📡 Mobile Networks Explained
1. Definition
A mobile network is a type of wireless network that enables devices to communicate without fixed cables. It relies on:
- Cell towers (base stations) that divide regions into “cells.”
- Radio frequencies to transmit voice and data.
- Core network infrastructure to connect calls, internet, and services.
2. Generations of Mobile Networks
| Generation | Year | Technology | Speed | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1G | 1980s | Analog | ~2.4 kbps | Voice only, poor security |
| 2G | 1990s | Digital (GSM, CDMA) | ~64 kbps | SMS, MMS, better voice quality |
| 3G | 2000s | UMTS, WCDMA | ~2 Mbps | Mobile internet, video calls |
| 4G | 2010s | LTE | ~100 Mbps | HD streaming, mobile broadband |
| 5G | 2020s | NR (New Radio) | ~10 Gbps | Ultra-low latency, IoT, AR/VR |
3. Key Characteristics
- Wide coverage: Works across cities, countries, globally.
- Mobility: Devices stay connected while moving between cells.
- Scalability: Supports millions of users simultaneously.
- Evolutionary upgrades: Each generation improves speed, reliability, and services.
4. Applications
- Voice & SMS: Core services since 1G/2G.
- Mobile Internet: Introduced in 3G, expanded in 4G.
- Streaming & Gaming: Enabled by 4G broadband.
- IoT & Smart Cities: Powered by 5G’s low latency and massive device support.
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