About this Video

• Video Title: Cellular Standards - CompTIA A+ 220-1101 - 1.4
• Channel: Professor Messer
• Speakers: Professor Messer
• Duration: 00:07:26

Introduction

This video from Professor Messer's CompTIA A+ 220-1101 series explains different cellular network standards, starting with the early 2G networks (GSM and CDMA), progressing to 3G, 4G (LTE), and 5G. It also covers PRL updates and the use of mobile phones as Wi-Fi hotspots.

Key Takeaways

• 2G Networks (GSM and CDMA): The early 2G networks, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) and CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), primarily supported voice communication with limited data capabilities. GSM was dominant globally, while CDMA was more common in the US (Verizon and Sprint).
• 3G Technology: Introduced in 1998, 3G offered significantly improved data speeds (several megabits per second), enabling features like GPS, mobile TV, and video streaming.
• 4G LTE: LTE (Long Term Evolution) converged GSM and CDMA standards, offering even faster speeds (up to 150 Mbps, or 300 Mbps with LTE Advanced).
• 5G Networks: The latest generation, offering greatly enhanced speeds (up to 10 Gbps eventually). Current rollout speeds are between 100 and 900 Mbps. High speeds enable broader IoT applications.
• PRL Updates: Preferred Roaming Lists (PRLs) are updates that help your phone identify network towers; these are often updated over-the-air (OTA).
• Wi-Fi Hotspot: Mobile phones can function as Wi-Fi hotspots, sharing their cellular data connection with other devices via 802.11 networks, though this may incur additional charges or data costs.