We’re entering the 5G phase, and although it hasn’t yet resulted in the smartphone disruption that some predicted, it quite well might in the coming years. While the current 5G is superior to 4G, it only provides minor increases in data rates; but, in the long run, it can greatly increase download speeds, virtually eradicate latency, and minimize congestion on mobile networks.

In other terms, 5G will outperform the current Wi-Fi service.

Although Wi-Fi and 5G will be matched against each other, all indications point to the need for all systems to truly exploit the internet of tomorrow. Although 5G would certainly be beneficial in certain cases, Wi-Fi, which is also being built and upgraded, will be helpful in others. And, as with the case of 5G home broadband, they may wind up cooperating to boost the wireless network.

What is the distinction between 5G and Wi-Fi?

We provide a lengthy overview of what 5G is, so in a nutshell, 5G is the overarching word for the fifth generation of wireless network infrastructure, which includes several separate components. Cellular networks depend on approved spectrum bands that are auctioned off to the highest bidder. Carriers such as Verizon and AT&T would compensate to utilize certain bands. 

To provide coverage, they must build a network of linked base stations capable of sending out a signal powerful enough for the network to service many users (thousands in metropolitan areas) at the same time. They depend on us paying subscriptions to recoup their expenditure and extend network infrastructure.

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Wi-Fi operates on unlicensed bandwidth, and is open to the public but has a relatively poor signal. We pay an internet service provider (ISP) to bring internet to our entrance, and then we use a router to cover our whole house with Wi-Fi. 

Using the same Wi-Fi frequency band as your neighbours may be inconvenient, particularly if you reside in a heavily populated area with restricted bandwidth. Wi-Fi operates on two frequencies: 2.4GHz and 5GHz. In layman’s words, 2.4GHz has a lower theoretical peak speed but penetrates more, giving it a longer range than 5GHz, which can deliver greater speeds but does not penetrate objects like walls as well.

It is important to note that 5GHz Wi-Fi has little to do with 5G cell networks. Despite the fact, the Verizon 5G home broadband crosses the line.

In our daily lives, most of us depend on a Wi-Fi network at home, at work, or in coffee shops, as well as cell networks when we leave the house and are out of control of the router. Our phones turn immediately, and we don’t think about it; what matters is that we already have a strong link. As 5G begins to phase out, the overwhelming number of citizens will remain in this situation. The distinction is that both cell networks and Wi-Fi would have improved results.

The 5G Pledge

The promise of download rates ranging from 1Gbps to 10Gbps and upload speeds ranging from 1 millisecond (ms) to 1 millisecond (ms) has citizens dreaming for a more stable 5G network. Those rates are equivalent to those of a real, wired link. However, we are unable to achieve anything close to the potential peak speeds. And if we did, it wouldn’t be for at least another five years.

The exact speed of your 5G connectivity would be determined by a variety of variables, including where you are, what network you are connecting to, how many other users are connecting, and the system you are connecting to. 

The aim is to reach a minimum download speed of 50Mbps and a latency of no more than 10ms. This would be a significant increase on current average frequencies, however, as with 4G LTE, 5G coverage will be gradually expanded. According to a Speedcheck report, we currently have an average download speed of about 57Mbps. That means the bare minimum is much lower.

It will still operate in tandem with not only Wi-Fi but also previous iterations of cellular technologies, so 4G LTE will be available as a backup and will most definitely begin to evolve and get stronger.

The promise of WI-FI6

In terms of common naming conventions, Wi-Fi has historically become quite complicated. It progressed from 802.11b to 802.11a, 802.11g, 802.11n, and finally 802.11ac.

Since the Wi-Fi Alliance (and the business as a whole) recognized the need for something less complicated, the next model, 802.11ax, is marketed as Wi-Fi 6. This more straightforward naming scheme is now being extended retroactively, meaning 802.11ac can become Wi-Fi 5, and so on. 

The latest Wi-Fi 6 specification provides higher speeds — at least four times faster than Wi-Fi 5 in some circumstances — but it also brings reliability and performance enhancements intended to deal with the growing amount of internet-connected wireless devices in the typical household. Wi-Fi 6 would, like 5G, supplement rather than substitute current Wi-Fi requirements, particularly given that individual devices would continue to follow newer Wi-Fi models as well. Max Wi-Fi 6 rates theoretically level out at about 9.6Gbps, but you’ll almost certainly never reach it in real-world use of your internet service.

What do you need to enjoy 5G or Wi-Fi 6 service?

Both 5G and Wi-Fi 6 are fairly commonly accessible at this period. Carriers have already deployed regional 5G networks based on the Sub-6 spectrum, and they want to extend the network by incorporating mid-band and high-band spectrum to supplement it.

To use Wi-Fi 6, you’ll need a router that meets the norm, as well as a 5G phone or laptop that supports it. Most newer smartphones, particularly higher-end models, support both 5G and Wi-Fi 6. Eventually, all tablets, laptops, and other electronic devices can support both requirements.

The future of internet connectivity

When more routers incorporate Wi-Fi 6, and as more mobile towers beam out 5G networks, our internet speeds, both at home and on the go, can improve, with lower latency. More innovations and 5G smartphones will emerge as well. Like 4G-based advancements such as online mobile games and mobile video have enabled, 5G speed would allow a variety of additional usage cases such as wired vehicles.

Of course, only time can say what the future of cellular technologies and internet access brings, but expect to hear the words “5G” and “Wi-Fi 6” a lot more in the coming years. Slower speeds would eventually become obsolete.