Emerging information about the performance capabilities of 5G has sparked a debate that puts fiber and 5G on opposing sides. People want to know which is better and which technology will prevail in the future.
In this article, we take a closer look at the on-going fiber VS. 5G debate and try to give you a new perspective on the matter.
The thing is that the fiber vs. 5G debate is based on an incorrect assumption that one technology will replace the other because this is not the case. Both fiber and 5G technologies are expected to co-exist because 5G’s wireless networking will rely heavily on fiber networks to deliver all its capabilities.
Fiber optic networks and 5G
The greatest advantage of fiber optic networks is that it is a high-speed wireline that can deliver faster speeds, better security, and higher bandwidth for 5g internet. They are much more stable and reliable than copper networks. Currently, optical fiber technology is the best medium for long-haul networks because it can maintain excellent performance over long distances.
The use of fiber has expanded tremendously in the last few years and has replaced copper in access networks. The biggest drawback of copper is that it is only capable of carrying a gigabit signal for 300 feet before signal loss occur.
A unique way of looking at 5G wireless network technology is that it will bring some of the best capabilities of fiber to mobile devices.
Future Fiber Implementation Will Shape The Future Of 5G
It is expected that 5G will be partially available in late 2019; however, extensive fiber networks are being laid out before the 5G is deployed.
Governments and some of the biggest 5G providers have been investing in fiber deployment; it is essential that the investment continues to be a priority because the success of the 5G will depend on the fiber backhaul infrastructure. According to the recent estimates, an investment of over $150 billion is required for fiber infrastructure in the U.S. alone to ensure that 5G technology reaches its full potential.
The timing is also crucial! The failure to establish a strong fiber infrastructure in the near future will result in many missed opportunities and will cause the US to lag. It is expected that 5Gwill create hundreds of thousands of new jobs for people in almost every sector
How 5G Works: Moving From Macro Cells To Small Cells
Until now, 4G networks have been working on macro cell towers. The radio frequency spectrums of 4G covered vast distances. However, 4G is not able to cope with the growing demands for higher speeds, latency, and bandwidth.
5G wireless networks will work on higher frequency waves that will provide greater bandwidth and lower latency.
The only drawback is that the 5G waves will cover short distances of about 200 KM, which means providers will have to switch from macro cells to smaller cells. A network of small cells for 5G networking means that there will also be a need for strong fiber optic network installation for backhaul.
