In a world where everything is becoming more and more connected, it's no surprise that 5G is becoming more widespread throughout the UK. 5G is one of the fastest options for business and home broadband, providing speeds that are much faster than 4G.
This new technology offers a wide range of opportunities for businesses and homeowners alike, from faster downloads and video streaming to better online gaming performance and uninterrupted VoIP calls. But in order to take advantage of all that 5G has to offer, you need the right equipment - like a 5G antenna.
If you're wondering whether you should be investing in a 5G antenna for your home or business, you're in the right place!
What is 5G broadband?
5G broadband is a relatively new technology (launched in 2019) that will provide internet speeds that are faster than the current 4G standard. This will allow for a smoother experience when streaming videos, gaming and using other data-intensive applications.
5G broadband connects to the internet in a similar way that 5G smartphones do, but instead of through a mobile phone, it is done with a router that has a 5G SIM card inserted into it. Some models also then send out WiFi for devices to connect to.
What is a 5G antenna?
A 5G antenna is an external antenna which is mounted on the outside of your premises, normally at the highest available point. It is used to amplify and improve the signal of a 5G network in order to achieve the best possible performance. Without a 5G antenna, you may not be able to take advantage of all that 5G has to offer.
Why do I need a 5G antenna?
If you live or work in an area with weak 5G coverage, where it is only available outdoors, a 5G antenna can help to improve the signal and give you better speeds and performance.
5G is still in its early stages of rollout, so not all areas have good coverage indoors and out yet. By using a 5G antenna, you can ensure that you are getting the best possible 5G signal in your area and gives you the best chance for good performance.
How can a 5G antenna benefit my home or business
You might need a 5G antenna to take advantage of the new, faster network. 5G is the next generation of cellular technology, which will offer even faster download and upload speeds than current 4G networks. A 5G antenna can help you stay connected in an increasingly data-driven world.
Faster download and upload speed
A 5G high-gain antenna can provide faster download and upload speeds for your home or business. This is important for streaming videos, downloading large files, and staying connected in an increasingly data-driven world. With a 5G antenna, you can take advantage of the new network to stay connected and productive.
Increased network capacity
Using 5G antennas provides the opportunity to increase your bandwidth. Adding more than one antenna to your set up gives you two or more connections out to the internet increasing your network capacity. This is great for businesses with high demand traffic environments.
More reliable connection
A 5G antenna can offer a more reliable connection by providing a stronger signal. This is important for businesses that rely on a strong and stable internet connection. With a 5G antenna, you can be sure that your business will stay connected even in weaker coverage areas.
Directional connection
5G antennas can provide a directional connection which can be helpful in pinpointing the best spot to get the strongest signal. This is great for businesses that are located in an area with a lot of interference. With a 5G antenna, you can aim your signal to get the best connection possible.
Enable better performance in a rural location
If you are based in a more rural location where 5G coverage is especially weak, your best chance of achieving good performance on the 5G network is to use a 5G outdoor antenna. This will help you get a better signal in your location.
Are there different types of 5G antennas available?
Yes, there are different types of 5G antennas available. Some are omni directional, meaning they can send and receive signals in all directions, while others are directional, meaning they send and receive signals in a specific direction. Additionally, different brands of 5G antennas may have different specifications.
Omni-directional
This type of antenna is often used in residential settings. It can be placed on a window or mounted on a wall. An omni-directional antenna does not need to be pointed in a specific direction to receive a signal, which is more convenient for home broadband.
Omni directional antennas typically have a wider (but shorter) range than directional antennas and are often less expensive than directional antennas. This again makes them ideal for 5G home broadband. However, omni directional antennas are not as efficient as directional antennas as they receive signal from all directions instead of from just one focus point.
Directional
A directional antenna must be pointed in the direction of the cell tower to receive a signal. This type of outdoor antenna is often used in commercial or industrial settings.
A directional antenna can send and receive signals over a greater distance than an omni-directional antenna. They focus the signal in a specific direction, which often results in improved signal quality.
Directional antennas do require a more complex install process because they require more precision during installation. Often you can hire professional installers to help align the equipment to your nearest cell mast to ensure optimal performance for your location.
The only downside of a directional antenna is that the focused signal can also lead to poorer performance in areas that are not within the direct line of sight of the antenna. This may occur if the cell mast your antenna is aligned to has an outage, and you need to connect to another one.
Different Brands
There are different brands of 5G antennas available on the market. Some of the most popular brands include Huawei 5G, Netgear, and MikroTik. When choosing a 5G antenna, it is important to consider the specific needs of your home or office network. Each brand offers different features and benefits that may be more or less suited to your needs.
How do I choose the right 5G antenna for my needs
There are many factors you should consider when choosing a 5G antenna. Some of the most important include the type of antenna, the frequency range it supports, and its gain. You also need to make sure that the antenna is compatible with your device and network.
The type of antenna you need will depend on how you plan to use it. If you want to use your 5G connection for mobile broadband, then you'll need an external antenna. These antennas are typically larger and more powerful than the internal antennas found in smartphones and other devices.
Your location and coverage
If you live in an area with good 5G coverage, then you may not need an external antenna. In this case, you can just use the internal antenna in your device. However, if you live in an area with poor 5G coverage, then you'll need an external antenna to get a good signal.
Speed
You should investigate what speeds the antenna is capable of. This will be determined by what modem the antenna has. For example, a CAT 20 modem will be capable of higher speeds than a CAT6 modem. Ensure the antenna you pick is capable of the speeds you need.
Price
External antennas can be expensive, but there are some less expensive options available. You just need to make sure that the antenna is compatible with your router and network.
Frequency
When choosing a 5G antenna, you should also consider the frequency range it supports. 5G networks operate in two frequency ranges: low-band and high-band. Low-band 5G networks are typically found in rural areas, while high-band 5G networks are typically found in urban areas.
If you want to use your 5G connection for mobile broadband, then you'll need an antenna that supports the high-band frequency. These antennas are typically larger and more powerful than low-band antennas.
Gain
The gain of an antenna is a measure of its power. The higher the gain, the more powerful the antenna. If you live in an area with poor 5G coverage, then you'll need an antenna with a high gain to get a good 5G signal.
Compatibility
When choosing a 5G outdoor antenna, you also need to make sure that it's compatible with your router and network. Most 5G routers come with an external antenna port, so you can just plug in an outdoor antenna.
Design
You should also consider the design of the antenna, including it's colour, size etc. This is particularly important if you need to mount it on your office building and need permission from the landlord or if you live in a listed property. You can get an outdoor antenna that is discrete and easy on the eye.
The future of 5G antennas and what to expect
5G antennas are constantly evolving and becoming more powerful. The next generation of 5G antennas will be able to support even higher speeds and frequencies.
If you're planning on using a 5G connection for mobile broadband, then you should consider getting an external antenna. These antennas are typically larger and more powerful than the internal antennas found in smartphones and other devices.
SimRush 5G Routers
SimRush has a range of 5G routers which suit different needs.
Check out our 5G collection below.
Why buy a SimRush router?
All 5G routers in the SimRush range have a very powerful CAT20 modem and are backwards compatible with the 4G LTE network. This means they can be used even in areas without 5G coverage to future proof your business or home broadband. When 5G coverage gets to you, you'll be ready to take full advantage.
SimRush 5G router models are capable of extremely fast peak speeds of up to 1Gbps download and 650Mbps upload. Plus, the SimRush additional static IP service means you can get a fixed IP address assigned directly to the hardware for a carrier independent IP address for remote access to your servers or CCTV equipment. The static IP service helps to distinguish it from other 5G antennas such as Huawei 5G.
The SimRush Pro & Pro-WiFi 5G models come with an external, directional antenna and an internal router making them ideal for areas with weaker 5G coverage. FreeClix can arrange for professional installer to come and fit the 2-part equipment to ensure you get optimal alignment for the best performance possible.
This service can be arranged using our network of installers across the United Kingdom. They will cable the 5G outdoor antenna to the internal Controller using CAT5 external grade ethernet cable to ensure there is no signal loss between the two routers.
Or if you'd prefer a quick set up the SimRush Chateau 5G is a plug and play device that can be easily set up for fantastic broadband in areas with excellent 5G coverage indoors and out.
SimRush 5G is the perfect way to get fast, unlimited and future proofed broadband in your home or business. So, follow the links above to take a further look at our 5G routers that are available and in stock now on our webstore.
Conclusion
Now that you know what to look for when choosing a 5G antenna, it's time to decide which one is right for you. Each brand offers different features and benefits that may be more or less suited to your needs. Consider the type of antenna, the frequency range it supports, its gain, and how compatible it is with your device and network before making a purchase.
Antennas are constantly evolving, so make sure to keep an eye out for new models that offer even higher speeds and frequencies. If you're planning on using 5G for mobile broadband, then an external antenna is a great investment
