mbps.
This is exciting for businesses and apps where lagging download speeds have negatively impacted operations in the past. 5G promises speeds that result in almost immediate downloads — an incredible feat that can enable a new type of instantaneous interaction.
2. Decreased latency
Latency refers to the time it takes a device to connect to a wireless network — though, to be more, specific it refers to how long it takes data to travel from point A to point B. Latency frustrates customers and creates inefficiencies for employees.
One of the hallmarks of 5G will be decreased latency. Devices should be able to connect to a 5G network in about a second. This also has the power to improve imagery on devices, increase automation for businesses, and create a safer world by connecting first responders and security professionals with the data they need at a faster rate.
3. Ability to connect more devices
Current 4G network capabilities can be restricted from a high volume of devices on the same network. Anyone who has ever been to a crowded sporting event, concert or festival has likely experienced lagging speeds and failed downloads as a result of too many devices on the same network. 5G aims to eliminate these woes by supporting approximately 1 million devices per 1/3 square mile.
Businesses operating in urban areas will especially feel the positive effects of this shift. With the proliferation of wireless devices used in personal and professional lives (smartphones, security cameras, etc.) 5G could not be coming at a better time.
4. Need for new equipment
The excitement of 5G also brings with it a need to prepare for the impending rollout. In addition to looking forward to the technological upgrades that come with the infrastructure of 5G, businesses should ensure that they have the right tools in place to get on board as soon as possible. This means purchasing equipment that is 5G compatible. Outdated — and in some cases even recently purchased — equipment may not be sufficient. Upgrading before the 5G rollout gives businesses time to purchase what is required and develop a 5G strategy that is customized to meet specific needs.
5. Training
Training should go hand-in-hand with buying and installing 5G compatible equipment. Businesses should not only take the time to outfit operations with the required equipment to support devices but also prioritize training staff members with the knowledge that comes to this exciting technological development.
Preparing for 5G with Unisol
5G is not widely available — yet. In March 2020, 5G launched in select US cities, such as Corvallis, and 21 cities in the UK. Locations all around the world can expect it to reach them sometime in 2020. This leaves precious little time to prepare, especially for those who have not yet begun to consider a 5G strategy.
Unisol International can help with these preparations. Unisol offers products and strategies and is able to ship items from an extensive online catalog anywhere in the world. Whether your 5G strategy includes electronic security upgrades, telecommunications equipment, or a custom solution, Unisol has the tools and the know-how to help. Contact Unisol to learn more.
