7 hours Ago
The growth of 5G technology has put the future of Wi-Fi in question. In this era of smartphones, everyone carries 5G phones with high-speed data connectivity. Most importantly, 5G offers remarkable speed, low latency, and other features to complicate the relationship between these two wireless networks more.
Therefore, jumping into the decision of whether 5G will replace Wi-Fi or not, a proper understanding of both is necessary. The fifth generation of cellular networks, popularly known as 5G, is designed to provide users with high-speed, low-latency internet connection, even in remote areas. The most outstanding part of it is that it covers all the frequencies equally and offers a balanced experience, irrespective of the user staying in a low, medium, or high band area.
The potent contender of this wireless connection is Wi-Fi. This is also a wireless network designed to connect devices through LANs or local area networks. The most vital thing about Wi-Fi is that it used to operate in the 2.
4 GHz and 5 GHz unlicensed frequency bands. Therefore, Wi-Fi is the best choice for homes and offices. With advancement, Wi-Fi has improved its performance, and the latest version, Wi-Fi 6, offers high data rates, improved efficiency, and other features.
Both of these wireless networks deliver high-speed internet access , but the efficiency differs based on different locations: Mobility and Wide-Area Coverage : Wi-Fi is more recommended for users who stay in a location, but for continuous connectivity while moving around, 5G offers better connectivity. Precisely, when a user is traveling, 5G provides continuous high-speed internet for enjoying gaming or movies. Therefore, 5G is a perfect choice for outdoor setups.
Localized High-Density Environments : It’s not wise to judge Wi-Fi based on this one point. It also has its advantages. For example, in areas where a lot of devices are in a confined space, Wi-Fi 6 will be the perfect setup to get a high-speed internet connection on each device without lag.
One can stream or play games using it. Therefore, both of these networks have their set issues and benefits. However, there are even cases where both of them should co-exist to serve different purposes.
Let’s take an example of a Smart City, where Wi-Fi 6 is supposed to handle indoor activities, while 5G offers outdoor connections. It is highly unlikely that 5G will make Wi-Fi obsolete, but there are a few scenarios where this may happen. Let’s check the below points to understand it better: Temporary or Remote Deployments : If there is a situation where rapid deployment of an internet connection is required, like during events or emergencies, it is impossible to set up Wi-Fi, on such short notice.
At that time, 5G provides immediate internet connectivity without any setup or extensive infrastructure. Industrial and Enterprise Applications : The next scenario, where Wi-Fi could be replaced by 5G networks is the industrial scenario. If some industries require ultra-reliable, low-latency communication, they can easily go for private 5G that will offer enhanced security, control, and performance suitable for specific industrial needs.
5G indeed has some benefits to become the most popular connectivity network, but there are some challenges as well. Below is the list that one should consider before reaching any conclusion: Infrastructure and Cost : 5G networks are not very budget-friendly, especially when one is trying to do it in their homes. Deploying 5G networks in home environments requires loads of infrastructure, including small cells and signal repeaters.
This entire thing costs a lot. In contrast, if one goes for a Wi-Fi set, it will be more cost-friendly, and can easily be implemented inside buildings. Device Compatibility : This is probably the most vital thing to consider about 5G networks.
If one surveys the market, one will soon figure out that most existing devices are compatible with Wi-Fi. They don’t have 5G support at all. Therefore, this shift will make most of the devices out of the market.
Spectrum and Interference : This is another troublesome thing to think about before switching to 5G. Wi-Fi generally uses an unlicensed spectrum. Therefore, users can use these networks anywhere without any need for carrier involvement.
That’s exactly what makes the use of 5G challenging . 5G uses licensed spectrum. Therefore, it is regulated and requires the involvement of the service providers.
This makes the use tough. The competition is hard, and both contenders are advancing to get the crown in the wireless market. But it seems impossible that 5G completely replaces Wi-Fi.
Instead, these will probably coexist, as they have been doing for a long time already. Instead of trying to replace each other, if these two wireless networks complement each other, then wireless technology will achieve more heights in the future by fulfilling the diverse demands of users..
