5G employs radio waves to send and receive data, whereas fiber optic communication uses light to transport data over fiber optic cables. Whereas 4G can offer downlink speeds of up to 20 Gbps and uplink speeds of up to 10 Gbps. Theoretical speeds of Fiber Optic can reach up to 1 Petabit per second, whereas practical speeds recorded on Fiber lines are 100 Gbps.
One significant disadvantage of employing 5G technology is that each cell/station can have an expanse of up to a few hundred meters, but a fiber-provisioned signal can extend up to 70 kilometers. Signal support of up to 70 kilometers is feasible on Single Mode Fiber using specific transceivers.
Security
5G networks are less secure than fiber optic connections. Fiber optic cables are difficult to tap into, making them perfect for transmitting sensitive data. In contrast, 5G networks can be intercepted using radio frequency scanners, making them less secure.
Capacity
Fiber optic cables may carry more data than 5G networks. Fiber optic lines can handle more data traffic than 5G networks, which can get clogged and slow. Fiber optic connections are also great for big data transfers, making them perfect for enterprises that need fast internet.
Coverage
5G networks cover a larger area than fiber optic connections. Wireless transmissions, which have a greater range than fiber optic cables, are used in 5G networks. 5G networks are also more adaptable than fiber optic connections, allowing them to be placed in a variety of locations, making them perfect for rural areas.
Cost
Installing fiber optic links is more expensive than installing 5G networks. Digging trenches and stringing cables to install fiber optic lines can be time-consuming and costly. 5G networks, on the other hand, necessitate the development of cell towers, which are less expensive and faster to install.
Reliability
5G networks are less reliable than fiber optic connections. Because fiber optic cables are located underground, they are less vulnerable to environmental conditions like storms, which can impair wireless signals. In addition, fiber optic cables are less susceptible to interference than 5G networks, which can be affected by walls, trees, and other obstructions.
Advantages of 5G over Fiber Connection
Wireless Networking
Wireless connectivity is one of the most significant features of 5G networks. Unlike fiber optic connections, which require physical cables to carry data, 5G networks send data using wireless signals. This wireless link facilitates the deployment and use of 5G networks in a variety of locales.
Deployment Time is Reduced
Fiber optic connection deployment can be a time-consuming and costly operation. It necessitates trenching and cable laying, which can take months to complete. In contrast, 5G networks may be swiftly and readily deployed by building cell towers. This increases the flexibility and adaptability of 5G networks to changing needs.
Mobility
5G networks provide greater mobility than fiber optic connections. With 5G networks, users can connect to the internet from anywhere, as long as they are within range of a cell tower. This makes 5G networks ideal for mobile applications, such as autonomous vehicles and drones.
Lower Latency
While fiber optic connections have lower latency than 5G networks, 5G networks have lower latency than previous wireless technologies. The low latency of 5G networks is essential for applications that require real-time response, such as virtual reality and telemedicine.
Cost-effective
Deploying fiber optic lines can be costly, particularly in remote locations. 5G networks, on the other hand, can be more cost-effective because they require less physical infrastructure investment. Furthermore, 5G networks can be used for a variety of applications, including internet of things (IoT) devices, lowering the overall cost of internet connectivity.
Security
While fiber optic links are more safe than 5G networks, 5G networks are more secure than earlier wireless technologies due to increased security measures. 5G networks, for example, employ improved encryption methods to safeguard data transmissions from interception and hacking.
Advantages of Fiber Optic connection over 5G Network
Increased Speeds
Faster than 5G networks are fiber optic connections. This is due to the fact that fiber optic connections use light to carry data, and light travels at the speed of light. 5G networks, on the other hand, utilise wireless signals that can be influenced by surrounding variables like walls and trees, resulting in reduced speeds.
Broader Bandwidth
The bandwidth of fiber optic links is greater than that of 5G networks. Fiber optic connections can therefore manage more data traffic than 5G networks, making them perfect for enterprises that demand high-speed internet for big data transfers.
Reduced Latency
The latency of fiber optic connections is lower than that of 5G networks. This is because fiber optic cables carry data via light, which travels quicker than wireless communications. The low latency of fiber optic networks is critical for real-time applications such as online gaming and video conferencing.
More Dependable
5G networks are less reliable than fiber optic connections. Because fiber optic cables are buried underground, they are less vulnerable to environmental variables like storms and high winds. Furthermore, fiber optic cables are less susceptible to interference than 5G networks, which can be hampered by buildings, trees, and other impediments.
More Secure
Fiber optic connections are more secure than 5G networks. This is because fiber optic cables are difficult to tap into, making them ideal for sensitive data transmission. In contrast, 5G networks can be intercepted using radio frequency scanners, making them less secure.
Longevity
Fiber optic connections have a longer lifespan than 5G networks. Fiber optic cables can last for up to 25 years, whereas 5G networks require frequent upgrades and replacements to keep up with changing technology.