It was only last week that the 5G spectrum auction was concluded and India entered the league of nations that have this coveted technology. By the end of this year or by the start of 2024, 5G service will begin in the country. 

Different industries, like global telecom operators, internet companies, and cellular operators, are planning to implement and use this 5G technology. This technology will improve the accessibility and feasibility of all operations. 

At the same time, all the global technological scenarios are changing with the emergence of new edge technologies like artificial intelligence, IoT (Internet of Things), and many more. According to an expert, 5G technology will be a game changer and a catalyst for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. 

Global telecommunications will gear up for 5G, but with a few pros, many dark aspects will come with 5G. 

So, let us have a look at some pros and cons of 5G. 

Advantages  

1. High speed  

5G technology comes with its biggest advantage, which is speed. Unlike the ongoing networks like 2G, 3G, and 4G, which take hours to do their job, 5G would be easier and faster at doing its job. Moreover, the gaming industry will have the blooming benefit of 5G. 

2. Latency  

Compared to other networks, 5G technology will have low latency. Which makes it very easy to support new edge technologies. It also makes browsing easier, which improves the customer experience. 

3. Bandwidth  

5G technology provides seamless data transfer with increased bandwidth. That improves the device’s connectivity. It also provides a seamless transition of services between devices and wireless networks, which indirectly improves performance. 

Disadvantages 

1. Limited Coverage  

5G technology will have a presence in only selected cities globally. Even though the government is working to maximize cities, it would take years to introduce and implement them. 

2. Upload speed  

Despite having the potential for faster download speeds, experts predict that 5G technology will have a slower upload speed than 4G and 4G LTE.  

3. Battery damage  

Another limitation is that it weakens the cellular device by damaging the battery and its life span. To date, only a few manufacturers have emerged with 5G-friendly phones. 

4. Security Risk  

Next comes the increase in the risk of hacking. 

Another drawback of 5G technology is that it increases the risk of hacking, thus impinging on cybersecurity. Additionally, the lack of encryption during connection also makes 5G-enabled devices a more accessible target for cyberattacks and data theft. 

Conclusion 

In India, the 5G spectrum auction began on July 26 and concluded on August 1. The government had put 72 GHz radio waves for sale across 10 bands. Of the 72 GHz, 71 percent has been sold with bids totaling Rs 1,50,173 crore.  

Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Jio won the bid across several spectrum bands worth Rs 88,078 crore. Sunil Mittal-led Bharti Airtel fetched the second spot after buying 19,867 MHZ airwaves worth Rs 43,084 crore.