Superfast internet: The rise of 5G networks
5G is making our lives easier in ways that you may not even realise.
If you remember when you had to connect to the internet via a dial-up connection, you’re an online veteran. You’ll have seen many changes, including the technological advances that have made online connection so much faster – giving us the 5G and instant downloads that we enjoy today.
What does 5G mean?
The ‘G’ stands for generation – 5G is the 5th generation of wireless technology.
Timeline of wifi generations
The first generation of wireless technology started in Japan. By 1984, Japan had become the first country with a nationwide 1G service.
2G was an improvement, but still transmitted relatively slowly. It did, however, allow for digital voice and data communication, which allowed us to text and have basic internet access.
3G is where things really started to get interesting. As technology advanced, we needed faster internet speeds to keep up. 3G offered speeds that enabled multimedia features like photo sharing and audio streaming and made it possible to download and use online apps.
In 2010, 4G was implemented, which enabled high-quality video streaming, faster cellphone web access, high-definition (HD) videos, and better online gaming with less lag and improved graphics.
That brings us to 5G, which provides high-speed data communication for streaming services and record-breaking upload and download speeds. 5G is revolutionising the way we connect with each other virtually – and get access to digital banking. But how can it change your life?
The impact of 5G on everyday life
With 5G technology, you experience much faster internet speeds, so that you can download movies and stream videos without buffering. You can connect more devices to your wifi simultaneously, making your smart home devices work seamlessly with instant responses. 5G also reduces the delay between sending a command and seeing it executed, which is critical for innovations like self-driving cars and augmented reality (AR) gaming.
5G and healthcare
5G technology is revolutionising healthcare by improving efficiency, allowing real-time data access, and encouraging innovation. Its high speed and low latency support applications like remote patient monitoring, telemedicine and advanced diagnostic tools, transforming patient care.
With 5G, healthcare providers can perform remote surgeries, use AR for training, and deploy connected ambulances for emergencies. These advancements improve patient outcomes, reduce costs, and make healthcare more accessible, especially in rural areas. Integrating 5G with cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI) and devices connected to the internet can ensure accurate, timely transmission and analysis of medical data.
5G technology takes entertainment to the next level of fun and excitement
Cloud computing processes and stores data over the internet, allowing healthcare providers to access and share patient information quickly and securely from anywhere. Appliances and devices connected to the internet that can collect and exchange data, like wearable health monitors and smart medical equipment, are collectively called the Internet of Things (IoT).
These technologies enable continuous monitoring of patient vital signs and immediate data sharing with healthcare professionals. During Covid lockdowns in 2020, 5G-enabled telemedicine proved invaluable for remote consultations, reducing the risk of virus transmission. As technology evolves, it continues to streamline healthcare operations, improve resource allocation, and provide more equitable access to medical expertise and services.
5G and transport
5G technology can help make public and personal transport easier, safer, and more connected. It enables electric cars to communicate with other vehicles and traffic systems, making driving less stressful and more efficient. Quicker, more reliable data can help self-driving cars to navigate more smoothly.
Trains also benefit from real-time monitoring, ensuring they run on time. Special 5G features can create dedicated networks for specific needs, making overall transport operations more effective. Buses and trains can plan routes better and avoid delays, leading to a smoother travel experience. If there’s an emergency, 5G can also speed up emergency response times.
Better communication and entertainment
5G can deliver crystal-clear video calls and instant messaging without annoying delays. Team collaboration improves with faster, more reliable internet connections, whether you’re in the next room or kilometres away. Improved speeds and capacity mean fewer dropped calls or frozen screens, making virtual meetings smoother than ever before.
5G lets you stream your favourite movies and TV shows in HD, with no buffering or lag. It also opens up a world of possibilities for immersive gaming and virtual reality. From exploring virtual worlds to interacting with augmented reality apps, 5G technology takes entertainment to the next level of fun and excitement. Whether you’re a content creator, a gamer, or just someone who loves to stay connected, 5G technology empowers you to do more online, faster.
