5G, 10G, What’s the difference?

You’ve been hearing about 5G for a long time, and it’s still not a reality. Now you’re hearing about 10G and you’re wondering if you’re reading that right. While the names of these two technologies are similar, they have two very different meanings. Let’s get to the bottom of this.

First, both “Gs” represent a type of communications network. 5G stands for “5th Generation” because 5G is the 5th generation of the cellular technology that our mobile phones use. By contrast, 10G stands for “10 gigabits per second” and it refers to the internet speed of the wired network that the cable industry will deliver.

But despite the differences, both 5G and 10G have the same objective – to provide seamless connectivity that is fast, reliable, and secure. In today’s era of constant connectivity, our dependence on robust wired and wireless networks has never been more evident.

And the overlap doesn't end there. While wired and wireless networks were previously siloed, these technologies are becoming more intertwined as truly seamless connectivity for all will require multiple technologies that work together.

In fact, the vast majority of the wireless data we transmit ultimately travels across a wired broadband network. This solution is referred to as “mobile backhaul” and it means that when you make a call or send data through your mobile device, it makes a short hop on wireless frequencies to a nearby tower or small cell that is actually connected to other towers via a wired broadband network. Those wired networks are used to transmit cellular data over distances, with wireless signals only being used at the two end-points. This reduces the strain on the mobile network while improving wireless service to customers. So, in reality, 10G technology is what will make the 5G vision a reality.

The definition of “mobile” seems to be ever expanding. It started with phones, then tablets had wireless numbers, then cars started offering cellular plans. Consumers are in favor of all the mobility available to them, but in reality, all of their wireless connections ultimately connect back to a big wired network that needs to be blazing fast..

We’re not sure where the future will take us. But there’s one thing we know, our 10G wired broadband networks will be ready to support it.