What are 3G and 4G
Here is a question in the mind of many people;
What are 3G and 4G and what is difference between 3G and 4G
Third Generation Technology (3G)
3G refers to the cellular data transfer standard of the technology being used, and is known as third generation technology.
1G was first used in 1982, followed by 2G in the 1990s. Although 3G was available in the early 2000s, it was not in common use until 2007.
The International Telecommunications Union (IMT-2000) is responsible for setting the specifications that allow a technology to be called 3G. These sets of specification refer to the cellular data transfer standard.
The actual technology used to achieve these standards is not specified. AT&T use GSM, Verizon use CDMA, and there are different criteria for networks not based in the USA.
Standards for 3G include a peak data transfer rate not less than 2Mbps, but in most cases the transfer rates are much higher.
Fourth Generation Technology (4G)
4G became available in different countries at various times, and under different names. South Korea introduced in in 2005 as WiMAX. This was followed by some European countries and the USA in 2009. Sprint was the first provider in the USA to use 4G.
4G specifications, defined by the IMT-2000, have increased peak transfer rates to 100Mbps, which is considerably faster. Although these rates may vary, depending on signals and interference, they are much faster than using a cable modem or DSL connection.
As with 3G, different technologies can be used to reach the specifications required for 4G, and providers use a variety of technologies. WiMAX is popular in Asia and parts of Europe and LTE (Long Term Evolution) is widely used in Scandinavia and the USA.