Sign in Subscribe

4g and lte difference

Last updated on 


The terms "4G" and "LTE" are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different aspects of mobile network technology. Let's delve into the technical details of both and understand the differences:

4G (Fourth Generation):

  1. Definition:
    • 4G is the fourth generation of mobile network technology, succeeding 3G (Third Generation). It represents a significant advancement in terms of data speed, capacity, and overall performance.
  2. Key Features:
    • Higher data rates: 4G aims to provide faster data transfer rates compared to 3G.
    • Low latency: Reduced time delays in data transmission.
    • Improved spectral efficiency: Better utilization of available frequency spectrum.
    • All-IP Network: 4G is based on an all-IP (Internet Protocol) network architecture.
  3. Technology Standards:
    • 4G encompasses different technologies, and the two prominent standards are:
      • LTE (Long-Term Evolution): LTE is a key technology within the 4G framework and provides high-speed wireless communication for mobile devices.

LTE (Long-Term Evolution):

  1. Definition:
    • LTE is a specific technology standard within the 4G umbrella. It represents a set of enhancements to existing 3G networks and is designed to offer higher data rates and improved performance.
  2. Key Features:
    • OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access): LTE uses OFDMA for downlink communication, allowing multiple users to share the same frequency channel simultaneously.
    • SC-FDMA (Single Carrier Frequency Division Multiple Access): Used for uplink communication, SC-FDMA helps in reducing power consumption in mobile devices.
    • MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output): LTE employs MIMO to enhance data rates and system capacity by using multiple antennas at both the transmitter and receiver ends.
    • IP-based Network: Like 4G in general, LTE operates on an all-IP network architecture.
  3. Evolution:
    • LTE is part of the evolution path from 3G to 4G. It is often referred to as 3.9G due to its transitional nature.
  4. Release Versions:
    • LTE has evolved through different releases. The initial release is often referred to as LTE Release 8, and subsequent releases introduced additional features and improvements.

Summary of Differences:

  • 4G: Refers to the overall fourth generation of mobile network technology, encompassing various standards.
  • LTE: Specifically refers to a technology standard within the 4G framework, providing enhancements for high-speed wireless communication.

In essence, LTE is a key technology that contributes to the realization of 4G, and when people talk about 4G networks, they often mean networks that use LTE technology.