vRAN (virtualized radio access network) offers 5G service providers the ability to offer advanced services including private networks, network slicing, and IoT connectivity with the high performance and reliability of 5G. vRAN represents an evolution in the world of 5G that enables providers to develop advancements for creating more efficient and cost-effective 5G networks.

5G network providers can leverage vRAN to simplify network management while reducing operation and maintenance costs. The evolution of mobile networks represented by vRAN includes the ability to host multiple vendors on the same hardware which increases scalability and cost savings for 5G providers and customers.

This guide introduces vRAN — what it means, why it’s necessary for 5G, and why vRAN’s advantages are more beneficial compared to other RAN architectures.

Key Takeaways

• What is vRAN?
• Why is vRAN necessary for 5G?
• Learn the advantages of vRAN.
• What is RAN?
• Discover how vRAN provides for 5G expansion.
• Find out how vRAN enables businesses to create private 5G networks.

What is vRAN?

vRAN is a type of RAN (radio access network) that creates connection points between wireless devices and the provider’s core network. vRAN is a virtualized RAN (radio access network). Virtualization allows vRAN to be software-based and capable of running on standard servers.

vRAN is the next evolutionary step in advancing 5G networks and capabilities. vRAN enables network providers to run baseband functions as software rather than as proprietary hardware. vRAN provides a solution for 5G network densification and enables functions to pool in a central location using MNOs (mobile network operators). MNOs pool and adjust radio resources to better handle network user traffic.

In a vRAN 5G network, the base stations can be divided into three parts:

• Radio Unit (RU)
• Distributed Unit (DU)
• Centralized Unit (CU)

The DU and CU are then deployed using off-the-shelf or standard servers and virtualized network functions.

By dividing the units into three parts, vRAN provides greater network flexibility as one DU can support multiple RUs with varying access technologies in use, as well as different bands. Network agility increases when the network can deploy dynamic applications and scale automatically without hardware constraints.

The open nature of vRAN enables cost savings by using off-the-shelf servers without having to pay for proprietary hardware. According to Nokia’s Tommi Uitto, “VRAN means that the Baseband functions, such as L1, L2, L3 and transport processing, or at least some of them, are run by General Purpose Processors (GPP, such as x86 processors), on top of virtually any commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) computing platform. Until now, baseband has been run in purpose-built hardware (HW) using either ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or CSSP (Custom Specific Standard Product) type of System-on-Chips (SoC).”

vRAN virtualizes network processing and leverages the use of COTS (commercial off-the-shelf) servers and eliminates the high cost of proprietary hardware needs. By shifting to virtualization, users gain the leverage of a cloud-managed service. The combination enables a full-strength network with lower costs and higher overall performance.

Why is vRAN Necessary for 5G?

5G providers are moving towards software and cloud-based networks to improve scale and reduce cost. Additionally, network management becomes easier which reduces business costs while improving services for 5G customers. vRAN creates a central system management location using a server or cloud-based server. A centralized management hub brings base stations closer to the edges of a network and enables MNO pool and radio resource adjustments for improved performance.

vRAN provides a solution that decouples Base Station functions from Radio Units so processing can be pooled at the server. vRAN enables providers to split or slice networks to better serve customers. vRAN builds on recent modifications to cRAN for SDN/NFV tools (Software-Defined Networking/Network Function Virtualization) tools. vRAN’s virtualization uses the split or slicing of networks to flex based on user demands or traffic. The ability to manage the network in fine detail is important to the continued success of 5G. As more users come to 5G, improvements in managing traffic while retaining performance and reliability are essential for 5G providers.

vRAN’s NMFT tools allow providers to control and route network resources efficiently, ensuring continuous reliability, low latency, and higher performance. 5G network managers can easily tune resources to accommodate network traffic from a central server control or dashboard. vRAN allows 5G providers to better scale networks for customers without having to purchase or deploy proprietary hardware.

As connected devices increase and IoT connectivity expands, vRAN is the solution that is capable of handling 5G network standards.

What are the Advantages of vRAN?

Advantages of vRAN include:

• Lower operating costs
• Increased infrastructure agility and flexibility
• Reduces hardware and hardware integration requirements
• Direct scalability of network resources based on user load
• Scalability enables cost-effective network options for customers
• Interoperability with other RAN architectures enables scale

Virtualized network infrastructures using vRAN see a 44% total cost of ownership savings.

vRANs provide enhanced network visibility and control compared to other RAN architectures. More visibility and control mean businesses experience higher reliability and app-specific service levels across the network. With fewer hardware needs and increased scalability, businesses can now afford a private network using vRAN. With centralized and efficient network operations, both 5G providers and customers benefit from vRAN.

How Do RANs Work?

RAN stands for Radio Access Network. RANS provide connection points between devices and the 5G network. RANs are capable of performing complex processing and represent a significant investment for network capital and operational business expenses. RANs are powerful but rely on proprietary hardware networks that increase network and business customer operating costs. RANs come in different architectures, like vRAN.

All RANs are created using the same core components including:

• Radios
  • Radios can operate on various frequencies and power levels. Radios transmit cellular signals and convert them into radio waves for network broadcasting.
• Antennas
  • Antennas vary by size and work either indoors or outdoors. Antennas transmit and receive cellular signals across distances.
• Baseband Units
  • Baseband Units or BBUs process incoming and outgoing data from a radio unit. BBUS can be centralized or pooled together. BBU pools then send data to the mobile network.

RANs provide access to and management of resources across radio sites. For example, a device wirelessly connects to a 5G network. The RAN then sends its signal to various wireless endpoints to travel with traffic from a variety of networks. A single device or smartphone can be connected to multiple RANs at once.

Currently, RAN has been recently split to better serve customers. In the cRAN architecture, the radios and antennas have been split from the baseband controller to better handle modern mobile devices’ demands and user traffic. vRAN goes a step further and divides the user plane and control plane into distinct elements.

The vRAN controlled network may exchange messages or data using software-defined networking switches and separate control-based interfaces. The ability to split allows for improved 5G performance through network slicing and high MIMO antenna usage.

vRAN and oRAN – What’s the Difference?

vRAN and oRAN are terms often used in place of each other and characterized as open, virtualized RAN options. However, oRAN and vRAN are different concepts. oRAN is defined by standardized and open interfaces between components of the 5G RAN network. vRAN is one possible implementation of the 5G RAN components and an oRAN interface.

oRAN and vRAN may co-exist in some networks where oRAN is used exclusively, or a vRAN of the DU and CU components are virtualized but not oRAN compliant (non-open source). Another option may be an oRAN compliant RAN that is wholly or partly implemented as a vRAN.

vRAN implementations move the baseband functions for transport processing and run them on standard or cloud-based servers. Using a vRAN, networks can implement baseband processing on the cloud and significantly reduce resource management and processing costs.

Are you Ready for vRAN?

vRAN enables businesses to consider building and managing private 5G networks. 5G providers may provide consulting and design services, but once deployed the network becomes a self-serving 5G network completely serving business needs.

Investing in vRAN improves network performance, reduces costs, and simplifies network infrastructures for customers and service providers. vRAN supplies businesses with the resources to build exceptional customer experience all with increased scalability and processing efficiency. Moving network infrastructure to a secure, managed vRAN enables businesses to manage extensive networks with greater effectiveness using cloud-based automation.

Additionally, business users and service providers can leverage vRAN to minimize CAPEX (capital expense) and OPEX (operational expense). vRAN 5G architectures require less infrastructure investment but more, less expensive, IT spending. OPEX or operating expenses overall is shown to be falling with 5G and the adoption of greater process automation and centralized service IT management.

Need help finding the right vRAN 5G solution? Visit ATEC Wireless for full-service 5G design and management services. Put our expertise to use for designing and implementing private or shared networks that bring you all the advantages of vRAN combined with the reliability, data sharing power, and low latency of 5G.

By the year 2025, experts expect there will be approximately 1 trillion connected devices networking continuously. The current global demand for consumer and business connectivity has reached an all-time high. Customer demand for reliable and high-performance networking is raising the bar. Consider that right now 80% of mobile phone calls are made inside buildings and users expect connectivity to work regardless of where the phone is. Office and residential buildings must provide working DAS solutions to manage connectivity for public safety users as well as consumers and businesses.

The growing complexity of DAS design requirements is the reason for using the DASCAD platform. DASCAD offers a design platform for telecommunication engineers to design, develop, and test network systems accurately and ensure optimum working results.

DASCAD provides a platform-based design that combines outdoor and indoor planning options using high-definition 3D prediction and 3D traffic mapping. The capabilities of DASCAD are the solution to providing a hetronet platform capable of effectively simulating all network elements in a single tool. Both telecommunication engineers and managers or architects can compare and even test different design scenarios before deciding on a final option. No more wasting time trying to connect and communicate between business needs and network design. Use DASCAD to provide a single tool resource for planning, design, and communication.

Key Takeaways

• What is DASCAD?
• What are the benefits of using a design engineering platform?
• Find out why platform-based design adds value for engineering teams.
• How does using DASCAD help Telecommunication Engineers?
• Learn the advantages of using DASCAD for measuring network coverage.
• Discover the different types of DAS Design.

This guide describes the capabilities of DASCAD as a platform design tool that provides the basis for producing high-quality network designs, managing innovation, and promoting communication across the business.

What is DASCAD?

DASCAD is a platform-based design tool for networks. DASCAD enables an innovative and productive design tool platform to better assist telecommunication engineers in developing complex network designs rapidly and with higher quality. The DASCAD platform enables sharing of design information between decision-makers within the business as well as between engineers and other design personnel.

DASCAD provides a single tool that optimizes network design by providing indoor and outdoor network system planning using state-of-the-art 3D prediction and traffic mapping. DASCAD provides telecommunication engineers with a high-resolution hetronet platform that simulates all network elements including Macro, Small Cell, and DAS in a single tool. Telecommunication engineers can design the entire RF environment. Telecommunication engineers can test, compare, and share designs to ensure the optimal design is selected.

DASCAD addresses the telecommunication engineer’s need for an innovative design solution that addresses the steadily and rapidly increasing need to design networks that provide indoor and outdoor coverage in a variety of methods. DASCAD includes support for GSM, EDGE, GPRS, WCDMA, HSUPA, CDMA, EVDO, HSPA, and LTE as well as other wireless networking technologies.

What Are the Benefits of Using a Design Engineering Platform?

With the continued expansion of the networking infrastructure with 5G, engineers need tools to simulate accurate design structures and outdoor spaces. The better the models and simulated renderings, the more accurate and effective network designs can be. Consider the growing complexity of not only cell phone devices, but tablets, PCs, wearable devices for tracking data, and IoT connectivity. Using a platform design tool benefits telecommunication engineers, designers, and network providers by enabling a single, consistent tool that enables engineers to design complex systems with higher quality.

Design engineering tools like DASCAD enable engineers to simulate accurate building modeling with precise details including selecting building materials. More accurate building simulations allow engineers to better design detailed cable routes using simulated components.

The complexity of network designs and the volume of technologies involved in creating a working, optimal design requires tool assistance. Tools provide the means to design creatively and realistically while being able to share for review input in a direct fashion. Tools provide a working platform that saves engineers time while boosting design optimization with realistic feature modeling and test capabilities.

Other benefits of using a Platform-Based Design Tool:

• Design sharing between engineers
• Design sharing and review between business partners
• Improved network designs that better address the growing complexity required
• Testable architecture for testing designs before implementation
• Ability to make continuous adjustments based on feedback and testing
• Higher engineer productivity and engagement in the design
• Reduces costs of re-work and re-design needs when requirements change or fail to perform as expected
• Increased ROI on network design using a single tool

How Does Using DASCAD Help Telecommunication Engineers?

DASCAD helps telecommunication engineers by providing a platform-based design tool with the technology required for designing networks. DASCAD supports 3GPP and 3GPP2, Wi-Fi, and public safety technologies for network design. DASCAD is fully integrated to provide both intra-technology and inter-technology design and includes capacity planning options. Both the cost of the network, and the technology can be designed, reviewed, and tested within DASCAD.

DASCAD provides engineers the ability to use prediction to less than one meter accuracy for accurate placement of low power nodes, small cells, and wi-fi access points. This densification feature enables more optimal designs for a wider variety of networking solutions. Design accuracy improves with near real-time prediction (NRTP) capability. Engineers can model a wider variety of complex designs including network configurations, environmental parameters, operation scenarios, radio frequency characteristics, and various technical standards.

DASCAD saves engineers time by offering 64-bit multi-processing, multi-threaded, and distributed computing options. DASCAD provides a single platform tool useful for indoor and outdoor network design, capacity planning, and network optimization.

DASCAD enables collaboration by providing unified settings, design guidelines, and components within the same organization all on a convenient, easily accessible cloud-based platform.

What are the Different Types of DAS Design?

DASCAD enables design capabilities for a variety of DAS and networking systems.

Types of design options in DASCAD include:

• Outdoor DAS
  • Adds the ability to measure the effect of elevation, terrain, and building construction.
• Indoor DAS
  • Planning for antenna placement to achieve maximum signal coverage, capacity, and performance.
• Small Cell
  • Analyze network design for small cells including all essential input elements to maximize the network’s ROI. Find the optimal placement of cells and predict traffic loads.
• Macro
  • Provide design capability for creating networks within dense urban areas where traffic planning is essential for network operations. Evaluate network loading scenarios using realistic 3D prediction models and building data.
• Wi-Fi
  • Lower cost option capable of laying out Wi-Fi nodes for accuracy, interaction, coverage, and capacity.
• Public Safety
  • The accurate design required for public safety networks impacted by indoor and outdoor use needs. DASCAD provides realistic design elements for better public safety design and development.
• Millimeter wave
  • DASCAD produces design models for material loss and propagation behaviors. Design networks with higher frequency bands and larger capacities.
• Microwave
  • Effectively evaluate line of sight (LOS) with all other network elements to increase network performance.
• Hetnet
  • Use coverage, quality, and quantitative analysis across network layers.
• Traffic planning
  • Predict sector footprints and traffic data so designs provide realistic traffic plans. Use DASCAD’s cell loading and network KPIs to evaluate traffic loads accurately.
• Macro optimization
  • Better respond to design changes based on network changes, technology upgrades, and changing traffic patterns. Simulate various scenarios using DASCAD and improve user experience while saving engineering time and re-work effort.

Networks are growing in design complexity and design types to address a larger variety of connectivity needs. The complexity is not going away but continuously increasing. DASCAD provides a platform-based design tool capable of providing optimal network design quality now and into the future.

Platform-based design tools provide a modeling structure engineers use to produce accurate, realistic network designs that are shareable and testable in a single tool. The biggest benefit of using a design tool is increasing engineer productivity while improving design accuracy and network performance. Using DASCAD enables telecommunication engineers the ability to design, share, and test complex networking design scenarios using a single tool.

Designing network infrastructure is a significant technical challenge. 5G has increased the need to produce accurate network designs in a variety of scenarios with a complex array of elements to consider and test. Designing infrastructure requires using models developed specifically for network traffic. Design models must manage the variability and variety of network design options for telecommunication engineers.

DASCAD provides a platform-based design that combines outdoor and indoor planning options using high-definition 3D prediction and 3D traffic mapping. The capabilities of DASCAD provide the design solution to providing a hetronet platform capable of effectively simulating all network elements in a single tool. Both telecommunication engineers and managers or architects can compare and even test different design scenarios before deciding on a final option. No more wasting time trying to connect and communicate between business needs and network design. Instead, use DASCAD to provide a single tool resource for planning, design, testing, and communication.

mmWave is advanced technology added to the latest standard 5G released in 2020. mmWave technology enables 5G to efficiently use frequency bands above 6GHz or frequencies that were previously believed unsuitable based on signal strength and signal blockage. mmWave advancements and new antenna technology better enable a higher signal strength and offer a larger variety of deployment options.

mmWave characteristics include a data rate of 10 Gbps or greater and frequency bands that are split into two categories: < 40 GHz and 40 GHz to 100 GHz. Signal distances include 2 meters indoors and 300 meters outdoors with an overall latency of 1 ms. mmWave also provides massive MIMO support for 5G.

mmWave enables 5G to become the long-term solution for all future wireless communication domains. Business, industry, and consumer use can use the increase in bandwidth to experience higher speeds regardless of traffic or additional subscribers. Additionally, coverage is not limited to line of sight because mmWave enables an effective scatter path. mmWave provides the ability for 5G to serve a wider range of users simultaneously with top speeds and lower latency.

Key Takeaways

• What is mmWave?
• What are the benefits of using mmWave for 5G?
• How does mmWave work in 5G?
• Learn the characteristics of 5G mmWave.
• Discover the challenges of mmWave.
• Find out how mmWave benefits 5G implementation and service levels.

This guide describes how mmWave technology enables 5G to become the preferred type of wireless communication for both business and consumer use.

What is mmWave?

mmWave stands for millimeter waves. mmWave is cellular technology that provides the 5G system access to larger frequency bandwidths with greater capacity using millimeter waves. Currently, mmWave is the reason 5G technology is spreading rapidly and providing reliable, high-speed access to larger business and personal network systems successfully.

Millimeter wave is also known as a millimeter band, or the band of spectrum with frequency wavelengths between 10 millimeters (30 GHz) and 1 millimeter (300 GHz). mmWave is defined as an EHF (extremely high frequency) band by the International Telecommunication Union {ITU).

mmWave enables 5G to be used within a broader range of both products and services using mobile and wireless networks. mmWave allows for the high-speed transmission of larger data loads at the lower frequency levels used in Wi-Fi and cellular networks.

What are the Benefits of Using mmWave for 5G?

High network speed is the primary benefit of mmWave 5G. The higher speed comes from a high bandwidth capable of transmitting larger amounts of data continuously. The amount of data transmitted or received in unit time is greater in mmWave 5G system than in any other wireless network. High network speeds result in the lower latency of mmWave 5G networks. Additionally, the availability of spectrum resources means more for everyone within the network. In other words, less impact for users on each other and higher continuous network speeds.

Massive MIMO or multi-user MIMO (multiple-input multiple-output) technology available in mmWave 5G provides higher reliability for mobile network environments. Base stations are equipped with multiple antennas serving additional terminals simultaneously using the same frequency. Massive MIMO refers to the number of antenna arrays that enable reliable, consistent, and high-speed communication. Massive MIMO also operates in TDD (time division duplex) mode and enables systems to use downlink beamforming to exploit the reciprocity of radio wave propagation and make the system scalable up and down as needed. Additionally, each Massive MIMO base station operates autonomously without sharing payload or channel information with other cells in the network.

The lower latency of 5G with mmWave enables real-time services or cloud-based computing systems. Real-time data transmission and communication are essential when using cloud-based systems for both consumer and business needs. Data-intensive applications require the wider bandwidth possible with 5G mmWave. For example, systems transmitting and receiving large continuous data loads like autonomous vehicles, traffic management systems, education delivery, telemedicine, and virtual reality systems. Any mobile or web application used by consumers or businesses provides an improved user experience when using mmWave 5G networks.

Other benefits of using mmWave 5G include:

• Improved security features
• Suitable for use with small cells for greater reliability and lower latency
• mmWave enables 5G networks to support multi-Gigabit backhaul to 400 meters and cellular access from 200 to 300 meters
• Increased scalability to modify the network to improve service levels and support larger network loads
• Higher ROI for providers and network operators worldwide with a larger variety of deployment options

How Does mmWave Work in 5G?

The applications for 5G using mmWave technology expanded rapidly with the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Suddenly, network traffic expanded from both business and consumer use. 5G responded by enabling high-speed and reliable networking using FWA (fixed wireless access), especially where fixed line services such as DSL, cable, and fiber are limited or non-existent. Additionally, 5G with mmWave offers a viable alternative to fixed-line networks regardless of location. With the higher speed, continuous reliability, and ability to transfer large data sets faster, 5G using mmWave technology enables equitable, lower-cost network access for both consumers and the business sector.

Now 5G with mmWave technology can provide gigabit speeds and eliminate the need for fixed-line systems. The network capacity of 5G mmWave has increased significantly and enables 5G networks to provide a higher level of user experience, especially with video streaming services. No more waiting for the system to respond, or frequent interruptions in service.

With the 5G mmWave network’s ability to use small cell systems, it means 5G networks can be easily deployed to outdoor and urban or suburban environments. For example, 5G access is possible in all public spaces and venues with no need for fixed wire systems. In this manner, 5G with mmWave better supports mission-critical control applications. Mission-critical applications include autonomous vehicles, vehicle-to-vehicle, and drone communication in real time. With a latency of around 1 ms, 5G with mmWave enables applications to run continuously with superior performance and reliability.

mmWave 5G networks can also leverage small cell technology to provide reliable, high-speed network access in offices, shopping malls, and any other indoor space. Small cells support higher data transmission levels and provide seamless integration with cloud computing systems. Users no longer need to experience dead zones indoors with mmWave 5G. More bandwidth across nearly any location enables 5G to provide reliable network access to anyone, anywhere with reduced interference and greater network speeds.

Challenges of mmWave

With every new technology comes room for further innovation and improvement. mmWave 5G technology is not immune from facing challenges. Oddly enough, the most significant issues occur because of water.

5G mmWave performance is negatively affected by rain or high humidity. Why water? Millimeter waves can be absorbed by gases and moisture in the atmosphere. Although the 5G signal is not eliminated, the speed of the network is reduced. Rain fade is the condition where rain or humidity reduces signal strength and propagation distance. Most consumers or businesses notice slower speeds and occasional connection problems. How badly the network is affected depends on how far the user is from the base station range, and how much moisture collects on the mmWave base station.

Another challenge for 5G mmWave is it travels by line of sight. Line of sight can be blocked or obstructed by physical objects such as trees or buildings. The same thing can happen with humans and animals because of their higher water content. Typically, 5G mmWave networks employ Massive MIMO that eliminates the need for waves to travel using line of sight. For example, even if the mmWave cannot penetrate walls, it can be designed to bounce around walls and provide effective high-speed access and reliable network coverage.

mmWave Enables 5G

5G mmWave technology enables a new, innovative method of combining communication links with a new spectrum. Millimeter waves with their high-frequency, short wavelength waves enable the transmission of large amounts of data continuously with improved security. 5G mmWave enables 5G to replace more traditional network systems with its ability to provide reliable, high-speed networking both for fixed-line users and those outside fixed-line service areas.

5G mmWave networks enable a network not limited by speed, reliability, cost, or frequent latency. The benefits of mmWave 5G eliminate the previous 5G issues with signal propagation, signal strength, and the inability to handle large data sets effectively. Using mmWave, 5G moves forward and can become the future of networking both for businesses and consumers.

Although 5G mmWave has a couple of challenges, the benefits outweigh them while innovation works to address these challenges in the future. High speed, low latency, and improved security are all definitive benefits of 5G using mmWave. Massive MIMO and small cell technology advantages help to propel 5G with mmWave as the future answer for all networking needs.

Additionally, 5G with mmWave’s ability to provide scalable networking enables 5G with mmWave to become the answer to all networking needs without sacrificing reliability, security, or performance. Finally, the ROI for 5G mmWave technology opens the field to additional providers or subscribers that require a variety of deployment options. Lower latency and fewer interruptions continue to build and support a growing and loyal customer base for 5G mmWave network services.

Building and deploying an efficient wireless network is a complex task. The first step is mapping out a network design or plan, which always includes defining the hardware and software used in the system. Most wireless networks include a complex system of hardware, software, and towers hosting transmitters and receivers. Rarely do such standard network systems also include mobility or portability. CW transmitter and receiver systems offer the ability to create a wireless network with the added flexibility of mobility, reduced size, and cost.

What if a wireless network needs to be portable? How can a user generate and run a wireless network regardless of location? That’s where the Hermes CW Transmitters and Receiver system comes in. Creating a full wireless network that functions at a high level with low latency, while also being portable and flexible, includes using wireless transmission systems like the Hermes CW transmitter and receiver. Wireless transmission systems enable users to build scalable wireless networks that combine mobility and flexibility with quality connectivity and low latency.

Consider systems for the military for example. The US military relies on communication being fast and continuous. There’s no time for gaps when the signal is lost or the video or image transfer fails. The same issue exists with first responders and emergency personnel. Mobile wireless networks enable effective emergency management by providing reliable communication channels. What else can CW wireless systems provide?

Key Takeaways

• What is CW in wireless communication?
• How do a CW transmitter and receiver work in a wireless system?
• What are the benefits of using a Hermes CW Transmitter and receiver?
• Learn how CW positively impacts video production.
• Find out what CW wireless systems offer customers.
• Discover the benefits of CW wireless transmission systems.

This guide provides information on what CW wireless communication means, uses, and benefits to organizations in need of a mobile, high-quality wireless network.

What is CW in Wireless Communication?

CW stands for continuous wave. A continuous wave emits a continuous signal and receives a continuous return signal during transmission. CW transmitters and receivers transmit signals in a wireless network for RF/microwave, voice, video, data, electronic warfare, surveillance, and radar systems. CW transmission benefits wireless network users trying to transfer larger data streams and critical surveillance and radar systems.

CW transmitters and receivers are devices that use CW to amplify radio signals for communication needs. Continuous wave transmission dates back to the earliest days of radio communication and remains widely used for long-range communication needs.

CW wireless transmission uses a narrower bandwidth and requires less output power. CW delivers a clearer signal even under severe noise conditions like busy city traffic intersections or during a thunderstorm. For wireless networks, CW transmission provides backend signal transmission for a variety of data.

How Do a CW Transmitter and Receiver Work in a Wireless System?

A CW device includes a transmitter that sends out or transmits a wireless signal. The receiver device picks up the wireless signal sent by the transmitter and interprets the information or data in the signal. CW transmitters and receivers operate continuously, or without interruption.

So, essential information can be sent and received continuously.

The CW transmitter includes four components to operate: a generator, an amplifier, a keyer, and an antenna. The transmitter generates, amplifies, and turns on and off the RF oscillations that create the wireless signal. The antenna is there to radiate the keyed output of the transmitter.

The CW transmitter and receiver transmit and translate messages or data across the wireless network continuously.

What Are the Benefits of Using a Hermes CW Transmitter and Receiver?

The Hermes CW transmitter and receiver offer a variety of benefits for a wireless network. The Hermes system includes the ability to use six simultaneous CW signals with frequencies of 130 MHz and 28 GHz. That’s six continuous transmissions within the frequency range and using different ports. The available frequencies include up to 4G, 6G, and 28 GHz for complete commercial bandwidth coverage. The system includes a 1 MHz to 6 GHz band receiver capable of effectively managing twelve channels.

Additionally, the system offers the advantage of a mobile wireless network. The Hermes CW transmitter and receiver are both not only portable but also lightweight, so they are humanly mobile. Each offers AC and battery operation and can be used either indoors or outdoors with optional amplifiers.

Other benefits of using the CW wireless transmission systems include:

• Multi-port and wide frequency range use, which improves band testing time by 86%
• Cost flexibility with modular configuration options that include 1 to 6 RF modules
• Reduced overall cost to purchase
• Easier setup and portability
• Reduced interference and latency
• Improved site safety by eliminating wires
• Reduced system maintenance costs
• More effective long-range communication signals
• Improved signal handling for large data types including videos

What CW Offers Customers

• Network expansion with less cost
• Increased capability and coverage
• Access to any location using a portable network
• Faster image transfer
• More consistent video streaming
• Improved business revenue with lower maintenance costs
• Wireless network flexibility

Using a CW transmitter/receiver system enables businesses to expand networks with less cost. Consider the cost of IT maintenance, setup, and management. Now, compare the estimated IT management cost of a wireless network to the cost of a CW system including setup. Businesses save money without losing wireless network quality.

CW systems increase the wireless network’s capability and coverage. Since CW handles long-range communication effectively, business networks expand their coverage area. Additionally, with faster image and video processing, the network performance is no longer at the mercy of large image files. Imagine the ability to open a pop-up hospital in a remote location and still have access to the images necessary to treat patients effectively without a long wait or streaming interruptions.

With a humanly portable system, the network can be taken anywhere without the need to ship or transport additional materials. Setup is simpler and quicker, making managing the system far less resource intensive.

Customers experience more consistent video streaming using CW systems which enables improved tracking and management of RF/microwave, voice, video, data, electronic warfare, surveillance, and radar systems. Many of these systems are critical to government and military system functioning. During a crisis is no time to find out that large image files cannot be transmitted quickly enough.

CW and Wireless Transmission in the Video Production Industry

CW wireless transmission systems make video production available and affordable. With the ability to effectively communicate long-range with less interference, the video production set has gone from massive wires, cables, and equipment to a more simple, less cluttered approach.

Today, video production businesses can transmit a robust and reliable signal across longer distances with CW transmitter and receiver wireless systems. The quality of video streaming on your TV, for example, improves markedly when transmitted using CW wireless technology. Additionally, signal interference is reduced so less time waiting and more time watching video streams.

Video quality has also improved, offering higher resolution transmissions of 50-60 frames per second with far less physical equipment. Videos and images don’t require compression to transmit which enables near-zero latency. Television viewers enjoy higher-quality broadcasts or streams with fewer interruptions.

The issue of “cable clutter” reduces by eliminating the need to replace them after they’re damaged by getting caught in tables, chairs, or other items. Safety improves as well with fewer incidences of tripping over an extensive network of cables and cords. The flexibility of being able to move and capture video wirelessly allows for improved video quality.

CW and Continuous Communication

Continuous wave equals continuous communication abilities in a portable form. The ability to set up and manage a functional wireless network using a system of small portable devices translates to improved network flexibility and business profits. CW transmitter and receiver systems like the Hermes CW transmitter and receiver, provide continuous and reliable wireless connectivity. With CW, images and videos are transferred faster and with less interruption.

For videographers or filming organizations, the ability to not only film but quickly send in high-quality image files saves both time and money while producing a better, more creative result. No need to spend money shipping or transporting equipment, cables, cords, and systems. Setup and management of a wireless network with CW are both simpler and easier.

Customers get a reliable, cost-effective wireless network that gives them fast, reliable networking ability including video streams. The benefits of improved video streaming help not only the entertainment and television industry, but every industry wishing to conduct online training or better interact with and manage remote employees.

Emergency and military personnel benefit from reliable, mobile communication systems. The more efficient the setup and management, the more likely the system works during an emergency or critical situation. The portability allows for systems to be moved and sheltered using less space.

Need reliable, portable wireless network technology? Look at Hermes CW transmitters and receiver systems and see which one works for your business. Create a wireless, portable network that serves the business and its customers reliably and with consistently fast performance.

5G and IoT—a match made in technology heaven. Match or codependent enabler? However it’s defined, 5G is the key enabler for IoT technology success. IoT connectivity is not useful when networks cannot deliver reliable, high-speed access. The 5G wireless network fulfills the high communication level requirements demanded by an ever-expanding array of IoT connected devices.

IoT devices are designed to connect everyday objects like televisions, computers, cell phones, and home appliances. IoT enables connectivity so devices can be controlled automatically using sensors that constantly relay information to servers so consumers can remotely or automatically control smart IoT devices. Servers continuously analyze data and determine the appropriate action. For example, if a person has left their furnace off and the temperature drops below freezing, users can access their smart IoT furnace using an app on their cell phone to set the temperature. Once the server processes the message, the furnace system is updated and reset to heat.

IoT technology enables quick and remote response for consumers and emergency responders—including police, fire, and military needs. Critical operation support using IoT connected devices enables both a fast and accurate response. 5G enables IoT to create new business opportunities, new connected devices and services, and it powers the growth of security related organizations. IoT is the future, and 5G can make it happen effectively, securely, and reliably.

Key Takeaways

• What is IoT technology?
• How does 5G enable IoT?
• Learn how 5G technology empowers IoT growth and use expansion.
• Discover the features of 5G that enable improved IoT.
• What about data security and privacy?
• Find out the benefits that 5G and IoT provide for consumers and businesses.

This guide describes how the features of 5G enable the future of IoT technology for consumers and businesses, as well as the impact on data security and privacy for users.

What is IoT Technology?

IoT is not a single technology used alone, but a group of integrated technologies used for interconnected communication. IoT technology includes specific features that allow devices to provide services to private and business consumers.

Characteristics of IoT include:

• Interconnectivity between both virtual and physical objects
• Things-related service where function depends on the connected device
• Heterogeneity or the ability to connect devices regardless of platform, hardware, or software differences
• Dynamic change management by different objects or keeping connectivity when devices are in various status states

Examples of IoT technology for private consumers include smart appliances, self-driving, autonomous or partially autonomous cars, refrigerators that make grocery lists, and thermostats that respond to outdoor temperatures and change settings as needed. From a cell phone to a car to a home appliance, users can control interconnected devices from anywhere with connectivity.

For businesses, IoT means M2M (machine to machine) communication and interaction. Robots and manufacturing equipment that not only measure their service but respond to each other via connected messaging systems and sensors. For example, smart meters for utility services save both time and costs as the data uploads automatically without an employee having to physically drive to each location and read meter values. Currently, many restaurant businesses operate remotely controlled or autonomous meal delivery vehicles.

For government agencies and municipalities, IoT connected devices maintain traffic flow management and measure sewer levels and environmental pollution. Smart grids are popular to manage energy consumption and understand power needs and outages. Are you sensing “big brother” from George Orwell’s famous novel 1984? As IoT expands its reach, controlling and monitoring everything with sensors and data communication remotely is a reality.

How Does 5G Enable IoT?

5G provides fast, stable, and secure connectivity for IoT. 5G is the ground floor or operating network that can power IoT growth and technology effectiveness. 5G networks allow for multiple connected devices creating an IoT ecosystem that enables high performance, low latency, and reduced costs to operate.

5G enables and empowers IoT by:

• Using small cells to transfer large amounts of data faster
• Reducing overall power usage
• Speeding up transmission with less latency
• Enabling the ability to implement virtual networks or network slicing to create specific channels for critical use needs (fire, police, emergency, and military)
• Allowing multiple connected devices

How Does 5G Fuel IoT Growth and Expansion?

The most significant fuel 5G gives IoT expansion is network slicing. Network slicing creates subnets that provide connectivity for specific needs. Device connections can be prioritized and those with high priority are processed regardless of network load. Businesses serving emergency responders and military groups can create apps and device connections that enhance public safety and the safety of personnel.

Businesses increase process automation internally and on factory floors. M2M communication helps in reducing costs and improving product quality. AI and ML systems enable more effective communication between humans and machines that help businesses better serve customers. Factory floor and manufacturing businesses can expand IoT use to monitor product health during creation and shipping.

The network speed and low latency of the 5G network enable the growth and expand the usage of IoT. The ability to ensure coverage in every corner of the factory, office, warehouse, or any building is essential for ensuring IoT connectivity. A HetNet design platform such as DASCAD is invaluable for studying the coverage needed in any building and developing an effective design for implementation.

What About Data Security and Privacy?

5G networks are secure, using a variety of methods that are continuously being updated to meet the current need. The security issue with IoT comes from the diversity of connected devices and their inherent platforms and hardware. Not only does the cyber-attack surface expand with each connection and device, but so does the difficulty of securing the messaging from device to server.

There are effective security methods in place, but there are at least four significant concerns:

• Device compatibility differences
• A constant need for monitoring
• Ongoing security upgrades and changes
• Remote server security

Providing effective security that’s compatible between the vast and uncontrolled variety of devices is complex. Add to that the types of communication used by each device and the remote server adds to the vast problem of securing IoT communications.

Network security for remote servers exists in many forms and has a constant need for security monitoring and upgrades. Keeping up with new security issues alone is a complicated task but keeping up with device, communication, and network security needs is time-consuming and mission critical for consumers, businesses, and government agencies.

IoT enables the extension of security threats into the physical domain. So, not only the computer or technology side but the human side. For example, security threats that disable life-sustaining devices in hospitals, take over the operation of a car, or damage property such as homes, offices, and buildings.

The scope of the IoT security threat propels the security business. In the coming years, to support the number of IoT connections supported by 5G, security technology will have to improve. New security protocols and types will need to be devised to ensure public safety in an IoT world. A security related business boom is already actively in play and growing fast.

Benefits of a 5G Supported IoT Technology

The benefits of a 5G enabled IoT ecosystem are vast. IoT for private consumers allows for saving significant time and money. IoT provides convenience for consumers, allowing them to manage life tasks from a smartphone. Additionally, service appointments for furnaces or other home appliances can be scheduled by the device and added to your calendar. It’s like communicating directly with appliances to ensure the appointment time works for you. IoT devices take over the mundane, time-consuming acts of managing a life. Need groceries? A smart refrigerator texts a shopping list. Amazon Alexa places orders for consumers without intervention.

Think about autonomous cars. An autonomous car can drive the family to a vacation spot by simply programming in the location. Family members can rest, sleep, or watch the scenery going by without worrying about managing traffic. Need gas? The car pulls over as requested. Had too much to drink? No longer are drunk drivers a danger to others, an autonomous car delivers them home without endangering others.

Other benefits of 5G empowered IoT are scalability across business operations, improved M2M communication, and reduced operating costs. IoT connected devices manage office environments by turning off lights and utilities when not needed. Companies save money and reduce their energy use with IoT devices fully powered by the speed and reliability of a 5G network.

M2M communication improvements are based on the speed and reliability of the 5G connection. Fewer communication interruptions result in a more consistent and accurate communication sequence between machines. The smoother the workflow, the higher the productivity and quality.

The speed, low latency, and reliability of 5G combined with unlimited device connectivity enables the growth of a resilient, secure, IoT network of connected communication. IoT devices provide connectivity between the cyber and physical worlds for humans and machines. Security businesses will thrive as the industry works to manage the security concerns for the growing number of remote IoT connections and device types.

5G saves on energy use that will power environmental recovery. Enabling IoT technology with 5G capabilities ensures humanity thrives personally and in business while rebuilding the environment that we all call home. Imagine the possibilities! 5G and IoT may be the match that keeps the world moving along and communicating both effectively and reliably regardless of location.

Cellular coverage is essential for public safety because first responders need to be able to send and receive crucial data and communicate during emergencies. Public safety responders use smartphones and other connected devices to better communicate and manage police, fire, and EMT operations during emergency calls ranging from traffic accidents to ambulance calls. The cell phone is a primary communication method for a growing number of people. The ease of use, convenience, and ability to communicate quickly make cell phones a popular choice for the public as well as for emergency use.

Cellular connectivity provides real-time data to communication abilities that are needed in critical situations. A firefighter doesn’t need a cell phone to fight fires, but they need them to communicate on procedures and plans of attack so they can respond quickly and effectively.

Communication speed and accuracy are key to saving lives. For example, searching for survivors of hurricanes, tornados, wildfires, or other natural disasters requires a coordinated response between police, fire, and EMT first responders. First responders may also need to communicate with military personnel when called in to assist. The ability to communicate accurately and quickly saves lives and enables a more effective emergency response.

That said, there are issues with cell service reliability and coverage, especially within structures or buildings and in the remote outdoors. Communication networks tend to fail during heavy use or when emergencies occur in these locations.

What are the solutions to ensure quality, reliable cell coverage for public safety? How can new technology help ensure emergency personnel can communicate effectively and save lives? How can we ensure emergency responders can access and communicate reliably regardless of location?

Key Takeaways

• Why is cellular coverage critical for public safety?
• How do first responders use smartphones and connected devices?
• What is Public Safety DAS?
• Discover the importance of DAS or in-building wireless coverage.
• Learn the frequencies reserved for first responders and why they’re needed.
• Find out how boosting connectivity improves safety inside buildings and in outdoor spaces.
• Learn how 5G helps improve public safety communication systems.

This guide describes the current state of cellular communication for public safety and its unique communication needs including extended coverage indoors as well as outdoors, and the technology being used to improve cellular coverage and reliability.

Why is Cellular Coverage Critical for Public Safety?

Smartphones and connected devices are used by nearly everyone for work and personal communication. The convenience of the device size and the connection speed make connected devices perfect for communicating with friends, family, and the workplace. Similarly, emergency responders use smartphones and connected devices to communicate with a central hub, each other, and between agencies during emergency situations.

The speed of smartphones enables police, fire, and EMTs to respond faster and communicate easier with each other. However, cellular coverage in buildings and remote outdoor locations is often unreliable where it even exists. 65% of first responders experienced a communication failure inside a building or structure during an emergency response.

The inability to communicate effectively with command centers, each other, or support personnel makes managing a critical situation more difficult. Cellular coverage is critical for emergency personnel to better manage emergencies of any size, indoors or out.

What is Public Safety DAS?

Public Safety DAS provides comprehensive coverage within 90% of a structure with 99% coverage of critical areas for emergency responders’ use only. DAS stands for distributed antenna systems and they are installed within a building to boost cellular signals and enable them to reach indoors. They are often combined with Commercial Cellular DAS which provides cell service coverage throughout a building as well as adding in additional capacity for smartphone communication.

The advantages of installing both systems in building structures include:

• Both systems can accommodate the inherent interaction between cellular service and public safety needs.
• The systems manage wavelengths for various bands and frequencies to ensure service coverage for emergency responders.
• Less expensive to install together as a single cellular coverage system.

For public safety, every building must include a working Commercial Cellular DAS and Public Safety DAS system. Having both systems ensures cellular coverage during an emergency throughout the building so communication is not lost or restricted. Effective cellular coverage ensures the communications needs are met for first responders attempting to respond to an emergency. Communication saves the lives of first responders and the public.

Building codes must be updated and enforced to include full structure cellular coverage. Within the United States, 95% of the public owns a cell phone to use for personal, work, and emergency use. The ability to connect to reliable cell service is a necessity both for the public and for all emergency responders and emergency response organizations.

What about emergencies that occur outdoors? Currently, cellular communication is unreliable in many national parks and other remote outdoor locations. When emergencies occur, first responders are forced to use radio communication in areas where cellular coverage is sparse or non-existent. The US Government has been pushing cell providers to increase coverage in remote and underserved areas. Such increased coverage helps to ensure public safety by enabling effective and fast cellular communication.

Consider the outdoor mass shooting events that have occurred at concerts or other outdoor locations in the past 5 years. Without the ability to effectively communicate, public safety is at risk. Providing the ability for emergency responders to communicate effectively, rapidly, and reliably is key to managing outdoor public safety emergencies.

How Boosting Connectivity Improves Public Safety Inside Buildings and Outdoors

Boosting cellular connectivity means increased cellular coverage both for public and emergency use. Boosting connectivity alone won’t solve the public safety communication problem. Public safety networks must be exclusive and accessible for first responders and emergency agency officials. For this reason, there are reserved frequencies available only for public safety use.

Public safety reserved frequencies are in the range of 30MHz-150MHz, 450MHz, and 800MHz, lower VHF bands, and tactical frequencies.

Boosting cellular coverage throughout buildings and outdoors improves both the public’s and the emergency responders’ ability to communicate rapidly when managing an emergency event.

Solutions to Improve Cellular Coverage

Several commercial providers have deployed NPSBN (Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network) like FirstNet. FirstNet provides cellular coverage to increase public safety. AT&T was the first provider to enable the use of their cellular bands to provide the FirstNet service exclusively to emergency responders. Emergency responder exclusive cellular access helps to ensure first responders have fast and reliable connectivity to better manage emergencies.

Exclusive networks like FirstNet are important to ensuring first responders aren’t trying to communicate over a crowded network. Speed is critical to effective emergency response and response management.

The US Government continues to expand cellular coverage in both remote and underserved areas. The development of signals that are strong enough to function within buildings as well as outdoors is key. 5G wireless helps to achieve reliable connectivity regardless of location and multiple networks continue to expand coverage across the US. 5G will improve public safety as it expands across the US.

How Does 5G Improve Public Safety Communication Systems?

5G creates a whole new category of tools to provide high-speed connectivity with lower latency regardless of location. Using 5G, existing DAS systems improve coverage within existing and newly constructed buildings. 5G also provides connectivity between public safety communications and first responder radio networks, allowing for increased, synchronized communication across channels.

5G enables advances in the public safety sector, including life-saving apps, real-time drone surveillance, enhanced vision systems useful during fires, and crisis negotiation or bomb investigating robots.

Faster communication enables quick emergency response times regardless of location as well as the ability to call 911 on a cellular phone without special processes or instructions. 5G improves emergency response and public safety while enabling efficient and reliable communication channels for emergency responders and the public.

Public safety in the cellular age requires effective, widespread cell coverage. Effective cell coverage is critical for providing a timely and effective response to emergencies, regardless of location. Without reliable cell coverage, communications between emergency responders are less effective and more time-consuming.

Smartphones and connected devices provide mobile access for everyone but are especially useful for communicating and managing emergency situations. Devices and apps require connectivity to work reliably both inside buildings as well as outdoors and in remote locations.

Buildings often have dead zones or reduce the effectiveness of cellular signals. The importance of installing Public Safety DAS and Commercial DAS antenna systems helps to extend coverage within buildings so all areas are reachable, including stairwells, basements, and rooms without windows. Emergency responders require exclusive channels that are always on and accessible.

The continued expansion of 5G wireless will increase public safety by creating exclusive networks for emergency providers that work within buildings and outdoors, regardless of location. The ability to communicate rapidly and reliably is key to keeping first responders safe and able to provide emergency response services. Both the public and first responders win with increased cellular service connectivity and reliability both indoors and out.

5G means the 5th generation or the latest mobile wireless network technology generation. 5G replaces 4G, LTE, and earlier systems with significant improvements in security, speed, latency reduction, technology innovation support, and the ability to reach nearly everyone regardless of location.

5G networks will account for more than one-fifth of total mobile connectivity worldwide by 2025 and reach a greater number of people globally. 5G wireless network technology can be provided as a modern home or business internet, delivering a convenient, less expensive mobile solution that provides greater reliability, security, and speed.

For businesses, 5G networks provide faster speeds making work more productive. Greater reliability means less downtime and reduced costs of network support. 5G enables business connectivity in more locations and increases the ability to work on the go from anywhere. Improvements in artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and Augmented Reality (AR) will provide increased business opportunities from development to delivering accurate, engaging online training and business operations management.

Key Takeaways

• What are 10 things to know about 5G?
• What are the advantages of 5G?
• Are there disadvantages to 5G?
• Is 5G secure?
• Learn how 5G impacts business innovation and growth.
• Discover how 5G enables edge computing and improved customer experience.

This guide provides information on ten advantages, disadvantages, and opportunities created by 5G networks for individuals and businesses based on 5G’s low latency, high speed, and reliable connectivity.

10 Things You Need to Know About 5G

5G provides advantages to both businesses and individuals including:

1. Increased access to remote or previously underserved locations
2. Increased reliability and bandwidth
3. Faster connection speeds
4. Ability to use multiple devices on the same network with higher performance
5. Enhanced data transfer, upload, and download performance
6. The ability for businesses to leverage edge computing
7. Data security and privacy improvements over previous mobile networks
8. Improved use of AR, AI, and VR technology
9. Opportunity expansion in the development of AR, AI, and VR technology
10. Growth in the 5G security market to manage future security threats

What Are the Advantages of 5G?

For individuals or private consumers, the benefit of 5G is access. Access to a reliable, high-speed, and secured mobile network. Previously underserved areas within cities, suburbs, and rural and agricultural zones can experience useful, lower cost, and productive internet access using 5G.

Access to reliable, high-speed internet is crucial for individuals working remotely and those in need of services such as education, public safety, transportation, or employment. Access opens additional opportunities for employment or operating a small business.

Mobile-dependent users with 5G can participate fully in the global digital economy where cell phones and tablets are the primary means of accessing the internet. 5G represents an increased economic opportunity for everyone regardless of their location.

Individuals with 5G can take advantage of smart technology devices. Smart tech home devices such as thermostats, furnaces, and refrigerators can be used effectively. In the same manner, cities or locations with 5G access can deploy adaptive energy-saving street and park lighting. Reduced costs to manage and the ability to manage services remotely are significant advantages of 5G.

5G benefits businesses in similar ways. Access to reliable, high-speed internet at expanded locales means the ability to offer remote working, or open remote field offices, and remain productive. Additionally, for the manufacturing and retail sectors smart technology offers solutions for cost-effective inventory management, shipping, and inventory tracking.

Telemedicine access assists health providers in providing safer, accurate patient care from anywhere. Imagine having a specialist assist in a life-saving surgery remotely when time is critical. 5G provides the means for integrated, secure, and reliable connectivity.

5G provides the base to grow technology; especially in the AI, VR, and AR space. Technological advancements in these areas help businesses reduce costs while providing top-of-the-line customer service, training, employment, and business management. Video conferencing improvements and data sharing activities also improve under 5G with its reduced latency and ability to transfer larger amounts of data including large image files.

The 5G network enables businesses to create expanded networks using edge computing. Edge computing assists in processing data at points closer to the customer. Edge data processing increases website and app performance and increases end-user satisfaction. Additionally, customer service centers using 5G can better manage workflow automation, AI, AR, and VR to better serve customers. Customer self-service portals, as well as chatbots and other technology, perform more consistently on a stable, more reliable 5G network.

Other advantages of 5G include:

• Smaller battery size with extended life
• Reduced carbon emissions
• Reduced power consumption
• Improved security over previous mobile options
• Increased data generation for improved AI and Machine Learning (ML) capabilities

What Are the Disadvantages of 5G?

5G takes time to deploy over a wide area. Additional transmitters are required when compared to 4G, so all transmission sites require upgrading. On top of the upgrades, many areas require additional tower construction in sometimes difficult geographical locations. The process of upgrading and constructing towers is both time-consuming and expensive.

5G also decentralizes security. 5G’s increased dynamic software system involves more data transfer and traffic routing points. Every point represents a potential weakness in the network. Security is an ongoing issue and point of concern for all network technology. 5G expands the need for improvements in network security to protect and monitor larger amounts of data in transfer and storage.

Other disadvantages of 5G include:

• Device replacement for devices incapable of working with 5G
• Initial higher cost for 5G devices
• Lack of encryption early in the connection process reveals device information for IoT (Internet of things) hacking attacks

In 2022, the cost of 5G devices has normalized due to the rapid expansion of the network. Network security improvements are ongoing as the network expands so do the security standards and requirements for operation.

Is 5G secure?

The global 5G security market will reach 10.5 billion by 2027. 5G growth is a boom for network security, IoT, software, and technology businesses.

Currently, 5G is secured using subscription authentication, UE authorization, and access and serving network authorization. Additionally, user and signaling data integrity is used to ensure secure interoperability between connected networks. Data security and privacy remain a concern as the network expands and moves more data. 5G supports gNB encryption to secure user data in transit as well as for signaling radio resource control.

5G includes security in the current design. However, as with most technology, there is an ongoing and critical need to manage and monitor new threats.

5G network security is an improvement in securing data, device, and user data when compared to 4G/3G/2G networks. 5G is secured, but security improvements to identify, monitor, and manage threats are an ongoing requirement. The need for security management will drive a boom in the 5G security market.

How Does 5G Impact Business Innovation & Growth

5G expands business opportunities in the AI, VR, and AR space. Providing cost-effective, business management options for manufacturers, entertainment, and other business sectors will continue to grow. Solutions are aimed at improving inventory management and tracking, shipping, office management, sales, robotics, streaming video options, and gaming, to name a few. Additionally, 5G promises to create more business opportunities in the smart device and sensor market.

Business operations benefit from 5G technology with its eMBB (extreme mobile broadband), higher speed internet connectivity, and larger bandwidth. The reduced latency makes eMTC (massive machine type communication) function reliably and in near real-time speed. Using 5G, businesses can reduce costs by decreasing overall power consumption. At the same time, businesses can expand to remote office locations as well as offer remote working options that increase employee productivity.

Other business growth opportunities include:

• Security business growth for improved security protections
• Remote employee access or the ability to work on the go from nearly anywhere

Customer service options expand with a 5G network including customer self-service portals. The ability to fully use AI, VR, and AR technology assists in building a positive customer experience. Better customer experience results in revenue growth and longer-term customer retention. 5G enables the use of edge computing practices that further increase data transfer performance across the network.

The ability to use 5G in remote areas that were previously underserved benefits both businesses and individuals. Access to quality internet connectivity improves opportunities for employment, access to medical services, emergency services, and the digital world. Access to a secure digital world expands the opportunity to experience a world of opportunity with increased reliability and less interruption.

Although 5G is designed with the latest security advances in place, the increase in data creation, transfer, and storage increase the points of possible attacks. As with all technology, security practices and monitoring will require constant improvement. Ensuring data security and privacy for customers and businesses will continue to be a challenge.

Last but not least, the environment benefits with 5G energy saving abilities. Upgrading existing towers where possible and offering smaller battery sizes with greater efficiency help to reduce the network’s overall carbon footprint. 5G is the network for building a greener, more secure, faster, and equal-access future.

CBRS stands for the Citizen Broadband Radio Service spectrum-sharing model. CBRS allows various devices to share the same spectrum band. This spectrum-sharing model makes CBRS uniquely able to offer users the ability to access a shared spectrum at different times and locations.

Spectrum-sharing increases the efficiency of the broadband radio spectrum and allows it to work in areas with low, weak, or non-existent coverage. For example, CBRS can help rural areas access reliable coverage.

The growth of spectrum sharing also allows for increased innovation within the wireless industry, as new and established companies can now offer a larger variety of services to consumers anywhere within the US. This is possible because spectrum sharing optimizes the use of existing airwaves or wireless communication channels. Users can safely and securely share the same frequency bands with improved quality and speed and reduced interference.

According to the Communications Technology Laboratory (CTL) supported by NIST, spectrum sharing is necessary because of overcrowded airwaves. The spread of smartphones, the rise of the Internet of Things, advancements in military communication systems and public safety communications, and the use of wearable devices all combine to hamper an overused group of wireless radio bands. Worst case, this constant load and interference may interrupt critical services for public safety or military response.

Key Takeaways

• What is CBRS?
• What is Spectrum Access System (SAS) and how does it impact CBRS?
• Why is a shared spectrum necessary?
• How does CBRS work?
• Discover the advantages and disadvantages of CBRS
• Learn how CBRS expands access to wireless connectivity
• Find out how CBRS technology enables innovation and competition in the wireless space

This guide provides information on all aspects of CBRS, including its impact on wireless connectivity innovation and functionality.

What is CBRS?

CBRS operates in the 3.5 GHz band currently used by the US military, satellite providers, and other commercial users. The CBRS band partitions are as below:

Starting in 2015, the FCC commission adopted rules for shared commercial use of the 3.5 GHz band, beginning the CBRS service with a three-tiered access and authorization framework. The secured framework enables the band to also offer non-federal usages.

Here are the basics of CBRS that you need to know:

• Operates in the 3.5GHz band
• Standard LTE (Long-Term Evolution) radio interface
• Voice, data, and text communication support
• Indoor, unlicensed small cell service
• Requires SAS to manage connections and interference

Who Uses CBRS and How Does it Work?

CBRS is the power behind carriers offering extended range 5G and LTE mobile and internet services, including Verizon, T-Mobile, and Xfinity to name a few. Any carrier which needs to extend their 4G LTE and 5G network capacity can buy into the CBRS spectrum.

But CBRS isn’t restricted to just commercial carriers. Even individual companies wanting to manage their own networks can get access to CBRS. For example, building management companies that need to communicate with on-site device users or manufacturing companies that need to communicate and control factory robots can use CBRS. The system works both indoors and out, so there’s less restriction on bandwidth access.

Connection providers plan to use CBRS to replace fiber access and deliver wireless service to point and multipoint connections. CBRS may be used for IoT connectivity, as a replacement for Wi-Fi, or even as a supplementary connection service to boost access to coverage. The beauty of CBRS for users looking for strong connectivity is deployment simplicity combined with higher quality and faster connection speeds.

The shared spectrum concept within CBRS opens new channels for improved communication both for high and lower-priority users. Sharing enables critical systems for public safety and military actions to function unencumbered by individual and business connectivity uses.

What is Spectrum Access System (SAS) and How Does it Impact CBRS?

SAS (Spectrum Access System) is the new technology that powers CBRS. SAS uses artificial intelligence to detect spectrum usage and manages interference within channels. CBRS offers significant advantages over existing connection systems including cable, fiber optic, and broadband.

The SAS system is a cloud-based service that allows wireless communication management of devices transmitting within the CBRS band. The SAS controls and prevents harmful interference to high-priority users of the band. To transmit within the CBRS band, companies and organizations require SAS authorization.

Here’s how the process works when a CBRS device (also known as a CBSD) seeks access to the band:

CBSDs register with the SAS administrator and then receive a unique identifier. The administrator grants the CBSD an available location and installation characteristics. CBSDs then request a grant for a portion of the band to use. When approved for the grant, the CBSD begins transmission within their assigned area of the band.

The SAS system protects high-priority users from interference by using a sensor network to detect when high-priority users are using the spectrum. For example, one high-priority user is the US Navy. When the US Navy transmits within the spectrum, their transmissions receive priority over other registered band users. Essentially, the SAS controls and manages transmissions within the band and allocates usage based on the registered user’s priority status.

Advantages and Disadvantages of CBRS

There are many advantages of the CBRS spectrum. Carriers using CBRS can reach and attract additional customers who are out of the range of other providers. More customers equal more business revenue. Additionally, carriers can improve their customer experience by providing connectivity with higher speeds and less downtime, and fewer connection interruptions. As mobile network demand continues to increase, the CBRS spectrum may become the lifeblood of a mobile network provider.

CBRS makes private LTE wireless networks economically and technically feasible. Additionally, the performance of CBRS is generally significantly higher than Wi-Fi. The CBRS spectrum can maintain connections at -120dBm with increased coverage area per radio. In other words, carriers don’t need to manage additional cabling and switching infrastructure when using CBRS. Less infrastructure management means a greater return on investment for providing connectivity to users previously out of range.

The CBRS-based LTE network enables better roaming management for connected devices. The CBRS system manages roaming instead of the device itself. By managing device roaming capability, the performance of business-critical applications that require real-time response time increases. Additionally, users have a lower risk of dropped connections and have better performing and more reliable emergency communication options.

Because SAS administrators manage interference on the band, businesses can deploy mission-critical devices using a private wireless spectrum without negative impact from external sources of interference.

Similarly, the CBRS private mobile networks can offer service level objective metrics for minimum throughput, maximum latency, jitter, and maximum packer error rate using a standard, rather than a randomly accessible, system based on each user’s device.

Other advantages to using the CBRS spectrum include:

• Reduced dependency on MVNO (cable) networks
• Improved connectivity access for businesses in rural and suburban areas
• Reduced dependency on fixed wireless access systems (broadband)
• Increased innovation and growth within the wireless provider business space

Disadvantages of CBRS include:

• Interference management may impact connectivity access and speed
• Connectivity speed deteriorates the further the user is from a base station
• The high cost of the PAL tier may impact provider competition

Examples of CBRS in Use Today

One of the most popular uses for CBRS today is enabling broadband internet and cellular providers to better reach rural communities. In the United States, this has helped rural communities access more reliable internet connections. Perhaps most importantly, because CBRS is an established technology, providers are able to launch these new connectivity projects relatively quickly and cost-effectively.

Other projects that have incorporated CBRS include connectivity upgrades and improvements at locations including shopping malls, airports, and even local municipalities. In one case, the entire city of McAllen, Texas, partnered with a network provider to launch a CBRS wireless network to provide internet access to all its residents.

CBRS: Connectivity for the Future

CBRS enables increased access to connectivity speeds that make using the internet easier, particularly for users outside of major cities. Customers in rural and suburban areas have long suffered from a lack of providers and inadequate connection service. With an increase in innovation made possible by the CBRS spectrum, both business and individual users benefit.

The SAS administrator system ensures both the security of and access to the CBRS band. Using SAS to manage interference and transmission activity allows for the US military and other high-priority users to use connections without interruption while providing shared access to all.

Opening the CBRS spectrum to shared access improves communication access to additional users while increasing business innovation and revenue growth. Additionally, the end-user experience improves with faster and more reliable connections.

The next generation of apps created using the support of improved wireless technology that improves reliability, availability, and quality will make businesses better able to invest and grow their networks and products with less expense overall.

Planning and launching a CBRS project don’t have to be overly complex. Because the technology is well-supported, providers can launch networks relatively easily. And with the support of network experts like ATEC, CBRS is within reach of businesses of every size.

The future looks bright within the CBRS spectrum band for both individuals and businesses. Find out how this technology can help you connect today.

5G is now a commercial reality, with adoption of the new standard forecast to grow rapidly in the coming years. The key features of 5G are its high data rate, low latency, energy efficiency, scalability, and enhanced mobility.

One of the most exciting aspects of 5G is its potential to enable new use cases and applications that go beyond telecommunications. These new industries will become huge customers for communication service providers (CSPs). For example, 5G is expected to provide a major boost to autonomous vehicles and vehicle-to-vehicle applications. 5G can provide the high bandwidth and low latency necessary for these applications while also being much more power-efficient than earlier generations of cellular technology. In addition, 5G is expected to transform the way the devices that make up the Internet of Things communicate with each other and with other devices on the network. Also, by providing high-quality, real-time video streaming, 5G could enable augmented reality applications that would enhance the smart city phenomenon.

However, as 5G technology continues to evolve, so does the list of challenges that CSPs must address to bring this next-generation wireless technology to market. Perhaps the most daunting task for carriers is building out the complex and dense networks required by 5G. In addition, keeping operating and maintenance costs low is essential for success in the 5G era. Low latency requirements are also a key consideration, as is dealing with new security issues that have arisen with the advent of 5G.

This blog will take a closer look at these challenges.

Network Architecture

As we’ve all heard, 5G promises a lot. But to achieve these goals, 5G networks need to be very different from previous networks. They are dense and complex, with many small cells spread throughout the coverage area. And they require new types of radio equipment, which are more expensive and harder to maintain than the equipment used in previous networks.

One of the telecom engineer’s main challenges is designing and building the Radio Access Network (RAN). The RAN connects mobile devices to a core network, and it must do so quickly and without interruption. To accomplish this, the RAN must have a large capacity and be able to handle a large amount of traffic.

Densification of the network is a common theme across the industry. This refers to the concept of increasing the number of transceivers (radios) per unit area. The main reason for this is that as data speeds increase and users demand more bandwidth, it becomes necessary to have more base station sites which are near the user’s equipment (mobile phones, laptops, etc.). The result is a massive increase in traffic on the network which places a significant strain on resources.

Density has always been an important factor in network design, but it becomes even more critical with 5G. Small cells are key to providing the high throughput and low latency of 5G. The high frequency spectrum used for 5G also requires a higher density of cells due to path loss. Deploying more small cells can be a challenge, however, in terms of site acquisition, power requirements, and logistics.

To address this, telecom companies are turning to software defined networking (SDN) and network function virtualization (NFV). NFV is based on the idea of decoupling networking functions from the underlying hardware, and instead running them as software on commodity hardware. This has several advantages, including improved flexibility, scalability, and resource utilization. NFV is already being used in several applications in 5G networks, such as network slicing, creating intelligence networks at the edge, and multiple radio networks/connections.

Nevertheless, such new techniques require a new operating model which is different and complex from its previous versions and need proper knowledge to develop the architecture that can serve network requirements. For example, for developing an NFV infrastructure for 5G networks, one should have detailed knowledge about server virtualization, networking, storage virtualization, and cloud computing along with good hands-on experience on specifics of telecom domain like EPC/LTE Packet core, IMS, etc.

Luckily, advanced software packages like DASCAD are making it easier for network operators to incorporate network layers into their planning, including optimizing for small cell locations.

Operating Expenses

The transition from 4G to 5G technology is a substantial financial undertaking. One of the main cost centers for 5G is the equipment needed to support it. This includes both the routers and switches that will support the higher bandwidths and densities required by 5G, as well as the new base stations that will be needed to provide coverage.

While the cost of 5G equipment has been declining, there are still other costs associated with operating a 5G network. Configuration work, for example, can be costly as it requires specialized skills and knowledge. Network testing and management also incur costs, as do software updates. In addition, the transition to 5G requires a major investment in new spectrum licenses.

As 5G technology becomes more widespread, these costs are likely to decline as well. However, for now, they represent a significant expense for 5G operators.

Ultra-Low Latency Requirements

5G infrastructure is being built to support a wide range of applications beyond traditional telecom. Some applications that have seen significant attention include the emerging market of devices that require ultra-low latency, meaning they have to operate in real time. This market includes a variety of applications such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and industrial automation. Legacy networks simply cannot handle this speed and volume of data.

There are several technical challenges that need to be addressed to meet these stringent, low latency requirements. For example, CSPs must consider the type of traffic that will be passing through the network, the physical layer infrastructure, and the routing protocols. The networks also need to be built with a higher density of small cell sites and use advanced technologies such as beamforming and massive MIMO.

Tools like iMeasure are growing increasingly sophisticated in response to these challenges. For example, iMeasure now includes new methodologies to precisely measure latency during the network planning process.

Security

5G networks will present new challenges for telecom engineers in terms of both ensuring reliability and performance as well as safeguarding against potential cyber threats.

As mentioned, 5G networks will be highly distributed, with small cell towers located in densely populated areas. This increased density will require new consideration of potential cybersecurity risks. One such risk is the increased scenario of a Denial of Service (DoS) attack, in which malicious actors attempt to overload the network with illegitimate traffic, preventing legitimate users from accessing the network. Another risk is the possibility of data interception, as 5G networks will transmit large amounts of data over short distances.

Another security challenge is that networks will also be distributed in remote areas which creates new risks that also must be considered for proper cybersecurity. Some unique capabilities that need to be taken into account to mitigate this risk include:

• The ability to manage dynamic changes in the network environment
• The need for highly granular and real-time visibility into traffic patterns
• The ability to quickly identify and respond to anomalies

Consideration of potential risks is essential to mitigating these dangers and ensuring the success of 5G technology.

Conclusion

5G is a cutting-edge technology that promises significant benefits for telecom operators and customers alike. However, 5G networks are also very complex, and building them poses several challenges. One of the most significant challenges is the need to deploy a dense network of small cell sites. This places a great deal of strain on construction crews and equipment, and it also increases the risk of service disruptions. Another challenge is keeping operating and maintenance costs low. 5G networks require more frequent updates and monitoring than previous generations of wireless technology, which drives up costs. Finally, 5G networks must meet stringent requirements for latency and security. This is particularly challenging given the increased threat from cyberattacks. Despite these challenges, 5G represents a major opportunity for telecom operators. Proper planning and execution are needed to reap the rewards of this game-changing technology.

The Need for a New Business Model

The mobile telecommunications industry is at a crossroads. For years, mobile operators have relied on a simple business model: build networks and charge customers for access. This model has been remarkably successful, driving spectacular growth in both the number of subscribers and the amount of data they consume. However, as penetration rates increase, the number of new subscribers is beginning to plateau. At the same time, customers are becoming more demanding, expecting faster speeds and more reliable service. As a result, mobile operators are under pressure to upgrade their networks to 5G, the next generation of cellular technology.

The Challenges of Profitable 5G

While the world is on the road to ubiquitous 5G networks and services, carrier Wi-Fi will still play an important role in keeping costs low and ensuring profitability. Yes, we know 5G will enable a wide range of new and innovative services, from IoT to self-driving cars, but the key for service providers will be to keep their network costs under control.

Carrier Wi-Fi can help with this by offloading traffic from the cellular network and providing a cost-effective way to extend coverage. In addition, carrier Wi-Fi can be used to create private or public 5G networks for specific applications, such as industrial or enterprise use cases. By leveraging carrier Wi-Fi, service providers can keep their network costs down while still delivering high-quality 5G services.

5G is Expensive to Deploy

The problem is that there is no guarantee that customers will be willing to pay for the higher speeds and improved performance that it offers. To make matters worse, many countries are lagging in the development of 5G infrastructure, which means that mobile operators may need to bear the brunt of the investment themselves. Given these challenges, the traditional business model is no longer sustainable. Mobile operators will need to find new ways to generate revenue if they want to stay afloat in the 5G era.

Indoor Coverage is a Challenge

One of the biggest 5G challenges is building sufficient indoor coverage. The current cellular frequency doesn’t have the best building penetration and is only going to get worse as we move to the 5G network. On top of that, with the higher frequencies comes higher coupling losses. We’re looking at a -6dB loss for every doubling of frequency, which quickly adds up.

To combat this, mobile operators are turning to beamforming. This technology sends radio signals from the outside in, bypassing much of the interference and path loss that would traditionally slow down or stop the signal. However, beamforming comes with its own set of challenges. Foremost among them is the need for accurate mapping of a building’s interior to place the beams in the right spot. Otherwise, all you’ve done is create a more targeted form of interference. As operators work to overcome these challenges and build a reliable 5G network, indoor coverage will be a key area of focus.

In the past, operators have had to use complex and expensive modeling systems to plan reliable coverage. Technology like DASCAD is making it easier than ever for operators to plan coverage both indoors and outdoors using the same, cost-effective tool.

Wi-Fi Offloading

As indoor data consumption continues to grow, operators will need to find ways to increase capacity and improve coverage. One solution is to densify their base station network, but this is only part of the equation. Indoor coverage will also need to be addressed, and Wi-Fi is the perfect complement to 5G for this purpose. Wi-Fi offloading is a process whereby data traffic is transferred from a cellular network to a wireless LAN.

For example, when cell phone users connect to the internet via their cellular data plan, it can put a strain on the carrier’s network. This can lead to slower speeds and dropped connections, especially during peak hours. Wi-Fi offloading is a technique that allows carriers to reduce the strain on their networks by routing traffic through Wi-Fi hotspots instead.

Tools like DASCAD can help planners better understand how to offload traffic to Wi-Fi by providing traffic studies within the software itself.

But Who Exactly Benefits from this Technology?

For starters, Wi-Fi offloading can be necessary for businesses that rely on the internet to function. For example, many retail stores use Wi-Fi to process transactions and connect to their inventory systems. If the store’s Wi-Fi connection is constantly being overloaded, it can lead to frustrating delays and even lost sales. By offloading some of the data onto a separate network, businesses can keep their systems running smoothly and avoid losing customers.

Similarly, Wi-Fi offloading can also be a great way to improve the user experience for people who live in densely populated areas. If you’ve ever tried to use your phone in a crowded place like a stadium or an airport, you know how frustrating it can be when the network is overloaded. By routing some of the data traffic onto a different network, Wi-Fi offloading can help reduce congestion and improve speeds for everyone.

Three Types: Automatic, Opportunistic, and Aggressive

There are a few different ways that Wi-Fi offloading can be achieved. The most common method is known as “automatic handoff.” This is when a device automatically connects to the strongest signal, whether it be cellular or Wi-Fi. Another method is “opportunistic offloading,” which occurs when a user manually connects to a Wi-Fi network instead of using the cellular connection. Finally, “aggressive offloading” happens when a carrier intentionally routes all traffic through a Wi-Fi network to relieve congestion on the cellular network.

How Do Network Operators Implement Wi-Fi Offloading?

There are several different ways to implement Wi-Fi offloading, but the most common is to use specialized hardware at cellular towers. This hardware detects when a user’s device is in range of a Wi-Fi network and automatically switches the connection to the Wi-Fi network. In some cases, the user may need to enter a password or take other steps to connect to the Wi-Fi network. Once connected, the user’s device will automatically switch back to the cellular network when it is no longer in range of the Wi-Fi network. Wi-Fi offloading can be an effective way for network operators to manage congestion, but it is not without its challenges. One challenge is that not all devices are compatible with Wi-Fi offloading. Another challenge is that switching between networks can sometimes result in a poorer quality connection. As mobile data usage continues to rise, network operators will need to continue to explore new ways to manage congestion on their networks.

Benefits of Using Wi-Fi Offloading

Wi-Fi offloading can:

• Improve the performance and user experience of cellular networks. When users connect to a Wi-Fi network, they bypass the cellular network and connect directly to the Internet. This can reduce congestion on the cellular network and improve speeds for all users.
• Save money for both network operators and users. When users connect to a Wi-Fi network, they use data from their data plan rather than from the cellular network. This can save money for network operators by reducing the amount of data that they need to provide, and it can save money for users by reducing their monthly cell phone bill.
• Improve battery life for both mobile devices and cellular networks. When a user connects to a Wi-Fi network, their mobile device does not need to use as much power to communicate with the cellular network. This can improve battery life for both mobile devices and cellular networks.
• Improve the coverage of cellular networks. When a user connects to a Wi-Fi network, they can access the Internet from more places than when they are using the cellular network. This can improve the coverage of cellular networks and make it easier for users to stay connected.
• Improve the security of cellular networks. When a user connects to a Wi-Fi network, their traffic is encrypted and is not subject to the same security risks as when it is transmitted over the cellular network. This can improve the security of cellular networks and protect users from potential threats.

Complications and Downsides

If you are considering implementing Wi-Fi offloading in your network, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind.

• Offloading can increase the amount of traffic on your Wi-Fi network, which may require you to upgrade your equipment or increase the number of access points.
• Users need to be aware of how to connect to a Wi-Fi network to take advantage of the benefits of offloading.
• Your network needs to be configured properly to allow Wi-Fi offloading.
• You need to have a plan in place to monitor and troubleshoot any problems that may occur with Wi-Fi offloading. You may need to have a dedicated team in place to handle any issues that may arise.

But Won’t 5G Make Wi-Fi Obsolete?

As the rollout of 5G technology continues, many people are wondering how it will impact their Wi-Fi connection. Will 5G make Wi-Fi obsolete? Actually, the opposite is true — 5G will complement Wi-Fi and provide a boost to speed, capacity, and quality. Here’s how.

The latest Wi-Fi technology, Wi-Fi 6, has significantly increased connectivity speed and capacity over traditional Wi-Fi networks. The higher speeds and reduced latency of the new technology will enable new applications and experiences, such as augmented reality and virtual reality. In addition, it is better equipped to handle the increasing demand for data-intensive applications, such as 4K video streaming and cloud gaming. The increased capacity will also be beneficial for the growing IoT market by providing a more reliable and efficient way to connect devices,

The Share of Offload Traffic Will Continue to Increase

It’s no surprise that device data consumption continues to rise, especially due to the increased demand for video streaming and collaborative work applications, such as virtual meetings. In fact, research suggests that offloading is a global trend. The main reason for this is simple: capacity. Carriers have a finite amount of spectrum available to them and there is only so much that can be done to use it more efficiently. MIMO (multiple input, multiple output, a technology for optimizing wireless data transmission by using two or more antennas) and carrier aggregation can help, but the reality is that there are limits to what these technologies can do in terms of boosting spectral efficiency. So, while 5G will bring higher speeds and lower latency, it will also bring with it an ever-increasing need to offload traffic onto Wi-Fi networks.

Conclusion

The Wi-Fi offloading trend has profound implications for service providers everywhere. First, it means that they need to have a robust Wi-Fi strategy in place. Second, it means that they need to start thinking about how best to monetize their Wi-Fi networks as they become an increasingly important part of their overall business. And third, it means that they need to start working more closely with the vendors who provide them with access points and other Wi-Fi equipment. In short, carrier Wi-Fi is inevitable and service providers need to be prepared for it.