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Are you prepared for the 3G switch off?

Base station network operator

As new technology emerges and more businesses lean into future-proof IoT solutions, previous generations of network connectivity solutions are likely to shut down. And it’s no exception with 3G as businesses prepare for the 3G switch off.

But for many businesses that are not prepared to transition to 5G in the coming years, continuing with 3G will only lead to significant technology turmoil. The natural step forward for businesses is to upgrade to 4G LTE or prepare for 5G.

As Australia’s number one independently owned designer and distributor of world class network solutions, we take a look at the benefits of transitioning to 4G and beyond and why a future-proof investment into your network is critical for any business looking to utilise IoT solutions.

Cityscape with wi-fi connection

Why are networks shutting down 3G?

All wireless communications rely on radio frequency or ‘spectrum’ (measured in megahertz bands, such as 850MHz or 2100MHz). Spectrum is a fixed resource. The amount available to use is determined by the physics of radio waves. Telecommunication companies have access to a certain spectrum that they use to build their network.

But once a band is full, you cannot add more.

Telecommunication companies are driven by the desire of network operators to repurpose spectrum for faster and more efficient 4G LTE devices.

It is also more cost-effective to operate an LTE network than a 3G network, because more devices can share the available spectrum.

Telstra and Vodafone have already started phasing out parts of their 3G networks, so it is only a matter of time for businesses to transition to 4G LTE or even 5G.

5g mobile internet communication tower

The benefit of transitioning to 4G and beyond

4G LTE is fast — and getting faster. Today, LTE Cat 18 offers up to 1.2Gbps and with 5G, speeds will exceed an impressive 10Gbps.

Many organisations are making the shift to cloud-managed 4G LTE routers and gateways that have built-in modems with multiple SIM slots as a way to accelerate and secure their IoT deployments. Organisations can harness multiple LTE providers to provide the redundancy they need, should connectivity to one carrier be impacted.

But the key to success in IoT deployments will be choosing a right-sized wireless edge solution based on specific bandwidth needs and security requirements, whether utilising software-defined perimeter (SDP) technologies to create a perimeter-secured overlay network or using cellular to create a separate, parallel network just for IoT.

LTE networks

Prepare for a seamless transition

As wireless communication networks continue to rapidly evolve and more carriers announce their plans to discontinue legacy networks, it is imperative that businesses understand the unique challenges and processes of conducting a 3G to 4G LTE migration.

Some important factors to consider include:

  • The number of active 3G devices
  • Bandwidth: Do you need data transferred in bursts or as a steady feed over time?
  • The cost of hardware, truck roll, manpower hours and updated carrier plans
  • Transition timeline
  • Application connectivity needs: Consider if downtime could put you at the risk of lost revenue, regulatory penalties or safety violations.
  • Environmental factors: Will your equipment be in a climate-controlled environment or outdoors in harsh, hazardous settings?

Transitioning to 4G LTE equipment isn’t a wasted investment. By preparing for the 3G shutdown now, companies meet business-critical needs while also laying down the foundation for the digital enterprise and 5G down the road.

Assessing if your business is ready to deploy 4G or 5G is the perfect opportunity to accelerate IoT deployments and re-think network security for the IoT era.

It’s never been more important to invest in a future-proof network that supports innovation and growth. At OSA, we’ve been entrusted with the supply, design and support services for some of Australia’s largest infrastructure and telecommunications projects. We have the products and solutions that you need to get ready for 4G, 5G and beyond.

Contact us today for more information.

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