5g seems slower
- Coverage and Signal Strength:
- Millimeter Wave (mmWave) vs. Sub-6 GHz: 5G operates on multiple frequency bands. The higher frequency bands (mmWave) provide faster speeds but have limited coverage and are easily blocked by obstacles like buildings or even trees. On the other hand, the sub-6 GHz bands offer broader coverage but may not deliver the ultra-fast speeds touted for 5G.
- Signal Interference: 5G signals can be more susceptible to interference from physical barriers, such as walls or other objects, leading to a reduced signal strength and slower speeds.
- Network Congestion:
- Just like any network, 5G can experience congestion, especially in densely populated areas or during peak usage times. When many users connect to the same cell tower, it can result in reduced speeds for everyone. This issue is not unique to 5G but can be more noticeable due to the higher expectations set by 5G's capabilities.
- Device Limitations:
- Hardware and Antennas: Not all 5G-enabled devices are created equal. Some may have better antennas or modem capabilities than others. A device's ability to connect to 5G, maintain a stable connection, or switch between 4G and 5G seamlessly can influence perceived speeds.
- Software and Firmware: Software optimizations, network configurations, and firmware updates can affect the performance of a 5G device. Outdated software or firmware might not leverage the full potential of the network.
- Backend Infrastructure:
- Network Deployment: The rollout of 5G involves upgrading existing infrastructure and deploying new equipment. Issues like incomplete deployment, outdated backhaul connections, or inefficient network configurations can impact speed and reliability.
- Edge Computing: While 5G promises lower latency and faster speeds, the benefits of technologies like edge computing might not be fully realized if the necessary infrastructure isn't in place.
- Service Provider Policies:
- Some service providers might throttle speeds for specific services, offer varying speed tiers based on pricing, or prioritize certain types of traffic. These policies can affect the perceived speed of 5G for end-users.
- Comparison with Expectations:
- Marketing often creates high expectations. While 5G can provide significantly faster speeds than 4G in optimal conditions, real-world scenarios might not always match the hype. Factors like distance from the cell tower, interference, device capabilities, and network load can influence actual speeds.
5G technology promises faster speeds and lower latency, various technical challenges, infrastructure limitations, device factors, and real-world conditions can affect its performance. Addressing these challenges requires continuous improvements in network deployment, device capabilities, backend infrastructure, and user education.