Advantages and disadvantages of 5G
Optimized network
The 5G network is more flexible to function with a variety of client groups, services, and market segments. It divides its network layers such that it is adaptable to the requirements of the users. It is based on network function virtualization (NFV) and software-defined networking (SDN). It is informally also referred to as “network slicing”. This provides high data rates, low energy consumption, and reliable low latency.
Beamforming
Beamforming refers to a particular processing technique for radio signals that allow directional transmission of network or reception, unlike passive antennas that radiates signals aimlessly in all directions. The 4G network uses beamforming up to some capacity as well but in a less mature sense.
Benefits to industry and business
It provides improved machine-to-machine communication for automation, real-time communication, and guaranteed network availability, digitalization of the medicine and agriculture industry.
Benefits to consumers
It provides faster buffering and loading times while streaming to users. Stable connection and mobile telecommunication, low response time for online or cloud gaming, virtual reality, ultra-high-resolution live TV, and 4K video telephony.
More secure network
The 5G network offers more security than the previous generation network. It facilitates protection from data loss, data breaches, and theft. Exchanging sensitive and private data of clients such as patients’ reports in hospitals, consumer data, and students’ info in universities are more secure with a 5G network.
Disadvantages of 5G
Limited coverage
5G network being the new technology demands a wide network of base stations and transmission towers globally and that requires a lot of time, testing, trial, and set-up of 5G towers.
Reduces durability
If experts are to be believed 5G non-standalone networks are damaging the efficiency of 4G network devices. While few manufacturers have started producing 5G network devices, the R&D is of the opinion that due to high-speed data transfer and optimized network, the durability or ife span of mobile and other devices will be compromised.
Interference with aviation flights
Air India this January canceled several flights to the U.S. because they were rolling out 5G operations in the country. This is a major disadvantage of 5G in India as the aviation industry faced losses due to ongoing 5G installation projects. This could also be a hindrance in the future if not addressed early on.
Cybersecurity risk
While the 5G network claims to help enhance cybersecurity, on one hand, it also has its limitations as it encourages cloud computing and puts a lot of data at risk of hacking due to its lack of encryption and easy availability on accessible network range on the other hand
5G in India
India officially introduced the 5G network last October this year in an event hosted in New Delhi. Airtel and Jio started rolling out 5G data plans in selected cities. However, Vodafone Idea is not planning to launch it in near future as of yet. In the case of Airtel, they have installed in only 8-tier cities for now. Jio also rolled out 5G services in limited areas too. Most of the telecom operators are also of the opinion that pan-India coverage of the 5G network will take a few years. Jio recently announced after their beta trial of 5G, that no SIM card is required to operate the 5G network of Jio to work. However, Vodafone Idea hasn’t announced its 5G network yet.
Health risks of 5G and 5G disadvantages to the environment
International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) stated that the increased radio frequency above 6 GHz could cause biological and health effects. The 5G network will increase the amount of electromagnetic radiation in the environment leading to a high risk of cancer. With the lack of durability of 5G network devices, there will be an increase in the accumulation of e-waste as well. The electromagnetic cell tower radiation has exposed sparrows and other birds that have resulted in disfigured breeding of eggs and nesting habits. The high degree of energy consumption has also contributed to global warming.