Beyond Wi-Fi: Unleashing the Potential of Private 4G and 5G for Large Venues

In an age when staying connected has become essential, high-speed wireless technology is a key component in business. This is true for most business models, including large entertainment venues.

Large venues are used for:

• Sporting events
• Concerts
• Festivals
• Business conventions
• Outdoor events

Connecting in these spaces is critical on many levels. Event attendees want to connect with one another and the outside world. Internally, staff and management need to connect a vast amount of technology together, including video streaming, audio amplification, and wireless communication.

Until now, Wi-Fi has lasted as the ultimate choice for wireless connectivity. Large venues and other private spaces call for a more advanced level of data transfer. This is where private 4G and private 5G networks come in.

In this blog, we’ll talk about the use of private LTE networks, how they work, where they come from, and where they’re going.

All About Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS)

The Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) is a type of frequency between 3.5 GHz and 3.7 GHz. Its primary use has been the U.S. Navy and ground satellites. Between private organizations with priority access, incumbent users like the Navy, and other authorized users, CBRS has a wide range of uses.

CBRS lets organizations create unique private 5G networks. These networks have wide coverage and less interference. CBRS provides ten times broader coverage than standard Wi-Fi both at inside and outside events. It allows for SIM authentication and encryption for maximum security.

Overcoming Wi-Fi Limitations

One of the reasons CBRS is so useful is because of the limitations of Wi-Fi in large venues. Bandwidth becomes congested when massive crowds converge on one network. A traditional Wi-Fi connection is weighed down by the volume of users at outdoor concerts and sporting events.

Another problem Wi-Fi encounters at large events is interference. Neighboring Wi-Fi networks play a role in the confusion of signal connectivity. Wi-Fi networks can be blocked by landscapes, metal objects, and other obstacles. This slows or halts signal strength and causes Wi-Fi to fail.

The final reason Wi-Fi requires a makeover is the security of it all. In a large outdoor venue, standard Wi-Fi becomes vulnerable to breaches. Breaches in security lead to cyber-attacks. This exposes users to threats and exposes venue equipment and technology to viruses and malware.

Bring on the Private 4G and Private 5G Networks

Private LTE, 4G, and 5G networks overcome these Wi-Fi shortcomings. These networks provide a boost in both speed and capacity. How? They use high-frequency bands and advanced techniques that let them withstand more users simultaneously without compromising on speed or performance.

Private networks of this kind are designed to provide streamlined coverage over wide areas. Large outdoor events or indoor concert venues can use a single signal to provide data to users and equipment.

A major benefit of 4G and 5G is the ability to network slice. Network slicing is exactly what it sounds like. Network administrators allocate slices of the network to different uses. At a large venue, the network could be spliced between communication, a live video feed, and audio enhancement.

Challenges Facing 4G and 5G Networks

While the technology is very real and used in a variety of applications already, there are some challenges to consider. 4G and 5G networks need a large chunk of upfront capital to get started. This investment includes an entirely new infrastructure with antennas, base stations, and backhaul connectivity.

Another obstacle for 4G and 5G networks is obtaining the licenses required to use them. Private network licensure is complicated. It requires an awareness of legal implications and an intensive regulatory process.

Finally, experience has shown private networks to have some problems integrating with existing IT setups. This can be overcome, but it requires advanced planning and an understanding of the components being used.

Other Uses

CBRS could become an invaluable tool for emergency services, entertainment industries, industrial services, robotics, and more. Its ability to overcome obstacles impeding connectivity makes it a prime candidate for remote workplaces like oil refineries, mines, and farms.

CBRS could increase safety and communication across these and other areas.

Contact VidOvation to Learn More

VidOvation is a leader in innovative technology for broadcasting live productions. We partner with businesses and event organizers for corporate audiovisual technology. Our goal is to lower expenses and increase productivity and workflow.

If you’re interested in learning more about technology compatible with 4G and 5G networks, we can help. Call VidOvation today at 949-777-5435 or visit us online.