What is Meant by 1G, 2G, 3G & 4G ?

G in wireless networks refer to the generation of the underlying wireless technology. Each generation is characterised by new frequency bands, higher data rates and non-backward compatible technology.

1G Technology is also known as first generation of wireless telephone technology (examples include NMT, C-NET, AMPS, TACS all majorly within America and Europe). In Nigeria, NITEL could also be an example. They are considered to be the first analog cellular systems which started in 1980s, although there were radio telephone systems even before that time. 1G network were designed primarily for voice calls. Some headsets I learnt allow built-in modems and in some cases data transmission is done over the wired connection using packet switched telephone network.

2G Technology (examples include GSM, CDMA-1, D-AMPS) are the first digital cellular network systems launched in early 1990s. They offer improved sound quality, better security and higher total capacity. It can support text messaging (SMS) and the MMS. In fact, GSM supports circuit switched data which means users can place dial-up data calls digitally. It has data transmission rate of about 2.4Kbit per seconds. It is based on digital technology and network infrastructure. The enhanced data rates versions of the technology include the General Radio Packet service (GPRS) which is otherwise referred to as the 2.5G network, has data rates of about 144Kbits per second. Some Schools of thought also refer to the Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE) as 2.75G. So when you see E on your phone you should now know what it means.

3G Technology was introduced in 1998, they are newer cellular networks with data rates of 384kbits per second and more. The ITU-R IMT-2000 standard requires stationery speed (pedestrians or stationery users) of 2Mbits per second and mobile speeds of 384Kbits per second, for a genuine 3G technology. The technology allows voice calls, video calls, file sharing and transmission, internet surfing, online TV, viewing high definition videos, playing games online and much more. Recent 3G often referred to as the 3.5G and 3.75G provides mobile broadband access of several Mbits to smart phones and modems for laptops. In some instances the High Speed Packet Access (HSPA) and the HSPA plus (HSPA+) are regarded as versions of the 3G technology. So when you see H and H+ on your phone am sure you now know what it means.

4G Technology was introduced in March 2008. It is the fourth generation of mobile phone communication standards. Data rates for this technology is within 100Mbits per second to 1Gbits per second. Most times Long Term Evolution (LTE) and WiMax are marketed as part of this generation even though they both do not meet the ITU-IMT advanced specified requirement for this technology. 4G provides amended mobile web access, IP telephony, gaming services, high definition mobile TV, video conferencing, 3D-television and many more. For now it’s only Globacom Network that offers us LTE so let the groove begin.

Hope you found this post useful? Please do not hesitate to add your comments below so that I can learn from you too.