Is 5G Technology Dangerous? — Pros and Cons of 5G Network
5G is a shorthand term that stands for the fifth generation of wireless cellular networks.
How does 5G work?
To make the explanation simple, 5G transmits tons of data over shorter distances than 4G LTE. This helps speed and consistency of connection signals and the network itself — even when in motion. The network is also able to support more devices due to the use of new signal spectrums. On top of all of this, energy-efficient tech allows less power to be used.
Why 5G?
While 4G LTE is powerful, we are quickly outgrowing this network as we push it to its limits. Current LTE networks are becoming overloaded in major cities, with regular slowdowns occurring at busier times. The rise of internet-connected “smart” gadgets will mean that we need a faster, higher-capacity system to support the billions of devices already in existence. With these and other perks, mobile data becomes cheaper, less power-hungry, and quicker to connect way more devices than we can today.
What is the Difference Between 4G and 5G?
There are a few notable differences that allow 5G to do things 4G LTE cannot.
Compared to 4G LTE, 5G brings the following benefits:
- 5G is faster than 4G with more bits-per-second able to travel the network. With the new upload and download speeds, you could be downloading movies in seconds versus minutes.
- 5G is more responsive than 4G with lower latency, which refers to the time taken for device-to-network communications. Since devices can “talk” to the network faster, you’ll get data more quickly.
- 5G uses less power than 4G since it can rapidly switch to low-energy use when cellular radios are not in use. This extends the device battery life to let devices stay unplugged for longer.
- 5G gives secure, fast service more reliably than 4G due to better use of bandwidth and more connection points. With less stress on the network, data costs can fall lower than 4G networks.
- 5G can carry more devices than 4G as it expands the available radio waves. Congestion issues that lead to slow service will be reduced once 5G steps in.
5G Pros and Cons
There are numerous pros of 5G network including:
- Faster Speeds
- Low Latency
- Increased Capacity
- More Bandwidth
- Powering Innovation
There are also some cons of 5G that businesses must consider including:
- Limited Global Coverage
- Decreased Broadcast Distance
- Upload Speeds
- Weakened Device Batteries
- Cyber Security
How You Should Prepare for 5G
5G is a bit further away than the buzz may have you believe, but you’ll still need to be prepared. Even though rollout will take a long time to be truly significant, some areas have seen upgrades start to pop up. Be sure to take security and privacy into your own hands as much as possible:
Install an anti-virus solution on all your devices. Products like Kaspersky Total Security will help prevent your devices from becoming infected.
Use a VPN to stop strangers from accessing your data without permission and spying on your online activity.
Practice strong password security. Always use passwords when available and make them incredibly strong. Long strings of random characters are considered the best passwords possible. Make sure you include uppercase, lowercase, symbols, and number as well.
Update the default backend passwords on all your IoT devices. Follow your device’s instructions on updating the “admin/password” style credentials of your gadgets. To find this information, consult with your manufacturer’s tech manuals or contact them directly.
Keep all your IoT devices updated with security patches. This includes your mobile phone, computers, all smart home devices, and even your car’s infotainment system. Remember, any device that connects to the internet, Bluetooth, or other data radio should have all the latest updates (apps, firmware, OS, etc.)
