Generation of Network

What is the Generation of Network?

Over the past few decades, there has been a significant transformation in the generation of network infrastructure.

The term "Generation of Network" in mobile wireless refers to a shift in the system's characteristics, speed, technology, frequency, data capacity, and latency.

Each generation introduces new standards, capacities, techniques, and features that set it apart from its predecessor.

  • The original mobile network, 1G, was analogue and only supported voice calls.
  • 2G introduced digital technology and enabled text messaging.
  • 3G improved data transmission rates, and capacity, and added multimedia support.
  • 4G combined 3G with fixed internet to create wireless mobile internet, enhancing bandwidth and reducing costs.
  • The 5th Generation, 5G, will revolutionize the mobile market with unprecedented high bandwidth and advanced features, making it highly sought after in the future.

1G – First Generation of Network

Nippon Telephone and Telegraph Company (NTT) established the initial mobile network in Tokyo, Japan, in 1979.

By the early 1980s, it became popular in the US, Finland, UK, and Europe.

This system utilized analogue signals and faced various drawbacks because of technological constraints.

In the 1980s, the Advanced Mobile Phone System (AMPS), Nordic Mobile Phone System (NMTS), Total Access Communication System (TACS), and European Total Access Communication System (ETACS) gained widespread popularity as 1G systems.

Features of 1G Network

The 1G system operates on frequencies of 800 MHz and 900 MHz, providing a bandwidth of 10 MHz.

It utilizes analogue switching technology and frequency modulation (FM) for modulation.

The system primarily supports voice services and employs Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA) for access.

Disadvantages of 1G Network

Disadvantages of the 1G system include poor voice quality caused by interference, short battery life, bulky mobile phones that are inconvenient to carry, inadequate security as calls could be decoded using an FM demodulator, a limited number of users and cell coverage, and the inability to roam between similar systems.

2G – Second Generation of Network

The next iteration of mobile communication systems brought forth a novel digital technology for wireless transmission, commonly referred to as the Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM).

This technology set the foundation for future advancements in wireless standards, supporting data rates ranging from 14.4 to 64kbps, ample for SMS and email services.

In the mid-1990s, Qualcomm introduced the Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) system, which boasted superior spectral efficiency, user capacity, and data rates compared to GSM.

Features of 2G Network

The 2G system offers several important features.

It is a digital system that allows for efficient switching between calls.

Additionally, it enables SMS services, roaming capabilities, and enhanced security measures.

Moreover, it provides encrypted voice transmission and was the first system to introduce internet access, albeit at lower data rates.

Disadvantages of 2G Network

The 2G system has several disadvantages.

Firstly, it offers a low data rate, which means slower internet speeds and limited capacity for data-intensive tasks.

Secondly, it has limited mobility, restricting users to certain areas where network coverage is available.

Additionally, mobile devices on 2G networks have fewer features compared to newer generations, limiting their functionality.

Lastly, the 2G system can only support a limited number of users and has limited hardware capability, which can lead to congestion and reduced performance.

3G – Third Generation of Network

The era of 3G mobile communication began with the launch of UMTS, offering a data rate of 384 kbps and enabling video calling on mobile devices for the first time.

Following the introduction of 3G, smartphones gained widespread popularity worldwide, leading to the development of specialized applications for multimedia chat, email, video calling, games, social media, and healthcare.

Features of 3G Network

The 3G system offers a range of impressive features. It provides higher data rates, allowing for faster internet speeds and smoother browsing.

Additionally, it supports video calling, enhancing communication capabilities.

The system also boasts enhanced security measures, accommodating more users and providing wider coverage.

With mobile app support, multimedia message capabilities, and location tracking features, the 3G system offers a comprehensive mobile experience.

Furthermore, it enables TV streaming and supports high-quality 3D games, ensuring entertainment options for users.

Disadvantages of 3G Network

There are several disadvantages associated with 3G systems.

Firstly, the spectrum licenses required for these systems can be quite expensive.

Additionally, the infrastructure, equipment, and implementation costs are also high.

Moreover, 3G systems require higher bandwidth to support higher data rates, which can be a costly affair.

Furthermore, mobile devices compatible with 3G systems tend to be expensive.

Lastly, there can be compatibility issues with older generation 2G systems and frequency bands.

4G – Fourth Generation of Network

4G networks, an advancement from 3G systems by IEEE, provide higher data rates and support more advanced multimedia services.

LTE and LTE Advanced technologies are utilized in 4th generation networks, ensuring compatibility with previous versions for easier deployment and upgrades.

LTE systems enable simultaneous voice and data transmission, leading to improved data rates, with all services, including voice, being transmitted over IP packets.

Complex modulation schemes and carrier aggregation are employed to increase uplink/downlink capacity.

WiMax and other wireless transmission technologies are integrated into 4G systems to boost data rates and enhance network performance.

Features of 4G Network

The 4G system offers a faster data rate of up to 1Gbps, enhanced security, and improved mobility for users.

It also provides reduced latency, making it ideal for mission-critical applications.

With 4G, you can enjoy high-definition video streaming and gaming experiences.

Additionally, the system supports Voice over LTE network (VoLTE), ensuring high-quality voice calls.

Disadvantages of 4G Network

Disadvantages of 4G technology include pricey hardware and infrastructure, as well as costly spectrum in many countries due to expensive frequency bands.

Additionally, using high-end mobile devices that are compatible with 4G technology can be expensive.

Furthermore, the wide deployment and upgrade of 4G systems can be time-consuming.

5G – Fifth Generation of Network

The 5G network utilizes cutting-edge technologies to provide customers with incredibly fast internet speeds and an enhanced multimedia experience.

As LTE advanced networks evolve, they will transition into powerful 5G networks.

During initial deployments, the 5G network will operate in both non-standalone and standalone modes.

In non-standalone mode, both the LTE spectrum and 5G-NR spectrum will be utilized together, with control signalling connected to the LTE core network.

Features of 5G Network

The main characteristics of 5G technology include:

  • lightning-fast mobile internet speeds of up to 10 Gbps,
  • minimal latency in milliseconds crucial for mission-critical tasks,
  • reduced overall data costs,
  • enhanced network security and reliability,
  • utilization of advanced technologies like small cells and beamforming for improved efficiency,
  • future-forward compatibility for further enhancements, and cloud-based infrastructure for power efficiency,
  • easy maintenance, and
  • hardware upgrades.

Conclusion

The generation of networks from 1G to 5G has brought about significant advancements in technology, data capacity, and speed.

Each generation has introduced new features and capabilities, with 5G promising unprecedented high bandwidth and advanced functionalities that will revolutionize the mobile market in the future.

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