Why is 5G important for the Internet of Things?

The fifth generation of network bandwidth arrives with a greater purpose – bringing the world’s devices closer together and building a smart IoT ecosystem. This is a significant step forward compared to its predecessor, 4G, which enabled media streaming across devices. From here, 5G will not only improve this efficiency, but also improve device-to-device communications in homes and factories.

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It is expected that 50 billion IoT devices will be deployed by 2030. It is the “5G factor” that is accelerating user adoption and generating widespread interest.

However, the market is more ready than you think. The world’s leading service providers have already published case studies on the usability of 5G to perform complex network operations for both personal and industrial settings. For example, GSMA is offering smart grid 5G network slicing as part of the 106 global launches they have completed. Similarly, Ericsson has an impressive portfolio of case studies using 5G for commercial purposes such as mission-critical communications, smart energy distribution, mining automation, and more.

Even more impressive is floLIVE’s global network, which provides a digital infrastructure to power the IoT ecosystem through 5G. The global connectivity provider has a cloud-native platform that delivers the world’s first Software Defined Connectivity (SDC) solution. The platform uses patented SIM bootstrap technology to provide uninterrupted cellular connectivity to devices anywhere in the world.

That being said, it is equally important and interesting to understand the driving forces. 5G is more than just faster internet. Not only does it reduce the reliance on expensive and hard-to-maintain hardware infrastructure, but it also meets the massive data demands of big data analytics.

How is 5G better?

While 4G enabled a lot of streaming at a convenient speed of 2Gbps, 5G will provide 10 times faster and stronger network bandwidth at close to 20Gbps. It is not wrong to say that 5G can replace wired fiber networks. For IoT, lightning-fast network speeds are very important because most devices operate with real-time updates only. Consider a simple home IoT use case. Here, cameras, locking systems, doors, alarms, and other devices are all connected together. Building this surveillance system can only perform if it provides instant updates. If any delay at this level is unacceptable, then imagine the expectations in an industrial setting.

With the amount of data growing at a record pace, the infrastructure that transmits it should do the same. That’s exactly what 5G provides.

Network slicing: dividing bandwidth for dedicated business needs

In short, network slicing divides available network bandwidth into multiple independent virtual networks - each targeting specific business needs. Today, the Internet of Things is a combination of different hardware and software elements, each with very unique network requirements. Unless this requirement is successfully met, it is almost impractical to include a variety of devices for product growth.

5G makes it easier to allocate parent bandwidth for the proprietary business needs of various applications within a single IoT ecosystem. Given that customizing network parameters is so easy, accelerated adoption of the IoT finally looks achievable.

However, 5G is more than just better internet. It simplifies the creation of on-demand private networks.

IoT cannot thrive without overhauling our connectivity infrastructure at the local level. This means that the internet should be uninterrupted within restricted areas. At the same time, many of these private institutions have exclusive and stringent requirements for security and QoS. Now the beauty of 5G is its ability to fill the gap by providing a seamless private network to closed compounds. With a cloud-native core network, factories, hospitals, smart logistics, research labs, etc. can have a private 5G network that ensures worry-free security, compliance, performance, and services.

That said, private network applications are not limited to limited locations. Using multiple public RANs, it is also possible to establish a private core network in multiple locations within a country. In short, it is like leveraging the convenience of a virtual private network without actually connecting to an external network. Global Network Solutions provides a reliable infrastructure to create private 5G slices for global enterprises, ensuring security, performance, and quality of service around the world!

Unlocking a world of IoT and 5G opportunities

5G is developing at a record-breaking pace, building communications for a smarter future. Large-scale initiatives such as smart cities, IIoT, and remote work are just some of the popular use cases that are adopting 5G at the foundational layer. Looking ahead, there are many opportunities waiting for you to harness the power of 5G and the Internet of Things. Are you ready?