EXTRA! EXTRA! Read all about it—SHUTDOWNS ARE COMING!
It won’t be long until 2G and 3G network devices become a thing of the past. The inevitable end is near, but before you put this collection of obsolete technology in the rearview mirror, it’s important to educate yourself on the emerging trends of 4G LTE and 5G.
2G/3G Sunset—The Rise of 4G LTE and 5G Technology
New cellular plans affect companies all over the world. Mobile carriers will stop supporting 2G and 3G devices by 2022. With deadlines approaching, more businesses are encouraged to upgrade their infrastructure with technology powered by 4G and 5G capabilities. As you kick off your migration strategy, make sure to keep the following points in mind:
Important Deadlines
While Verizon and AT&T have already enforced an effective end to 2G, all carriers are expected to complete their sunset of 2 and 3G by 2022. As you start to prepare your network transition, it’s important to circle December 2021 on your calendar. By this time, T-Mobile and Sprint will have ended their 2G and 3G network programs.
Potential Roadblocks
Many issues exist for enterprises. For several companies, replacing network devices can be an intimidating task. The migration from 2G to 3G was complex enough, but this upcoming transition could reveal unforeseen challenges. AT&T predicts this move to be more difficult than the complete development of a new IoT solution. Since more than 50% of existing solutions are 2G and 3G, carriers will have their hands full trying to pull off the transition in a timely manner. Some of the common obstacles you might experience in the project include:
A lack of internal expertise
Failure to collaborate
Inability to scale
Budgeting issues
Poor project management
Security risks
Benefits of a Migration
The rise of 4G LTE certainly has its advantages. This new cellular technology provides faster, more robust network connectivity for businesses. In today’s information-driven age, this is a critical element for any operation. Whether you own a small business or manage a growing enterprise, it’s vital to support the organization with the most innovative and efficient resources. By making the leap to 4G LTE, you give your business the upper hand with the following benefits:
100% uptime (with no wired connection)
Seamless, instantaneous deployment process
Remote access to business applications
Less labor and little to no maintenance
Convenience and security
Long-term cost savings
Mobility and flexibility
Higher ability to scale
Larger file transfers
Plan Your Transition Now
Now that you know the pros and cons surrounding the retirement of 2G and 3G technology, it’s time to act. Carriers are moving quickly, so if you aren’t prioritizing your migration strategy you need to reconsider. The best approach is a proactive one, so don’t sit back and suffer the consequences of a 2G/3G shutdown. Fortunately, the experts at eSquared Communication Consulting are here to help keep you out of the dark. Make the transition hassle-free. Send us a message to learn more about the 4G/5G movement or our personalized migration programs.
