You’ve likely heard the buzz surrounding 5G – the latest mobile network technology that promises faster speeds, more reliable connections, and the potential to revolutionise the way that we work, especially in rural areas. As the 5G rollout continues to pick up steam in the UK, more and more businesses are starting to wonder: “Is 5G really worth it for my business?” Whether you’re a retail shop owner, logistics manager, or running a professional services team remotely, it’s crucial to understand what 5G offers and how it could impact your operations.
In this blog, we’ll break down what 5G is, its potential benefits, and whether it’s a smart investment for your business. As always, we know not everyone loves tech-babble as much as us, so we’ll explain everything in simple terms!
What is 5G and Why Does It Matter?
5G is the latest generation of mobile networks, following 4G, which many businesses are relying on now. The key difference is that 5G provides much faster internet speeds and more reliable connections. Think about downloading a large file in seconds or holding a video conference call with crystal-clear quality and zero interruptions. That’s the appeal 5G was announced with.
What makes 5G particularly exciting for businesses is its ability to handle lots of devices at once. If you’ve experienced slow internet at a busy event like an industry expo or in a crowded office, 5G is designed to solve that problem by managing high-demand areas better than 4G.
In 2024, UK 5G coverage is expanding fast, and businesses are already starting to take advantage of this. For SMEs in rural areas, 5G can be a game-changer by providing faster, more reliable internet connections where traditional broadband may be limited. This improved connectivity can potentially open doors with remote working, enable better access to cloud-based services, and support IoT devices in industries like agriculture or logistics.
However, with increased connectivity comes the need for strong cybersecurity measures. To leverage 5G securely, rural businesses should ensure they have robust firewalls in place (free ones simply won’t cut it) and up-to-date antivirus software in place, and regularly train employees to spot potential scams like phishing emails. Partnering with an IT support provider can help rural SMEs protect their operations as they take advantage of 5G’s benefits.
5G’s promise is to make work smoother for SMEs by improving communication, enabling faster file transfers, and even supporting future technologies like AI (artificial intelligence) and IoT (Internet of Things) devices.
Where Is 5G Available and Does It Offer Better Coverage?
While 5G sounds like the perfect solution to internet troubles, you might be wondering if it’s available in your area. As of 2024, 5G coverage is expanding across urban and semi-urban areas in the UK, though it’s not yet universal. Depending on where your business operates, you might already have access or might need to wait a little longer.
In cities like London and Manchester businesses are reaping the rewards of the rollout in sectors such as logistics, where faster network speeds can help track shipments in real-time, or in retail, where quick data exchanges can improve checkout speeds and customer experiences.
According to Ofcom and other telecom regulators, 5G is making its way into more parts of the UK. To check if 5G coverage from your supplier is available in your area, take a look at the coverage maps provided by your network provider, as different networks such as EE, O2, Three and Vodafone have slightly differing timelines.
Is 5G Safe and Secure? What About Scams and Cybersecurity?
Whenever new technology hits the market, cybersecurity becomes a concern (mostly for security experts like us) as this is the prime time for scammers to exploit a lack of knowledge. 5G’s infrastructure is strong, but as with any tech upgrade, scammers are looking for ways to exploit businesses that are new to the technology. Let’s look at a few of the most common scams we see surrounding 5G and how you can prepare your business to face them.
Common Scam Tactics:
- Phishing Emails: Scammers might send emails posing as network providers offering “5G upgrades.” These emails often contain malicious links that, when clicked, can infect your system with viruses or steal your sensitive information. This method can be used using spoofing or even a homograph attack. Educate your whole team, and yourself, on both.
- Fake Hardware or Devices: Be cautious of vendors offering “5G-compatible” devices at unbelievable prices. These devices could be faulty or, worse, used to compromise your business’s security. Your IT supplier should be able to provide you with the hardware that you need from reputable suppliers.
- Rogue Hotspots: Some scammers set up fake 5G Wi-Fi networks in public places, hoping users will log in, giving them access to valuable data. Just because a Wi-Fi network is called ‘Gatwick Airport Wifi’ does NOT mean that it’s the official network. Never connect to a network unless you are confident of the source, especially on work devices.
The big question – is it time to invest to leverage 5G in your business? Let’s do a little informal Cost-Benefit Analysis:
While 5G offers impressive benefits to workers who are on the move, spread over several sites or working in areas where fibre is not yet available, it may come with some added costs that aren’t immediately obvious. You may need to upgrade devices or switch to faster mobile plans, which can increase expenses in the short term. However, the potential productivity gains from faster internet and more reliable connectivity could outweigh these costs in the long run. If you or your team is using a ‘pre-smartphone’ that doesn’t support anything greater than 3G, the choice to upgrade will soon be less of a choice and more of a necessity…
If you’re still unsure whether 5G makes sense for your business, it’s a good idea to consult with a tech expert or an IT support provider (like us!) to see how 5G could impact your specific needs.
Further Reading: Still Using Phones That Only Support 3G?
