What is LTE and how does it differ from 4G and LTE-A?

Introduction – 

These days, the new 5G network has become accessible to a vast number of people, but one of the surprising things that you will know is that individuals still continue to use 4G and LTE due to the accessibility, which is great all around the world. The network can be used interchangeably. Besides all of that, there is a huge difference between LTE and 4G. Many people are there who have this question what is lte? So, before we know what is LTE, let’s look at the distinction. The difference lies in the performance of these networks and the speed of the internet. So, first, let us know the basics: what is 4G and where does it stem from? Let us have a look at it.

About 4G: 

The past of 4G comes from the new standards that were issued by the ITU-R, i.e., the radiocommunication sector, in 2008, which persuaded the mobile networks to update the speed to at least 100 megabits per second. During that time, the number was not attainable, but the new standard was there to inspire the developers to provide better technology. A few years later, the technology came in consonance with the standards and the most carriers though to click to 4G network. Now, there were questions like what made the 4G stand out from the past technology and was the change from the spread spectrum radio technology to OFDMA multi-carrier broadcast. So, this allowed a high upload and speed for download and also the use to a broader range of services like that of social media, video, gaming and so on.

Long Term Evolution (LTE): 

Many people would like to know the full form of LTE. LTE also means long-term evolution. LTE is one such thing that bridged the hole between the not attainable new standards from the reality and the ITU-R. LTE worked like an improvement over its predecessor. And, besides that, 3G did not fulfil the needs of becoming the next generation, or 4G, in such a scenario. LTE gave a better user experience and helped many mobile networks advertise 4G speeds without having access to the technology that is available. Also, many times, LTE is referred to as “4G LTE,” which makes the user think that they are using 4G, but the truth is that they are still using the LTE technology. Though, this is something that causes and also continues to cause greater confusion, LTE was a pivotal upgrade from the technology of 3G.

Difference Between 4G vs. LTE – 

The difference between 4G and LTE is even more confusing when LTE-A, i.e., Long Term Evolution—Advanced, has been developed. In 2011, LTE-A was finally standardised and made accessible to a large number of people. This technology is quick and trustworthy, and it also offers a higher bandwidth compared to regular LTE. It is being the technology which is close to 4G at a time, besides that LTE -advanced allowed 2 to 3 times higher speed compared to LTE. Speed is one of the main differences between 4G and LTE. If we look at the original LTE, then 4G is significantly faster. LTE provides only 100 MBPS, while 4G offers up to 1000 MBPS. But if we take a look at the LTE-A speed, the difference will soon go away, and it also offers 1000 MBPS. So, due to this, there is no precise answer, as it mainly depends on which technology people are using, whether LTE or LTE-A. As most of the networks these days offer LTE-A, the majority of individuals enjoy high upload and download speeds.

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About the Author: Rachel

Rachel Mitchell: A seasoned journalist turned blogger, Rachel provides insightful commentary and analysis on current affairs. Her blog is a go-to resource for those seeking an informed perspective on today's top news stories.