Originally Posted On: https://www.earthlink.net/blog/what-is-5g/

What is 5G?

Summary: 5G is the latest type of mobile network, and the coverage is expanding. Learn what makes 5G different than 4G LTE, how fast 5G really is, and how you’ll benefit from a faster mobile phone connection.

If you’re tuned into the tech world — or have recently considered upgrading your cell phone — you’ve probably heard of 5G. But what is it?

Simply put, 5G is the latest evolution of wireless technology, and it’s going to bring faster downloads and lower lag times. 5G phones initially used 4G networks, and even as 5G moves to be a “standalone,” it will still require assistance from 4G. This will all be done seamlessly, giving you the best coverage wherever you are.

When 4G was released in the 2010s, it revolutionized how we use cell phones. Now, 5G is also expected to make our mobile lives better and more efficient.

The rollout is still in the early phases, but the progress is promising so far. While 5G is already available in most cities, coverage is rapidly expanding to less densely-populated areas. Even if 5G isn’t yet available near you, we’re breaking down everything you need to know.

What Makes 5G Different than 4G?

In some ways, 4G is the backbone of 5G. We couldn’t have gotten to this point without the advent of 4G, and it will be around for quite some time as 5G becomes fully enmeshed in our mobile world.

Simply put, 5G is the latest evolution of wireless technology, and it’s going to bring faster downloads and lower lag times.

It’s helpful to think back to the 4G evolution. While 4G phones were first created in 2010, the biggest changes from the 4G network and applications that required that technology came later (think apps like Uber and higher quality video calls, both of which appeared in 2013). According to PCMag, we can expect the biggest benefits of 5G to start showing up in 2022 and 2023.

How Does 5G Work?

There are three types of 5G bands, each serving different needs:

• Low-band 5G: Covers large areas and penetrates buildings better but offers the slowest speeds (still faster than 4G).
• Mid-band 5G: Balances speed and coverage, making it ideal for cities.
• High-band 5G (mmWave): Offers lightning-fast speeds, but only over short distances and in areas with minimal obstructions.

How Fast is 5G?

The speed of 5G depends on the band you’re connected to. High-band 5G networks can be 10 to 100 times faster than 4G, offering speeds for near-instant downloads. For example:

• Download a movie in 6 seconds (instead of 7 minutes on 4G).
• Large game files will download nearly 7 hours faster.

In areas where high-band 5G is available, the networks are expected to be at least 10 times faster than 4G — and some experts say it could eventually be 100 times faster.

Let’s put that in perspective. According to PCMag, the increase in speed will save the average consumer 24 hours in download time. Movie download times will go from seven minutes to six seconds and large game downloads will be nearly seven hours faster.

While this is promising, your actual speed will still depend on things like location and network traffic. As 5G becomes widely available, that coverage should be more stable — even when compared to the current networks.

Why Do We Need 5G?

5G isn’t just about speed. Its significance lies in how it supports the demands of our increasingly connected world. Here’s why 5G matters:

• Faster Download Speeds: Ultra-fast downloads transform entertainment and productivity.
• Less Network Congestion: Handles thousands of devices simultaneously, significantly reducing slowdowns during peak periods.
• Smart Cities Support: Facilitates real-time traffic management and autonomous cars.
• Event Connectivity: Ensures seamless messaging and streaming in crowded venues.
• Future Innovations: Powers advancements in VR, smart homes, and remote surgeries.

In 2020, the FCC established the 5G Fund for Rural America in an effort to modernize internet connections. The fund was created to make up to $9 billion in Universal Service Fund support available to carriers to deploy advanced 5G mobile wireless services in rural communities throughout the country.

Perhaps most importantly, the existing 4G networks are getting congested, leading to a reduction in speed, especially during the middle of the day. Your cell phone functions on radio waves, and as we continue to consume more data every year, there are breakdowns in service. 5G is better equipped to handle thousands of devices at a time without service gaps.

The expansion of 5G will unlock applications we can hardly imagine today. Just as 4G gave rise to ride-sharing apps like Uber, 5G is set to revolutionize industries, enhancing everything from communication to healthcare.

For households, this means more reliable connectivity and rapid downloads. EarthLink, with over three decades in the internet industry, is now bringing this cutting-edge technology directly to homes with its Wireless Home Internet, powered by local 4G and 5G signals.

How Widely Is 5G Available?

5G coverage is rapidly expanding. According to Statistica, more than nine in 10 U.S. mobile data connections will be 5G by 2030. This will put the U.S. in rank with other 5G-forward countries such as Canada and South Korea. Statistica also reported more broadband subscriptions in 2023 used 5G, a large shift away from traditional connections like cable, DSL, and satellite.

Key Takeaways

• 5G offers faster speeds, lower latency, and greater capacity than 4G LTE.
• The three types of 5G bands cater to different needs, from wide coverage to ultra-fast connections.
• High-band 5G can be up to 100× faster than 4G, ideal for streaming, gaming, and large file transfers.
• 5G supports next-gen technology, like autonomous vehicles, real-time traffic data, and smart homes.
• Nationwide 5G coverage is rapidly growing, bringing better connectivity to cities and rural areas alike.

Learn More with EarthLink

The future of wireless technology is closer than you think. Stay connected with EarthLink’s Wireless Home Internet for faster, more reliable service tailored to your needs.

Discover the potential of 5G with EarthLink today! Call 866-618-0264 to get started.