Sub-1 GHz Bands (Low-Band): These frequencies offer better coverage and penetration but have lower data transfer rates. In Europe, the 700 MHz band is one such example.
1-6 GHz Bands (Mid-Band): This is considered the "sweet spot" for 5G as it balances coverage and capacity. Frequencies in the 3.4-3.8 GHz range, known as the C-Band, are commonly used in Europe for 5G.
24-100 GHz (High-Band or Millimeter Wave): These bands offer very high data rates but have limited coverage. In Europe, some countries might allocate frequencies in the 26 GHz range for 5G.
Radio Access Network (RAN):
5G uses a combination of macro cells, small cells, and Massive MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) antennas to provide coverage and capacity. Massive MIMO involves using a large number of antennas to increase data throughput and improve network efficiency.
Modulation and Coding:
5G uses advanced modulation and coding schemes to transmit data efficiently. Higher-order modulation (e.g., 256-QAM) allows more bits to be transmitted per symbol, increasing data rates.
Core Network:
The 5G core network is designed to be more flexible and scalable than previous generations. It introduces a service-based architecture (SBA) that decouples network functions, allowing for easier customization and deployment of new services.
Network Slicing:
5G supports network slicing, allowing the creation of multiple virtual networks on a shared physical infrastructure. This enables the customization of networks for specific use cases, such as enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine-type communications (mMTC), and ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC).
Latency Reduction:
5G aims to reduce latency significantly compared to previous generations. This is crucial for applications like augmented reality, virtual reality, and real-time communication. Ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) is a key feature for achieving low-latency performance.
Beamforming and Beam Management:
5G systems use beamforming techniques to focus signals in specific directions, optimizing coverage and capacity. This is particularly important in higher frequency bands where signals are more susceptible to obstacles.
Security Enhancements:
5G introduces improvements in security, including stronger encryption algorithms and enhanced authentication mechanisms.
Spectrum Sharing:
Dynamic spectrum sharing allows 5G networks to coexist with 4G networks in the same frequency band, facilitating a smooth transition.
