5G technology itself is not inherently dangerous, but it raises some concerns, mainly related to health, security, and privacy.
- Health Risks: While 5G uses higher frequency radio waves compared to previous generations, studies have not conclusively proven any harmful effects on human health. Regulatory bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) state that 5G frequencies are within safe exposure limits. However, some people remain cautious due to a lack of long-term studies.
- Security and Privacy: The increased number of connected devices can create more entry points for cyberattacks, making data privacy and network security critical.
- Environmental Impact: More infrastructure is required to support 5G, such as new cell towers, which can contribute to environmental concerns in densely populated areas.
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 is a massive step forward for cellular. Similar to the legendary switch from wired dialup to high-speed broadband, we will rethink what mobile data can do.
That said, there is one major downside keeping 4G from being entirely replaced right now:
5G is hard to install and deploy. More transmitters are needed to cover the same area as current 4G networks. Providers are still working on placement for some of these “cells.” Some regions have physical challenges like protected historical sites or rough geography.
Slow rollout might seem negative for the future of 5G. However, the prolonged upgrade might end up giving providers time to address another big concern: security.
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