Assignment 2: 4G Wireless Networks And Worth 75 Points

Assignment 2: 4G Wireless Networks and worth 75 Points The following

The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) developed the 3GPP Long-Term Evolution (LTE) standard for wireless communications technology. It is regarded as an evolution of the Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), the Universal Mobile Telecommunications Systems (UMTS), and other standards. It is also known as the 4G LTE. The competition among the carriers to support 4G LTE networks has been very fierce as evidenced by TV commercials targeting smartphone users. Many smartphones run on 3G networks.

Write a four to five (4-5) page paper in which you: 1. Compare and contrast 3G wireless networks to 4G networks in terms of services and applications, network architecture, data throughput, and user perceptions. 2. Distinguish between the 4G LTE, 4G WiMax, and 4G WiBro networks based on upload and download speeds, user perceptions, backward compatibility, and service availability. 3. Identify why the competition between the 4G LTE carriers has been so fierce and describe the benefits of this competition to the subscribers. 4. In January 2012, Verizon stated that 4G LTE is available in 190 cities covering 200 million American subscribers, while AT&T planned to cover 20 million Americans in 15 markets by the end of 2011. Conclude why Verizon is able to cover more markets than AT&T. 5. Use at least three (3) credible resources in this assignment.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The rapid evolution of wireless communication standards has dramatically transformed the landscape of mobile connectivity and service delivery. Among these, 3G and 4G wireless networks represent significant milestones, with 4G networks promising higher speeds, better service quality, and more capacity. This paper offers a detailed comparison of 3G and 4G networks—specifically focusing on services, network architecture, data throughput, and user perceptions. Additionally, it distinguishes among key 4G technologies: LTE, WiMax, and WiBro, analyzing their speed capabilities, user perceptions, backward compatibility, and service availability. Furthermore, the intense competition among 4G LTE carriers like Verizon and AT&T is examined concerning its causes and benefits to consumers. Lastly, reasons behind Verizon’s wider market coverage compared to AT&T are explored.

Comparison of 3G and 4G Wireless Networks

Services and Applications

3G networks primarily facilitated voice calls, text messaging, and basic internet access with support for multimedia messaging and mobile internet browsing. Their applications included email, social media, and casual video streaming (Kavitha &shmi, 2015). In contrast, 4G networks support high-speed internet access with capabilities for HD video streaming, online gaming, video conferencing, and rich multimedia services, fostering a more diverse and sophisticated array of apps and user experiences (Khan et al., 2017). The transition from 3G to 4G enabled mobile devices to handle data-intensive applications seamlessly, enhancing user engagement and digital interaction.

Network Architecture

3G networks employed circuit-switched and packet-switched architectures, with technologies such as UMTS and CDMA. The architecture was relatively centralized, with base stations connected to core networks supporting limited data speeds (Sauter, 2018). Conversely, 4G networks utilize all-IP (Internet Protocol) based architectures, which integrate voice, data, and multimedia services over a unified network infrastructure, resulting in efficiencies and scalability (3GPP, n.d.). The self-organizing network (SON) capabilities in 4G also allow dynamic resource management, improving network performance and reliability (Moussa et al., 2016).

Data Throughput

3G networks offered maximum download speeds of around 2 Mbps, with upload speeds considerably lower. In contrast, 4G LTE networks are capable of delivering theoretical download speeds of up to 100 Mbps and upload speeds of approximately 50 Mbps, enabling near real-time data exchange suitable for streaming and cloud computing services (ITU, 2020). The substantial increase in data throughput underscores 4G’s capacity to support modern data-hungry applications, which was limited under 3G standards.

User Perceptions

User perceptions of 3G typically included slower browsing speeds, higher latency, and occasional connectivity issues. As 4G networks became widespread, users experienced significantly improved speed, reduced latency, and enhanced overall service quality, leading to higher satisfaction (Lee et al., 2019). The perception of reliability and the ability to access high-definition content on mobile devices contributed to a positive shift in user expectations with 4G technology.

Distinguishing Between 4G LTE, WiMax, and WiBro

Upload and Download Speeds

4G LTE provides download speeds ranging from 75 Mbps to 150 Mbps under optimal conditions, with typical user experiences around 20-30 Mbps. WiMax, initially offering comparable speeds (up to 70 Mbps), saw varying performance due to implementation differences and coverage limitations. WiBro, the South Korean 4G standard, offered similar speeds to LTE but was limited geographically (Yoo & Lee, 2018).

User Perceptions

Consumers generally perceived LTE as the most reliable and widely available 4G technology, contributing to its dominance. WiMax faced skepticism related to inconsistent coverage and performance, while WiBro's perception was favorable within South Korea but limited elsewhere (Kim et al., 2019).

Backward Compatibility

LTE’s design supports backward compatibility with 3G networks through dual-mode devices and fallback mechanisms, ensuring seamless transition and service continuity (3GPP, n.d.). WiMax and WiBro faced challenges integrating smoothly with existing 3G infrastructure, which impacted user experience and network adoption (Nokleby et al., 2017).

Service Availability

LTE’s extensive global deployment and carrier support have made its availability widespread. WiMax's adoption was limited primarily to certain regions like North America and parts of Eastern Europe, while WiBro remained mainly within South Korea. The widespread service availability of LTE has cemented its dominance in the 4G ecosystem (ITU, 2020).

Fierce Competition Among 4G LTE Carriers and Its Benefits

The competition among LTE carriers like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint has been driven by the desire to expand network coverage, improve service quality, and attract consumers. Since 4G LTE deployment is capital-intensive, carriers strive to outdo each other through infrastructure investment, competitive pricing, and service innovations (Hossain & Fotouhi, 2019). This intense rivalry accelerates network deployment speeds, enhances service features, and reduces costs for consumers. Subscribers benefit from wider coverage, better data speeds, innovative plans, and improved customer service. Competitive pressure also fosters technological advancements, such as the rollout of 5G, and encourages carriers to continually upgrade their infrastructure.

Why Verizon Covers More Markets Than AT&T

Verizon's broader market coverage compared to AT&T can be attributed to strategic nationwide infrastructure investments earlier in the deployment of LTE networks. Verizon's focus on dense urban markets and suburban areas allowed it to quickly expand coverage, leveraging a highly centralized network deployment strategy. Additionally, Verizon's extensive fiber optic backbone and spectrum holdings facilitated faster and more extensive rollout of LTE services (Walker, 2013). In contrast, AT&T’s more diversified approach involved partnerships and region-specific deployment strategies, which initially limited its coverage. Verizon’s aggressive expansion and focus on network quality have enabled it to reach more markets more rapidly, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Conclusion

The competitive landscape of 4G LTE providers is shaped by strategic investments, technological capabilities, and market expansion strategies. Verizon’s ability to cover more markets than AT&T results from early and aggressive nationwide infrastructure deployment, broadband backbone investments, and spectrum utilization. This extensive reach guarantees higher customer access, better service quality, and a competitive edge in the wireless industry. As consumers continue to demand faster, reliable, and widespread connectivity, the fierce competition among carriers will foster ongoing enhancements and innovations in wireless technology.

References

  • Kavitha, M., &shmi, S. (2015). A Comparative Study on 3G and 4G Wireless Technologies. International Journal of Computer Science and Mobile Computing, 4(4), 300-305.
  • Khan, R., Choi, S., & Kim, J. (2017). 4G LTE: An Overview of Technology, Performance, and Challenges. Wireless Personal Communications, 97(4), 491-519.
  • Sauter, M. (2018). From GSM to LTE: An Introduction to Mobile Networks and Mobile Broadband. Wiley.
  • 3GPP. (n.d.). LTE Technical Specifications. Retrieved from https://www.3gpp.org/
  • Moussa, M., et al. (2016). Self-organizing networks for 4G and Beyond. IEEE Communications Magazine, 54(5), 62-69.
  • ITU. (2020). IMT Vision — Framework and Requirements for IMT-2020 and Beyond.
  • Lee, S., et al. (2019). User Perceptions and Satisfaction Toward 4G LTE Networks. Journal of Communications and Networks, 21(2), 172-181.
  • Yoo, H., & Lee, J. (2018). A Comparative Analysis of 4G Technologies: WiMax, WiBro, and LTE. Telecommunications Policy, 42(8), 585-595.
  • Kim, J., et al. (2019). User Experience and Perception of 4G Wireless Technologies: Focus on WiMax and WiBro. Mobile Networks and Applications, 24(3), 903-913.
  • Walker, D. (2013). Telecom Strategies and Network Deployment: A Case Study of Verizon and AT&T. Telecom Journal, 74(6), 340-347.

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