How Does 5G Work?

Wireless networks are made up of a multitude of cell sites which are maintained in sectors. They send data via radio waves. The foundation for 5G is fourth generation (4G) long-term evolution (LTE). 4G requires powerful, large cell towers to send signals at great distances.

5G Method of Transmission

Whereas 5G is transmitted using large numbers of small cells via much smaller cell stations located on the roofs of buildings and light poles. Many small cells are needed to effectively travel the 30 to 300 gigahertz (GHz) required for 5G to create high speeds effectively. Many factors can interfere with the transmission such as weather, buildings, or trees which hinder the path of the GHz.

Earlier wireless technology used lower frequency bands of the spectrum. In order to counter the problems of distance and interference in the wireless industry then lower frequency spectrum for 5G may be used by network operators who want to use the spectrum to effectively create their own various networks. The lower frequency spectrum can span great distances at low speeds and at a greater capacity than the mmWave.

How Fast is it?

The download speeds of 5G reach 1,000 megabits per second (Mbps) and on occasion up to 2.1 Gbps. Consider this, a YouTube video will successfully stream at 1080 quality using a 5G device with absolutely no slowdown. If you download an app or even a large Netflix show it will take minutes but with 5G it will take seconds.
  • Lowband 5G download speeds can reach up to 30 to 250 Mbps. It is available in rural areas typically.
  • Midband 5G download speeds can go from 100 to 900 Mbps. It works well in metro areas.

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Wireless networks are made up of a multitude of cell sites which are maintained in sectors. They send data via radio waves. The foundation for 5G is fourth generation (4G) long-term evolution (LTE). 4G requires powerful, large cell towers to send signals at great distances.