Is it time to migrate our cellular routers to 5G?

With the rapid evolution of technology, the question of whether you need 5G in your cellular router is more relevant than ever. To answer this, we propose evaluating three factors: your current and future needs, the availability of cellular modems, and, most importantly, the network.

Your Current Needs and the Importance of 5G

The first question to consider is: is 5G really necessary for your current needs? 5G offers undeniable advantages, such as faster speeds, reduced latency, and better coverage. This is often highlighted in marketing, and many people stop their analysis there. However, it is essential to dig deeper and consider two other equally important aspects before making an informed choice.

The Availability of Cellular Routers : A Transformation with 5G

The arrival of 5G has posed a significant challenge for cellular routers manufacturers. Most prototypes of modified 4G devices for 5G experienced overheating issues, forcing manufacturers to completely rethink the architecture of their devices. Today, rather than offering 5G as an additional feature on existing devices or adding 5G modems to the series we know and love, most manufacturers are providing entirely new series of 5G modems and routers with advanced features optimized for this new standard

While 4G modems remain available and useful, their development is slowing down. These well-known models will continue to be marketed, but without any major new features. Gradually, they will enter the category of "vintage" devices and will be phased out in a few years. The true future lies in the new series of 5G modems, where innovation is constant and new device versions will meet the evolving needs of the market

The Network : The Decisive Factor While many focus on their needs and the availability of modems, the network is actually the most critical element to consider. Currently, in Canada, 4G modems operate on the 4G network while still using the 3G network when 4G coverage is not available. Similarly, the 5G network transitions to 4G when the 5G signal is not available.

However, there is a crucial issue to consider: cellular frequency licenses. These licenses are expensive and necessary for deploying advanced 5G features. To optimize their use, major telecommunications operators are recycling 3G frequencies for integration into the 5G network. This explains why 3G coverage has diminished and will be completely discontinued between 2025 and 2026 (Rogers plans to phase it out by the end of Q1 2025, and other carriers are expected to follow suit quickly).

Moreover, while the 4G network remains available, its licenses are also being gradually reallocated to maximize 5G efficiency. This means that the 4G network will degrade over time. Therefore, if you plan for large-scale deployment and want your devices to remain operational for several years, it is essential to choose 5G-compatible routers now.

Finally, it is important to note that the 5G network, as we know it today, is also evolving. Currently, 5G still relies on the 4G network, but a new type of fully independent 5G network is being deployed in Canada. This "standalone" (SA) 5G network will offer even higher performance and capacity.

Conclusion

Although this article shows that, in most cases, the 5G network appears to be the best option, there are still several situations where 4G remains recommended. For example, among the new series of 5G devices, some are scalable 4G devices that can be upgraded to 5G when necessary. Another example: for short-term needs or projects where replacing modems is easy and inexpensive, 4G may be a perfectly suitable short-term solution while planning for a second deployment, but with 5G in the medium term.

Each situation is unique, and for a precise and personalized analysis, the Cloud Monitored Objects (CMO) team is here to help you. We are trained and certified by leading manufacturers such as Sierra Wireless , Cradlepoint, part of Ericsson , Teltonika Networks , Peplink et Digi International , and we can recommend the most appropriate device for your specific case, regardless of the manufacturer.