5G is the fifth generation of Mobile Network Technology.
Mobile Network Technology has progressed from having a pocket device that we used in making and receiving calls from (almost) anywhere (1G), to being able to send a text message instead of calling (2G), to having access to the internet wherever and whenever through our cell phones (3G), our daily surfing of the internet through smartphones (4G) and now 5G.
5G has been designed to significantly increase the speed and responsiveness of wireless networks. It delivers about 20 gigabits per second (Gbps). This speed exceeds wireline network speeds and offers latency of 1 millisecond (ms) or lower. 5G supports up to a million devices per square kilometer, while 4G supports only one-tenth of that capacity.
5G networks and services starting in 2019 will be released in phases in the following years to adapt to the increasing dependence on mobile devices.
Understanding Mobile Network Technology
Wireless networks are made up of cell sites distributed into small geographical areas that send data through radio waves.
4G LTE: Fourth Generation Long Term Evolution uses high, large power cell towers to radiate signals over long distances. It provides a foundation for 5G.
5G: Transmits wireless signals through multiple small cell stations, usually located in poles and building roofs. Its millimeter-wave (MM wave) spectrum uses various small cells. The band spectrum, between 30 and 300 gigahertz that 5G relies on to generate high speeds, travels only over short spaces and is subject to interference from weather and physical obstacles, like buildings or trees.
Benefits Of 5G
- Greater transmission Speed- 5G network is said to process the download of movies, music, videos 20 times faster compared to 4G (from 200 Mbps (4G) to 10 Gbps (5G). Also, It reduces latency (response time between devices). These speeds will maximize the browsing experience.
- A higher number of connected devices- The 5G network allows a super-interconnected environment, thus creating the possibility of having the much-desired “smart cities.”
- IOT Compatibility- 5G technology is perfect for connecting with various devices, like drones, sensors, cameras. It powers IoT adoption, allowing industries to enhance their productivity and other things, thus powering innovation.
- Wider bandwidth – 5G provides more bandwidth to aid speedy data transfer.
Disadvantages Of 5G
- Obsolescence. 5G requires devices that can support it; current 4G devices do not have the capability and will become obsolete once 5G networks are universally accessible.
- Cybersecurity 5G will result in hacking. The expansion in the bandwidth might allow criminals to steal the database with ease. Moreover, it uses software that leads to vulnerable attacks. As 5G connects with more devices, the chances of attacks are set to increase.
- Weakened device batteries –5G connection will result in a huge battery drain that will reduce the lifespan of phones in the long run. Hence, Phone manufacturers need to invest in new battery technologies to adapt to 5G.
5G Myths Debunked
5G Causes Cancer – Rumour has it that 5G causes cancer through radiation. Basically, There are two types of radiation: ionizing radiation and non-ionizing radiation. Ionizing radiation is said to kill people, while non-ionizing radiation doesn’t. 5G network is transmitted over non-ionizing radio waves. Also, 5G technology falls within the current Federal Communications Commission (FCC) exposure guidelines, stating that people can be exposed to radiation between 300 kilohertz and 100 GHz. Presently, 5G spans between 25.250 GHz and less than 100 GHz.
5G is linked to COVID-19– Several arguments have risen, relating 5G to the spread of the coronavirus. The most popular proposes that 5G networks emit radiation that weakens the immune system, thus making humans more susceptible to COVID-19.
However, 5G is in no way linked to COVID-19. The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection urges no link exists between 5G and the coronavirus. The ICNIRP is a group of independent scientific experts who study how exposure to electromagnetic fields used by mobile phones and other devices affects human health.
Why Nigeria Needs 5G
Nigeria stands to gain substantial socio-economic development and benefits from the deployment of 5G Networks. 5G will revolutionize and transform the Nigerian way of life. From the agricultural sector to the education sector, entertainment, and even businesses.
On Education, virtual learning would significantly increase through the availability of a fast wireless network, thus promoting unconventional learning experiences, like hosting a guest speaker via hologram or tutoring students virtually in real-time.
5G can transform our healthcare sector through Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to diagnose and offer healthcare services from anywhere in the world.
5G is also an essential platform for the Internet of Things (IoT), with the rapid increase in the number of devices that collect, transmit and share data via the internet. This will support businesses’ innovative ambitions and create new markets, transforming supply chain management and creating more innovative, efficient manufacturing.
Additionally, 5G is engineered to facilitate a wealth of new applications for wireless technologies worldwide.
Challenges To 5G Adaption In Nigeria
- Lack of Constant Electricity
- Lack of adequate infrastructure
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Photo Credit- Guardian News
