4G and 5G are evolving cellular technologies. Learn about the Differences between 4G and 5G in terms of Performance and Architecture Components.
Definition of 4G and 5G Networks
4G Network: 4G is the fourth generation cellular network technology that can transfer data faster than previous technologies. 4G uses Long-Term Evolution (LTE) technology and has a maximum download speed of up to 1 Gbps.
5G Network: 5G is the fifth-generation cellular network technology that has higher network speed and capacity than 4G. 5G uses the latest technology such as New Radio (NR) and enables data transfer at a maximum speed of up to 20 Gbps. In addition, 5G has lower latency (response time) compared to 4G.
Development of Cellular Networks from 4G to 5G
The development of cellular networks from 4G to 5G is the result of technology innovation and international standardization aimed at improving speed, latency, capacity, and device connectivity in cellular networks. Here are some developments in cellular networks from 4G to 5G:
4G
In 2008, 4G was introduced as an IP-based cellular network technology that is more efficient and faster. The advantages of the 4G network are that users can enjoy internet, video, and data services more smoothly and faster than previous technologies.
Long-Term Evolution (LTE)
Long-Term Evolution (LTE) is a cellular network technology developed as a version of 4G. LTE was introduced in 2010 and became the most widely used 4G cellular network technology standard worldwide
4G+ atau LTE-A
4G+ or LTE-A: The 4G+ or LTE-A (Advanced) technology was introduced in 2013. This technology is an advanced version of LTE technology.
5G
5G is the next-generation cellular network technology that offers faster speed and latency than 4G. 5G was first introduced in 2018. This technology allows better connectivity for IoT (Internet of Things) devices and enables the use of new technologies such as augmented reality (AR).
Standardization and Testing of 5G
In 2019, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) officially released the 5G technology standard. This allows the development and global implementation of 5G technology. With the publication of this international standard, 5G technology has been widely used by cellular operators with various challenges in its development.
Differences between 4G and 5G in terms of Performance
4G and 5G are different cellular network standards. Here are some differences between 4G and 5G in terms of performance:
Speed
5G download and upload speeds are much faster than 4G. 5G can provide download speeds up to 20 times faster than 4G
Latency
Latency on 5G networks is much lower than 4G. Latency is the time it takes to transfer data from one device to another through the network. In simpler terms, latency can be defined as the delay or gap between a command given by a user on a device and the response received by that device. This means that the lower the latency, the faster your device will respond. The 5G network has a latency of less than 10 milliseconds, while 4G can have latency of more than 20 milliseconds.
Capacity
5G networks have much higher capacity than 4G. So when we use a 5G network, more devices can connect with the same signal quality.
Availability
The 5G network is currently in development and not yet available in all countries. 4G is already more widely available in many countries and in many regions around the world. This is due to the varying challenges faced by each country in developing infrastructure and technology.
Signal Strength
The signal strength of 5G is weaker than that of 4G. This is influenced by the low number of BTS and the many areas that are not yet fully covered by the 5G network. Therefore, the 5G network requires more cell towers to reach the same area as the 4G network, which naturally comes with high infrastructure development costs.
Power Consumption
5G consumes more power compared to 4G. This is because 5G devices require larger resources to send and receive data at higher speeds.
| Aspect | 5G Architecture | 4G Architecture |
| Frequency bands used | Higher frequency bands (millimeter wave) as well as lower frequency bands | Lower frequency bands |
| Network Architecture | Service-based architecture (SBA) with core network functions broken down into modular services | Monolithic architecture with core network functions bundled together |
| Network Slicing | Enables creation of multiple virtual networks with different performance characteristics for different use cases | Not Available |
| Latency | Targeted latency of 1 milliseconds for ultra-reliable-low-latency communication (URLLC) use cases | Average latency of around 30-50 milliseconds |
| Peak Data Rate | Targeted peak data rate 20 Gbps (gigabits per second) | Peak data rate of 1 Gbps |
| Number of Connected devices | Up to 1 million devices per square kilometer | Up to 100,000 devices per square kilometer |
| Energy Efficiency | More energy-efficient due to use of advanced technologies like network slicing, edge computing, and massive MIMO (Multiple input, Multiple output) | Less energy-efficient due to use of older technologies and architecture |
Difference between 4G and 5G in Terms of Architecture Components
In terms of network architecture components, 4G and 5G also have differences. Here are some of the differences:
5G Core Architecture Components
Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF)
This component is responsible for managing access and mobility of User Equipment (UE) in the 5G network. AMF handles functions such as authentication, security, and mobility management.
Session Management Function (SMF)
SMF manages the establishment and release of data sessions between UE and the network. SMF also plays a role in managing Quality of Service (QoS) of various applications and services.
User Plane Function (UPF)
UPF is responsible for processing and forwarding user data packets in the 5G network. UPF is scalable and flexible to support different networks.
Network Repository Function (NRF)
NRF is responsible for maintaining network performance.
Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF)
NSSF is responsible for selecting the right network for a specific UE or application based on factors such as QoS requirements, location, and available resources.
Network Exposure Function (NEF)
NEF provides standards for third-party applications to access network data and services in a secure and controlled manner.
Policy Control Function (PCF)
PCF is responsible for managing policy rules and QoS management in the 5G network. PCF in 5G is designed to be more flexible than 4G.
4G Architecture Components
Mobility Management Entity (MME)
MME is responsible for functions such as authentication, security, and mobility management in the 4G network.
Serving Gateway (SGW)
SGW is responsible for routing user data packets between UE and the Packet Data Network (PDN).
Packet Data Network Gateway (PGW)
PGW is responsible for connecting the 4G network to the internet and other networks.
Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF)
PCRF is responsible for enforcing policy rules and managing QoS in the 4G network. PCRF is less flexible and dynamic than policy control functions in 5G.
| 5G Core Achitecture | 4G Core Architectures |
| Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) | Mobility Management Entity (MME) |
| Session Management Function (SMF) | – |
| User Plane Function (UPF) | Serving Gateway (SGW) |
| Network Repository Function (NRF) | – |
| Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF) | – |
| Network Exposure Function (NEF) | – |
| Policy Control Function (PCF) | Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) |
Writer : Meilina Eka A
