3G, 4G and 5G are the 3rd, 4th and 5th generations of cellular technology, respectively. The difference between each generation primarily comes down to their capabilities. For example, each generation has made improvements to:
Of course, this is just scratching the surface of what makes these cellular generations different from one another. In this blog, we’ll go a bit further, discussing the history and evolution of each network.
We’ll also share how 3G and 4G improved the home security space, and what homeowners can expect from 5G in the near future.
Ackerman is at the forefront of the 5G security revolution. If you have questions about how 5G will impact your home’s security, you can reach out to us directly at 800.552.1111, or schedule an instant security quote online.
According to digital trends, 3G can reach network speeds of 7.2 mbps, 4G can reach network speeds of 150 mbps and 5G will eventually reach speeds in excess of 1gbps (with a theoretical maximum of 20gbps!)
Mileage varies depending on whether the individual browser is stationary or, say, in a moving vehicle. But this is the gist of what a user can achieve speed-wise with each generation.
But what do those speeds actually mean, anyway? Or rather, what do those speeds allow us to accomplish?
Let’s take a look:
Bandwidth determines how much traffic a cellular network can handle before the network begins to slow down. Each generation of cellular network has improved upon the bandwidth capabilities of its predecessor.
Home security isn’t precisely impacted by 5g bandwidth changes. Bandwidth upgrades to a home’s personal WiFi network such as WiFi 6, however, allow for more connected devices and fewer device disconnections.
Each new generation of wireless network has expanded upon the infrastructure of the network which came before it. The result is a significant increase in accessibility and internet access. Even the most isolated regions of the U.S. will soon have 4G or 5G access.
This is great news for homes and businesses that weren’t within reach of dependable cellular networks. These properties can now move away from outdated landline security monitoring and switch to a much more secure cellular network for their security needs.
Homes today are more secure than ever before. And this trend has increased with each generation of cellular networking.
Here are just a few examples of where these improvements have been made:
Response times:
Each generation of cellular network has increased the speed at which an alarm monitoring station is alerted to a home break-in or other emergency.
Less susceptible to sabotage:
The biggest flaw of early landline monitoring was its single point of failure: the landline itself. Cutting the landline also cut off the home’s security system. 3G and 4G networks fixed this issue by removing the landline entirely and connecting the security to a home’s WiFi network.
5G networks will continue this trend. Today’s point of failure in security systems is the WiFi network itself. With a WiFi jammer, any burglar can gain access to your home. With 5G however, home security monitoring may move directly onto the cellular network itself, which would be impossible for a burglar to crack.
Simplified personal monitoring:
Streaming security cameras, smart doorbells, and other connected home devices increase in speed and capabilities with each generation of cellular network. 5G will expand upon 4G’s success in this regard, ensuring even faster streaming times and faster alerts and notifications in the event of an emergency or home break-in.
Ackerman relies on WiFi networks and cellular networks to monitor our customer’s homes. With the advent of 5G technology, the older 2G and 3G networks will eventually be phased out (2020 for 2G and 2021 for 3G). We’re here to help our customers navigate this transition and protect their homes in the 5G era.
Call us at 800.552.1111 or schedule an instant security quote online.