There’s no question that 5G will provide enormous advantages over older networks when it comes to speed and bandwidth capacity, but 5G does have a glaring limitation that will make it difficult to replace older networks for some time: signal penetration. The higher frequencies that will be utilized by 5G networks are less able to penetrate walls and other obstructions than lower spectrum, meaning DAS or small cells may be needed in office buildings and other indoor venues – but there may be limitations in utilizing those types of systems, currently used for 3G and 4G in signal-challenged spaces, with 5G.
