4G Features and Challenges

Some key features (primarily from users ’ points of view) of 4G mobile networks are as follows:

● High usability: anytime, anywhere, and with any technology;
● Support for multimedia services at low transmission cost;
● Personalization;
● Integrated services.

4G networks will be all-IP-based heterogeneous networks that will allow users to use any system anytime and anywhere. Users carrying an integrated terminal can use a wide range of applications provided by multiple wireless networks.

4G systems will provide not only telecommunications services, but also data and multimedia services. To support multimedia services, high-data-rate services with system reliability will be provided. At the same time, a low per-bit-transmission cost will be maintained by an improved spectral efficiency of the system.

Personalized service will be provided by 4G networks. It is expected that when 4G services are launched, users in widely different locations, occupations, and economic classes will use the services. In order to meet the demands of these diverse users, service providers will design personal and customized service for them. 4G systems will also provide facilities for integrated services. Users can use multiple services from any service provider at the same time.

To migrate current systems to 4G with the above-mentioned features, we have to face a number of challenges.

Source of Information : Elsevier Wireless Networking Complete 2010