Perhaps more annoying than the FreeCreditReport-dot-com commercials are the constant wireless service providers touting their “we can do this and they cannot” on our 3G/4G network. One thing they do not explain though is exactly what 3G and 4G service actually is.
As you can probably guess, it refers to available bandwidth with the higher number meaning a faster connection is possible. Wikipedia explains what the number actually mean:
3G allows simultaneous use of speech and data services and higher data rates (up to 14.0 Mbit/s on the downlink and 5.8 Mbit/s on the uplink with HSPA+)
A 4G cellular system must have target peak data rates of up to approximately 100 Mbit/s for high mobility such as mobile access and up to approximately 1 Gbit/s for low mobility such as nomadic/local wireless access, according to the ITU requirements.
Note that just because a certain speed is possible, it does not mean you will always get that speed as many factors will influence the speed (signal strength, network congestion, etc.).
So now when you are bombarded with the never ending “our service is better than theirs” commercials, you at least know what the actual services they are advertising are capable of.
The PCMech.com weekly newsletter has been running strong for over 8 years. Sign up to get tech news, updates and exclusive content - right in your inbox. Also get (several) free gifts.
Good info.
But it is not available in my area.
Thank you!
I was just in my car and asking myself that exact question: “What the &@*$ is 3G anyway?” I thought that I was one of the few who didn’t know, seeing as I am using a Tracfone prepaid and very satisfied with a phone that does little more thatn make phone calls.
I also hate that AT&T and Verizon are purposely perpetuating confusion about this, either. Verizon says AT&T doesn’t have the same 3G coverage (different than coverage). AT&T says it has coverage in those areas (different than 3G coverage). Arguing apples and oranges…
Thanks for clarification. Next question is 4G can be much faster but what devices can use that kind of bandwidth in todays market??
Realistically, I think the service provider networks are the bottleneck at this point.