What effects on online performance can we expect from 5G?

The arrival of 5G networks is eagerly anticipated among mobile Internet users. This is the new generation of mobile Internet connectivity that will change how we go online using smartphones and tablets.

So, what changes can we expect to see in our online performance once 5G is rolled out?

Faster speeds

The first noticeable difference is the extra Internet speed provided by 5G. Average download speeds of about 1Gbps are expected. The first networks of this type have rolled out in 2019, with varying speeds seen to date. Testing done by TechRadar has shown up to 1.4Gbps in Chicago and a maximum of 550Mpbs in London. It seems as though the speeds obtained will vary widely, at least initially. However, even the lowest speeds noted in this test are still a lot faster than those 4G provides.

2020 will see more of these networks appear across the world. At that point, it is likely that the average speed is around the 1Gbps mark mentioned earlier. This means some people will probably have faster Internet on this mobile network than on their home broadband connection. Therefore, they will have more freedom to go online in the way that best suits them, even if they plan to stream movies or carry out other tasks that require a fast connection.

Lower latency levels

Latency is the delay or lag that is experienced when you are waiting for data to be received from the network. With 5G, this is going to be reduced to just one millisecond. This is such a tiny delay that it won’t even be perceptible to users. Therefore, it will provide smoother service, with sites responding instantly and the user not needing to wait around.

Among those users who will most feel the benefits of this switch to 5G are gamers. This could be particularly noticeable in multi-player games or games where money is at stake, like online casinos, fantasy leagues, games with loot boxes, other subscription type games, and with both genres often relying on fast response times as crucial to success. Streaming games will no longer be restricted to home broadband connections either. Anyone will be able to play, no matter where they go, as long as they are covered by a 5G network.

Less congestion

Another big benefit to look forward to with 5G is that of having less congested networks. With users able to download files and pages so much quicker, there will be less chance of running into clogged networks that move slowly. One of the possible effects of this is increased growth in the Internet of things (IOT). Clearer, faster networks will offer far more scope for adding new IOT devices that run smoothly at all times.

With mobile data use in South Africa predicted to grow at an annual rate of 54.3% until 2022, this is a vital benefit for individuals and for businesses too. Even as a 5G network grows and expands over time, it will be capable of supporting more users without the overall service level dropping. This opens up many exciting possibilities for the future of mobile Internet use.

South Africa has an average broadband download speed of 6.38 Mbps, but only 54% Internet penetration. Therefore, the move to 5G is likely to be keenly welcomed, not just by current Internet users here, but also potential users.