Will 5G Replace Cable? (5G vs DOCSIS 3.1) — A Detailed Guide

5G is better than DOCSIS 3.1 cables in many terms. It offers a faster internet connection than broadband cables. Besides, 5G has lower latency and is compatible with smart devices. However, it requires an Ethernet or LAN port to connect DOCSIS 3.1 cables. Thus, you can’t connect it to smartphones or voice assistants.

A DOCSIS cable offers 10-50 Mbps download speed. Whereas, you can download the files at 1 Gbps speed using a 5G connection. The upload speed of 5G Wi-Fi is more than modem cables. Currently, 14 million people use 5G services over broadband. And, this number might increase in the future.

It can be assumed that 5G might replace cable connections. 5G is more reliable and secure than other networks. Moreover, you can stream HD contents at 10 Gbps speed with 5G.

But, you can’t do the same using a DOCSIS 3.1 cable. You may get buffering or lagging issues when using a cable. Do you use a network cable and think about getting a 5G network? Check the debate of 5G vs DOCSIS 3.1 to make the ultimate decision.

Are 5G and DOCSIS 3.1 the Same?

5G refers to the fifth-generation cellular wireless technology. And, DOCSIS 3.1 is the latest technology which is developed by cable operations. It delivers Gigabit services over a wired line to the devices. Thus, these two technologies differ from one another.

The latest DOCSIS 3.1 standard supports the 5G requirements. The cable operators have upgraded the technology to provide mobile services efficiently. And, this will work on the next-generation smartphones in the future. But, only a few DOCSIS 3.1 features might work on the 5G network.

5G vs DOCSIS 3.1 — Which One Provides Fastest Internet Connection?

DOCSIS 3.1 cable offers fibre-like internet speeds. It can deliver an average of 500 Mbps to 10 Gbps speed. You can stream high-resolution games using this network cable.

Moreover, the users can watch 4K videos and surf the internet without issues. It is reliable and can protect the wireless network from online hackers.

Have you ever subscribed to a satellite ISP? Then, you might lose the internet connection during a heavy rainstorm. However, the users don’t have to fret over that when using 5G. This network provides high-speed internet, regardless of the weather conditions. Thus, 5G is more stable than DOCSIS 3.1 modem cables.

5G vs DOCSIS 3.1 — Which One Offers the Best Network Coverage?

5G’s mmWave frequencies cover a limited range. You will only get internet within 500 meters of the tower. Do you need to extend the network coverage? Install MIMO-enabled antennas for the 5G deployment. Furthermore, 5G’.s wave signals can’t penetrate through solid objects.

Walls or electronics might obstruct the network signals. And, this can generate problems accessing the internet. The 5G connection might slow down its speed beyond 200 feet. Don’t let a network issue hinder your internet-related tasks. Use a DOCSIS cable to fix the problem.

Therefore, 5G is not the best alternative to DOCSIS 3.1 cables. Go with a cable connection if you need internet all over the house. Because DOCSIS’s coverage is more than what a 5G network can overlay. However, 5G might be ideal for the rural areas where high-speed internet is required.

5G vs DOCSIS 3.1 — Which One Provides More Flexibility?

Many individuals think DOCSIS uses coaxial cables and is inferior to 5G. But, this statement is completely wrong. Though, wireless access to the internet provides more flexibility. But, there are certain limitations associated with 5G.

You need to be in the close range to 5G infrastructure to get the best connection. Besides, the 5G network isn’t compatible with the older devices. But, you can use DOCSIS 3.1 cable in the old PC or laptop models. Moreover, there is also a bandwidth limitation in 5G connections.

The home 5G provides the same speed as LTE. And, you may get weak signals outside the home or office premises. This can decline your online streaming or gaming experience. Do you want to install a 5G-compatible antenna to improve signal quality? Don’t do that if you have DOCSIS 3.1.

5G vs DOCSIS 3.1 — Which One offers Lower Latency?

It is important to consider the latency rate in the 5G vs DOCSIS 3.1 debate. Latency refers to the time of sending and receiving data over the network. And, 5G technology can transfer information in 1 millisecond. Whereas, the DOCSIS 3.1 cable takes 14 milliseconds to transmit data.

This indicates that 5G has a lower latency rate than the cable. But, only applications, such as autonomous vehicles, need such low latency. Besides, you will face network issues in this data speed or latency. However, the users with DOCSIS cables won’t experience this problem.

5G vs DOCSIS 3.1 — Which One is More Useful?

There are limited 5G MMW applications. You can only use this technology in smart IoT devices. Additionally, 5G can be used for M2M data transmission. The large offices can also take advantage of this connection. However, these are industrial applicants, not applicable to home usage.

Use DOCSIS 3.1 to get a faster internet connection at home. Moreover, the Wi-Fi speed won’t slow down even if more than 2 devices are connected. Everyone can stream 4K videos without buffering. Besides, multiple users can play games without experiencing ping issues. So, the cable connection is still far better than 5G.

Is 5G a Suitable Alternative for Cable Replacement?

5G can’t replace the DOCSIS 3.1 cables. But, it can reduce the usage of network cables in the coming days. Many are facing network issues currently in the 5G network. But, the MIMO technology might resolve the problem.

Moreover, it uses 96 antennas to transfer data simultaneously on different devices. 5G might also include Edge computing to create more storage. And, these features will offer more benefits to the large enterprises. But, the remote workers can continue using DOCSIS 3.1 cable rather than upgrading the network.