Networks are at the core of ICT business providing connectivity and services such as voice, messaging and broadband for customers. We are now embarking on the next generation mobile platform, 5G, which has been coined a General Purpose Technology. New and innovative technologies such as Internet of Things, Virtualization and Cloud, millimeter wave radio networks, massive MIMO etc. are all central in 5G. Check out the basic Q&A below to learn more about 5G technology, business opportunity for ICT service providers, as well as the IoT's many technology aspects.
5G EXPLAINED
What is 5G? What is 5G Technology ? 5g vs 4g
5G is the next generation mobile network, introducing new radio and core network solutions. Leveraging much on the existing 4G network, but it will secure the further capacity for mobile broadband, supporting IoT and addressing new areas for industry and public services. New spectrum will allow for significantly increased capacity (& speed) and new architecture will allow for very low latency.
Who is 5G for?
5G will, to a large extent, address today's mobile services, both data and voice, but 5G will also address new areas, serving the society services like e-health, public safety and different industry needs
What will change with 5G?
The change with 5G is a much wider support for new services and areas for mobile connectivity, and a smart adaption for the different needs/requirements.
What’s the plan for 5G launch?
Leading ICT Service providers are going to run piloting activities around several use cases and locations to gain experience. As for 4G, ICT companies will start building 5G coverage in order to hold the best network position and start working to introduce 5G for new areas – such as e-health, public safety and industry.
What are some key beliefs when it comes to 5G?
- 5G is the most investment efficient way to meet the capacity growth
- 5G is a prerequisite for delivering new services and verticals in the future, e.g. emergency network services 5G will complement Fiber, and will support Cu decommissioning
- In order to fully utilize the commercial potential of new 5G capabilities, there is a need to be first.
5G Transport Network
Transport networks are the crux of the Internet and fundamental for all network services in a future of cloud, virtualization and 5G. A little mentioned fact about mobile networks is that most of their infrastructure is a fixed network. The transport network is what provides connectivity between the cell sites and the mobile core sites and further on to the Internet.
The global teams of transport networking experts are in a joint effort together with focus on how to build transport network efficiently for 5G. More fiber will be needed to carry the increased traffic load between the radio network and the mobile core. 5G networks have very strict timing requirements which will have to be provided by the transport network. In addition, automation solutions for the transport network services must be in place to cater for the 5G use-cases that envision a very high dynamics of delivering network services.
