What is 5G ? Definition, advantages and drawbacks

5G is the fifth generation of wireless cellular technology, offering higher upload and download speeds, more consistent connections, and improved capacity compared to previous networks, also known as “the new standard in mobile networks.” This network succeeds 4G with far superior performance. Designed to meet growing connectivity needs, 5G is aimed at both individuals and businesses. With faster downloads and data streaming, it optimizes communications and paves the way for the use of artificial intelligence and IoT applications that were previously unheard of, if not impossible.

Compared to previous generations, 5G uses higher radio frequencies and incorporates innovations such as MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output). It therefore offers a smoother and faster connection.

How does 5G work?

The demand for internet access, combined with the emergence of new technologies such as AI, IoT, and automation, is leading to a massive increase in the amount of data being created. Existing mobile networks are not designed to adequately meet these demands. As a result, 5G relies on cutting-edge technologies to improve network speed, capacity, and responsiveness. Unlike 4G, it uses millimeter waves (between 24 GHz and 100 GHz), which offer greater bandwidth. However, these waves require closely spaced antennas for optimal coverage.

5G uses key technologies such as millimeter waves which are frequencies that allow for higher data rates, essential for optimal download speeds. It also uses multiple antennas to send and receive data simultaneously, increasing connection capacity (massive MIMO ). Finally, 5G uses a wide range of miniature antennas to provide consistent coverage, even in dense urban areas (Small Cells).

What you need to know about 5G

Does 5G replace 4G?

No, 5G does not completely replace 4G. The two technologies coexist to ensure continuous coverage, particularly in less densely populated areas. Although digital technology has advanced significantly, people are struggling to keep up with disparities in mobile coverage across different regions.

How fast can 5G get?

5G can reach download speeds of up to 10 Gbps, which is about 100 times faster than 4G. It offers low latency of up to 1 millisecond and very high availability.

Which devices are compatible with 5G?

Recent smartphones, connected objects, and certain industrial devices are compatible with 5G. Manufacturers are gradually integrating this technology into their new models.

Is 5G available everywhere?

The rollout of 5G has been underway in many countries since 2020, but coverage varies by region. It is being implemented first in large urban areas, before being extended to rural areas.

5G boosted by local data centers

5G requires a robust infrastructure to guarantee high speeds and low latency. Local data centers, or “edge data centers,” bring data processing closer to users. At UltraEdge, we understand the challenges posed by the evolution of digital uses, which is why we have set up several edge data centers to better meet demand.

Thanks to this proximity, information can be transmitted more quickly, reducing response times for real-time applications such as autonomous vehicles and augmented reality.

These decentralized data centers (“Edge Data Centers”) also make it possible to better manage the volume of data generated by 5G. They thus prevent large centers from becoming overloaded. By combining the power of 5G with local data centers such as those of UltraEdge, it is possible to create an optimized technological ecosystem for faster and more reliable services.