The Difference Between 3G and 4G Wireless

If you aren't very tech-savvy, this article should help you understand the difference between some of the terms that are thrown around these days in regards to wireless technology and the internet. Going shopping for a cell phone with internet capabilities or a wireless internet card for your laptop, you will hear more foreign terms than at a Star Trek convention. All jokes aside, it's important to know what the technology does before signing any service contracts.

Most cellular phones today, smart phones included, run on the 3G network for both voice and data access. 3G, evolved from its predecessor 2G, is used by practically all of the major cellular provider companies. Under perfect conditions, which almost never occur for the average consumer, 3G can reach speeds of up to 3Mbit/s. In layman's terms, that's more than 50 times faster than dial-up. However, average speeds are about 20 times faster.

4G technology is the successor to 3G. It will soon become the standard for cellular wireless. The technology is currently available, but is still being perfected. The goal is to reach "ultra-broadband" speeds, which is in terms of gigabits per second. To put it simply: extraordinarily fast. The current technology on the market is already gauged at three to four times faster than 3G.

When looking for mobile wireless for your laptop, you generally have two options. The first is to purchase your card from a cellular phone company. The current standard, as with their phones, is 3G service. Prices among the major companies range from 30 to 60 dollars a month. Your other option is to find an independent provider that offers the faster speeds of 4G.

Obviously, one is faster than the other, but each has its own pros and cons. 3G technology only works where the signal reaches. Therefore, if you come across a dead spot in cell phone signal, you will lose your access to the internet. However, in spite of dead zones here and there, 3G coverage spans the U.S. The same cannot be said of its successor, yet. Currently only available in major cities, researchers are working to expand the cover of 4G technology.

It's important to check out the coverage in your area when shopping for wireless internet technology. The last thing you want to do is get stuck with a contract and you can't even pick up good signal where you live and work. If you don't think you are getting an honest answer from your salesperson, ask around to your friends, family and neighbors. There's no better advice than from someone with experience.

The face of technology is changing every day, especially in the way that we are able to access the internet. Our society depends so heavily upon that access. We always want the newest this and the fastest that. That's why teams of scientists around the country are constantly developing new methods of connectivity and new gadgets for us to play with. It's important to stay abreast of the latest developments so that you always get your money's worth when purchasing new technology.

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