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Contrast in Internet speeds between GPRS, EDGE, 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G.
The fifth generation technology standard, 5G, is the next big step for cellular networks and fiber optic operators. It is the planned successor to 4G networks, which currently provide Internet connectivity for most cell phones and other technologies.
Chances are you’ve already heard a lot of information about 5G and how fast it is compared to 4G. But if 5G is only one gigabyte larger compared to its successor, how different could connectivity speeds really be? Here we will look at the differences in speeds between GPRS, EDGE, 2G, 3G, 4G and finally 5G so you can see for yourself why this next technological shift is so big.
GPRS and EDGE
GPRS, or General Packet Radio Service, a packet-based wireless communication service, which means that data is divided into small blocks and transmitted over several channels. The data is then reassembled in its original order once it arrives at its designated destination. GPRS supports a download speed of 114 Kbps. It is a 2G technology network. The key limitation of GPRS that you will probably remember from Internet Dial-Up is that you cannot send while a voice call is in progress.
EDGE, or Enhanced Data GSM Evolution, is another type of 2G technology network. EDGE is slightly faster than GPRS with a download speed twice as fast at 384 Kbps. Because of its speed, it is sometimes referred to as a 2.5G network.
3G and 4G technology networks
With the introduction of 3G technology networks, both video calls and video streaming became possible. This technology network has a download speed of approximately 3.1 Mbps, a significant increase over EDGE. High-speed downlink packet access, HSDPA, builds on the 3G network with a download speed of approximately 14 Mbps and built the bridge to 4G thanks to its faster speed.
4G LTE (Long Term Evolution) is the current communication standard. With a download speed of up to 299.6Mbps, 4G communication supports HD video streaming and near seamless connectivity. However, with more people working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic, 4G fluency has become a bit less.
The 5G technology network
5G connectivity is the next step for fiber optic and communication networks. Fiber optic operators can expect a lot from 5G. Currently, 4G networks reach a maximum of approximately 100 megabits per second, while 5G reaches a maximum of 10 gigabits per second. As a frame of reference, the fastest speed ever recorded on a single fiber line is 43 terabits per second. Ultimately, that makes 5G approximately 100 times faster than current 4G technology.
Of course, moving forward with 5G technology networks requires the right fiber optic carrier. That’s where UFINET comes in. UFINET is a neutral fiber optic operator in the wholesale telecommunications market that provides capacity and connectivity services when needed. For more information about fiber capacity and our services, contact UFINET today.
