In the debate of Long Term Evolution (LTE) 4G versus 5G, arguments need to take into account the key differences in network architecture, the applications and their requirements.
The evolution of LTE, a cellular wireless standard for 4G to 5G represents a big step in telecommunications technology. Network architecture is the backbone for mobile communications and important in understanding the efficiency, speed, latency and overall capabilities of LTE 4G and 5G.
The development of LTE can be traced back to 2004, when the mobile standards organisation 3GPP initiated the LTE project as part of its Release 8 specifications. The driving forces behind LTE were to improve data rates, reduce latency and provide a strong platform for mobile broadband services. LTE was designed as an all-IP (Internet Protocol) network which meant communications including voice were carried over to IP-based networks.
Mobile communications are constantly looking to improve, and early discussions around 5G centered on increased data rates as high-definition video streaming became more commonplace and demanded more, while the proliferation of IoT devices made a case for a network capable of supporting billions of connected devices.
Even now, conversations about what 6G might look like are on the horizon – as 2G and 3G networks hosting legacy devices are being retired. The growth of IoT devices is expected to continue, and the demands on networks will only increase in turn.
LTE network architecture
The LTE architecture is built on a flat, all-IP (Internet Protocol) structure, which significantly reduces latency compared with previous generations. The core components of the LTE network include the following:
- Evolved Packet Core (EPC): The EPC is the central element of the LTE network, responsible for managing data traffic, user authentication, and mobility management. It includes elements such as the Mobility Management Entity (MME), Serving Gateway (SGW), and Packet Data Network Gateway (PGW).
- Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN): This component handles the radio communications between mobile devices and the network. The E-UTRAN consists of base stations known as eNodeBs, which provide wireless connectivity to users
- Macro Cells: LTE networks primarily rely on macro cells—large cell towers that cover extensive geographical areas. These macro cells are designed to provide wide coverage and support a high number of users simultaneously
While LTE delivered significant improvements over 3G, it had limitations, particularly in its reliance on macro cells and a relatively rigid network structure. These limitations became more evident as the demand for higher data rates and more connected devices grew, and 5G was developed in response.
5G network architecture
5G’s network architecture differentiates from 4G in a few, key ways:
- From macro cells to small cells
A significant change is the shift from relying on macro cells to a more diverse and dense network of small cells; low-power base stations that cover much smaller areas.
The densification of this network increases capacity as the deployment of a larger number of small cells can support a higher density of devices and users; higher data rates and improved coverage.
- Network slicing
Network slicing allows operators to create multiple virtual networks, or “slices,” on top of a single physical infrastructure. Each slice can be customised to meet the specific requirements of different applications or services.
As one example, a slice designed for autonomous vehicles might prioritise low latency and high reliability, while a slice for IoT devices could focus on low power consumption and wide coverage.
Network slicing is made possible by the use of software-defined networking (SDN) and network function virtualisation (NFV) technologies, which decouple network functions from the underlying hardware. This virtualisation allows network operators to allocate resources and adjust network parameters in real-time.
- Massive MIMO
Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology is used in both 4G and 5G networks to increase capacity and data rates. However, 5G takes this a step further with the introduction of Massive MIMO.
Massive MIMO involves using a large number of antennas (sometimes hundreds) on a single base station. This enables the network to support more simultaneous users and improve spectral efficiency. The use of beamforming technology, which directs signals to specific users rather than broadcasting them in all directions, further enhances the performance of 5G networks.
Conclusion
The transition from 4G to 5G networks represents the ongoing improvement in mobile communications and the continual awareness about improving data speeds and rates for IoT devices. In looking to address the greater demands placed on their networks, mobile network operators (MNOs) could take their cue from Vodafone, who moved their IoT connectivity division into a new company in April 2024, in an acknowledgement of how networks servicing IoT has become its own beast. Investigating the network architecture for LTE 4G and 5G gives enterprises an understanding of what network to choose.
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