The two frequencies that Wi-Fi uses are 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Using the same Wi-Fi frequency band as your neighbors can be a problem, especially if you live in a very densely populated area with limited bandwidth. We pay an internet service provider (ISP) to deliver the internet to our door, and then we use a router to fill our house with Wi-Fi.
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Wi-Fi relies on unlicensed spectrum that’s free for anyone to use but has a relatively weak signal. To recoup their investment and further expand network infrastructure, they rely on us paying subscriptions. To roll out coverage, they have to build a network of connected base stations capable of sending out a signal that’s strong enough for the network to serve multiple people (thousands in urban areas) at once. Carriers, like Verizon and AT&T, have to pay to use those bands. Cellular or mobile networks rely on licensed spectrum bands, which are auctioned off to the highest bidder. We have a detailed explanation of what 5G is, but in brief, 5G is the umbrella term for the fifth generation of cellular network technology, and it encompasses a lot of different elements. What’s the difference between 5G and Wi-Fi? And they could end up working together to improve your wireless network, such as in the case of 5G home internet. While 5G will undoubtedly come in handy in many situations, Wi-Fi, which is still being developed and updated, will be useful in other situations. While Wi-Fi and 5G will be pitted against each other, all signs point to us likely needing both technologies to fully take advantage of the internet of tomorrow. In other words, 5G is going to give your Wi-Fi connection a run for its money.
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The current 5G is better than 4G, but only delivers minimal improvements to download speeds, but eventually, it should dramatically improve download speeds, nearly eliminate latency, and reduce congestion on mobile networks. We’re entering the era of 5G, and while it hasn’t necessarily brought about the mobile revolution some expected, it could well do so in the next few years.