Sign in Subscribe

frequency range of 5g

Last updated on 


The 5G (fifth-generation) cellular network technology operates across a broad frequency range to meet various requirements such as high-speed data, low latency, and massive device connectivity. Let's delve into the technical aspects of the frequency range of 5G:

  1. Frequency Spectrum Allocation:
    • 5G technology utilizes both sub-6 GHz (below 6 GHz) and millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequency bands.
  2. Sub-6 GHz Spectrum:
    • This is the primary frequency range for 5G deployment, especially for wider coverage and better penetration through obstacles like buildings.
    • Low-band: Frequencies below 1 GHz (e.g., 600 MHz, 700 MHz) are part of the low-band spectrum. While they offer wider coverage, the data speeds may not be dramatically higher than 4G LTE.
    • Mid-band: Frequencies between 1 GHz to 6 GHz (e.g., 3.5 GHz or C-band) are categorized as mid-band. These frequencies offer a balance between coverage and capacity. They provide faster speeds than low-band but still have decent coverage.
  3. Millimeter Wave (mmWave) Spectrum:
    • Frequencies in the range of 24 GHz and above are considered mmWave for 5G. These frequencies allow for ultra-high data rates but have limited coverage and are susceptible to obstacles.
    • High-band: Frequencies such as 28 GHz, 39 GHz, and others fall into this category. Due to their high frequencies, they can offer multi-gigabit speeds but have very limited range and are easily obstructed by buildings, trees, and even weather conditions like rain.
  4. Advantages and Challenges:
    • Sub-6 GHz: Provides better coverage and is essential for broad deployment, especially in rural areas. However, it might not achieve the ultra-fast speeds that mmWave can offer.
    • mmWave: Offers incredibly high data rates, making it suitable for densely populated areas, stadiums, or other places with high data demand. The challenge lies in its limited coverage and susceptibility to blockage.
  5. Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS):
    • To ensure efficient utilization of the spectrum and a smooth transition from 4G to 5G, technologies like DSS are employed. DSS allows 4G and 5G technologies to coexist in the same spectrum band, ensuring optimal use of available resources.
  6. Carrier Aggregation:
    • 5G employs carrier aggregation techniques to combine multiple frequency bands (both within 5G bands and with 4G LTE bands) to boost data rates and enhance performance. This is especially crucial in areas where mmWave might not be available, and operators rely on sub-6 GHz bands for increased speeds.

The 5G frequency range is comprehensive, spanning from sub-6 GHz bands for broader coverage and capacity to mmWave for ultra-fast speeds. By leveraging a combination of these frequency bands, 5G networks aim to deliver enhanced user experiences, cater to diverse use cases, and pave the way for innovations in various sectors like IoT, autonomous vehicles, augmented reality, and more.