5G simply explained: what you need to know about the new mobile standard

With 5G, a new era of mobile communication begins. The fifth generation of mobile technology promises not only significantly higher speeds, but also extremely low latency and the ability to connect millions of devices simultaneously. But what does that actually mean for you? What is 5G internet, how does it work, and how is it different from 4G? In this overview, you’ll find clear and simple answers to all the key questions about this new standard.

01.08.2025 | Reading time: 6 minutes

How did we get to 5G?

The path to 5G is a story of technological evolution. It all began with 1G in the 1980s, when mobile phones first transmitted voice over radio signals. 2G introduced digital telephony and SMS. With 3G, mobile internet became accessible to the masses for the first time: websites could be loaded on the go, emails could be sent.

Then came 4G. It enabled mobile use of streaming, video conferencing and social media. But with the rapid development of digital life – from smart homes to wearables to connected cars – 4G reached its limits. Data volumes increased rapidly, and demands for speed and reliability kept growing.

5G was developed as a response to these challenges. It’s not just a simple successor, but a completely new technological platform built on efficiency, scalability and speed.

From communication standard to mobile network standard

What is 5G technology?

When asking what 5G technology is, the first thing that comes to mind is speed. And yes: in theory, 5G can transmit data at over 10 gigabits per second. But that’s only part of the picture.

What’s more important is that 5G was completely redesigned from the ground up. It uses various frequency bands, including so-called millimeter waves (mmWave), which enable very high data rates. At the same time, new technologies like beamforming were developed to direct signal strength specifically to individual devices instead of broadcasting in all directions. This saves energy and improves connection quality.

Another key feature is network slicing. This makes it possible to create virtual networks within the 5G infrastructure – tailored to very different needs. One slice of the network can be reserved for emergency services, another for streaming services, and a third for autonomous vehicles.

This flexibility makes 5G the foundation for the digital future – from healthcare to industry, from agriculture to gaming.

What is the difference between 4G and 5G?

To understand what the difference between 4G and 5G is, it’s worth making a direct comparison. Both mobile standards are designed for internet use on the go, but 5G takes the experience to a whole new level.

Here’s an overview of the key differences:

These differences become especially noticeable in situations with high network load, such as large events, or when you use many devices at the same time – for example in a smart home or when working from your home office.

Advantages of 5G over 4G at a glance:

• Faster streaming in HD and 4K – even on the go
• Seamless gaming with low latency
• Better stability with many users connected at once
• Future-ready for applications like IoT, AR, and connected vehicles

With 5G, you’re technically well equipped for the years to come – whether for personal or professional use.

But how secure is 5G?

Security is becoming increasingly important in mobile networks – especially with 5G. The new standard brings improvements in encryption, authentication, and network access control.

However, this doesn’t mean that risks are completely eliminated. The more devices are connected, the more potential entry points exist. That’s why it’s important for users to stay vigilant as well.

What should users pay attention to?

You should always make sure your devices are running the latest software versions. Safe use of apps and passwords is also part of everyday digital life. If you use your smartphone as a hotspot, set a strong password and monitor which devices are allowed to connect.

Choosing the right network provider also plays a role. Providers with true 5G standalone networks generally offer more stable and secure connections, since they are not dependent on older 4G infrastructures.

What does 5G offer in everyday life?

Many people wonder whether 5G really makes a noticeable difference. The answer: yes – especially when you rely on a fast, stable connection.

With streaming, you can load HD or even 4K movies in seconds – with no buffering. For gaming, the low latency enables a smooth and responsive experience, even on the go. And when using cloud services or remote workstations, everything runs significantly faster and more reliably.

Even if you’re not actively using 5G, you still benefit from it indirectly: less network congestion, faster page loading, and better reception in busy areas like train stations or events.

5G at home – a real alternative?

In many areas of Switzerland, 5G is already a real alternative to DSL or fiber optics. Providers offer 5G routers that let you access fast internet at home – without complicated installation or long waiting times.

This is a major advantage, especially in rural regions where the expansion of traditional wired networks is progressing more slowly. The data speeds are often comparable to wired internet – and the stability is impressive.

Where is 5G already available in Switzerland?

Switzerland is one of the pioneers in 5G expansion. 5G is already available in most cities and urban areas. But rural regions are increasingly being connected as well.

Tip: yallo also offers attractive 5G home Internet and 5G mobile plans!

Challenges: what is still holding back 5G expansion?

Despite technological progress, there are still some challenges. Expanding the network is expensive and requires many new antennas, especially in urban areas. There are also ongoing discussions about the health effects of the new frequencies – even though current limits are strictly observed.

Another issue: many users don’t know whether they’re already using true 5G or just a hybrid version still based on 4G technology. Clear communication from providers is essential here.

A look into the future: what comes after 5G?

Even though 5G is only just being rolled out, researchers are already thinking about the next generation: 6G. It’s not just about even higher speeds, but about full integration of artificial intelligence, quantum communication, and holographic data transmission.

What role will AI play in 6G?

Artificial intelligence will not just play a supporting role in 6G but will actively shape the infrastructure. Thanks to intelligent algorithms, networks will be able to optimize themselves, detect congestion, and automatically allocate capacity. Applications like autonomous vehicles or digital twins in industry will benefit greatly from AI-driven network management.

The advantage: better performance, lower energy consumption, and more dynamic adaptation to user needs. AI will become the heart of the mobile future.

Until then, 5G will remain the standard for many years – and with new applications like augmented reality, connected healthcare, and smart cities, it will sustainably transform the way we live.

In a nutshell

Now you know what 5G internet is, what advantages it has over 4G, and what 5G technology truly means. Whether you want faster browsing at home, smooth streaming on the go, or rely on stable connections for work – 5G is ready: for you, for Switzerland, for the future.