Understanding 5G

5G is the fifth generation of wireless technology. 5G is much faster than previous generations of wireless technology. But it’s not just about speed. 5G also offers: 

• faster mobile broadband and a more consistent experience in congested areas with a very high number of devices 

• industrial applications, enabling businesses to improve their productivity, for example through predictive maintenance and real-time analytics 

• Internet of Things (IoT) services, many of which will help councils and businesses deliver services more efficiently including:
  - transport and logistics: connected parcels and fleet tracking
  – health and social care
  – environmental monitoring: sensors monitoring air quality and water pollution in real-time
  – smart agriculture and smart animal farming, smart retailing
  - connected and autonomous cars: allowing cars to communicate with each other, other road users and even the road infrastructure. 

Leicestershire County Council are working with the main mobile network operators to encourage the growth of the 5G network in Leicestershire. 

You can find out more information about 5G on the OFCOM website, including a handy guide to 5G – https://www.ofcom.org.uk/siteassets/resources/documents/phones-telecoms-and-internet/advice/5g-guide/5g-guide.pdf?v=325215