Introduction
Fifth Generation (5G) networks offer promising solutions for a myriad of issues encountered in information technology. With network speeds of upto-20-gigabits per second, 5G could revolutionize specialized tasks in IT. According to Lee (2019), it enhances network processes in remote precision medicine, vehicle-to-vehicle communication, virtual and augmented reality, IoT applications and information sharing. Notably, the current generation of smart devices and multimedia applications handle large amounts of data that require consistent and reliable internet connections (Lee, 2019). 5G not only improves on the strengths of 4G but also provides high capacity, faster data rates, high-quality service, and lower latency (Lee, 2019). However, government level concerns and hesitations are still impeding the growth of 5G networks (Peters & Besley, 2019). To enroll 5G networks various regulations must be achieved and relevant information dispensed to network providers. In addition, deploying 5G millimeter wave bands requires broader bandwidths, which are costly to set up (Peters & Besley, 2019). The innovation of next generation networks (NGN) 1 such as 5G offers countless opportunities for educational, research and communicational fields.
Areas of Interest
Fast development of information technology has brought about the emergence of new technology in big data analysis, artificial intelligence among other sectors (Morgado et al., 2018). For instance, in the current world, mobile data is an indispensable part of society because billions of people depend on it daily. According to Morgado et al. (2018), 5G networks handle sizeable amounts of data that require “high throughput per device per area of efficiency.” Larger data transfer means increased traffic rates (Peters & Besley, 2019). Over the past few years, researchers have identified innovative means of connecting real-world entities through the IoT (Peters & Besley, 2019). It provides a framework through which non-computing devices including sensors can be connected and provides reliable information in a timely fashion (Morgado et al., 2018). These technologies could record, interpret, and transmit data with minimal human intervention (Morgado et al., 2018). Currently, USA, Germany, China, Japan, South Korea, United Arab Emirates, Sweden, Turkey have already rolled out 5G networks in their major cities (Peters & Besley, 2019). Ericcsons’ is leading 5G integration in Middle East and African countries (Peters & Besley, 2019). However, security challenges have limited operations of companies such as Huawei in the US (Peters & Besley, 2019). The National Security Council has issued a warning to the international community that Huawei’s 5G network contains “back doors” 2 increasing vulnerability to cyber-spying (Peters & Besley, 2019). Therefore, integrating 5G means 100-times increase in IoT efficiency (Peters & Besley, 2019).
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Research Findings
Granted, 5G will be a prime determinant of whether nations take part in the global digital economy. Lee (2019) suggests that more than 500 billion devices within IoT will be connected through 5G by 2030. These estimations are based on the high speeds that 5G offers. Morgado et al. (2018) contend that 5G offers multiple tens of gigabytes per second. Recent tests with 5G Verizon millimeter-wave networks in the USA indicate that downloading a high definition movie takes seconds (Morgado et al., 2018). IT also offers high data rates per unit area meaning that a wide array of devices can be connected simultaneously. Additionally, 5G offers high response times referred to as ultra-low latency (Morgado et al., 2018). This technology is particularly useful in the fields of multimedia and VR and AR applications (Morgado et al., 2018). Millimeter-Wave is preferred in the US due to its low-band spectrum of 6 GHz (Morgado et al., 2018). It allows for seamless coverage and high mobile compatibility (Peters & Besley, 2019). The US aims to use 5G in information technology to develop smart cities, where IoT devices reduce the number of tasks human beings accomplish every day. Lee (2019) suggests that 5G in IT could transform the experience of minority communities in schools. African Americans still face challenges interacting with medical providers, engaging with Internet-based government services, and completing assignments (Lee, 2019). 5G networks provide opportunities for these populations to improve their experiences in education, social and economic contexts (Peters & Besley, 2019).
Courses of Action
Consequently, new enrollment of 5G network requires that governments work together in implementing 5G guidelines (Peters & Besley, 2019). Nokia, Ericcson, and Huawei offer 5G services to different parts of the world. Contrary to the findings of US, the UAE telecom indicates that it has not identified any vulnerability with Huawei networks (Peters & Besley, 2019). Peters and Besley (2019) contend that US bans are an issue of contention between the west and the east. It is an attempt to stall the latter’s development of 5G networks (Peters & Besley, 2019). Such unhealthy competition means delayed 5G deployment. With international standards, all 5G companies can operate on a similar platform and undergo unbiased vetting on their security risks (Morgado et al., 2018). Currently, the FCC has approved millimeter-waves in the 28 GHz, 37 GHz, and 39 GHz bands in the US. 3 Existing 5G networks are only using the 28GHz wave (Morgado et al., 2018). Increased funding could facilitate expansion into the remaining bands and identify the health aspects involved in venturing into broader bandwidths (Morgado et al., 2018). Additionally, countries must also increase awareness on 5G connectivity to dispel misconceptions (Lee, 2019). Phone manufacturers must provide affordable devices that allow a larger segment of the population to access Internet connection.
Conclusion
In brief, 5G innovation is still under continuous development with more technologies expected to launch in the near future. Research indicates that application of 5G networks into healthcare, educational, industrial, transportation, and energy-use fields could reduce operational and service delivery costs. This robust technology will serve as a breakthrough in the Internet world. By offering more people of color access to faster Internet, governments could enhance education and success outcomes in high need communities. International disagreements on 5G networks causes a digital divide leading to social isolation for less fortunate citizens. Indeed, 5G networks offer powerful communications, which are energy efficient. To this end, stakeholders including network companies, Smartphone manufacturers, governments, and IT experts must cooperate to ensure smooth transition into this new era of connectivity.
References
Lee, N. T. (2019, January 9). Enabling opportunities: 5G, the internet of things, and communities of color. The Brookings Institution . https://www.brookings.edu/research/enabling-opportunities-5g-the-internet-of-things-and-communities-of-color/
Morgado, A., Saidul, K. M., Mumtaz, S., & Rodriguez, J. (2018). A survey of 5G technologies: regulatory, standardization and industrial perspectives. Digital Communications and Networks , 4(2), 87-97. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dcan.2017.09.010
Peters, M., & Besley, T. (2019). 5G transformational advanced wireless futures. Educational Philosophy and Theory , 1-6. https://doi.org/10.1080/00131857.2019.1684802
