Enterprises are looking towards faster connectivity technology that can solve the challenges in implementing IoT devices and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. The current networking technology that is powering the mobile and static device falls short because of bandwidth curtailment and lag in data transfer. The need for innovation is greatly felt at various stages of network technology as the demand from consumers and enterprises is increasing.

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2019 displayed some of the most innovative networking technology that can actually solve some of the challenges. The show was held in Las Vegas from 8th to 11th Jan where many of the vendors announced different devices and technology that can impact both wired and wireless communication. Here are some of the top trends.

1. Gigabit Ethernet

One of the growing trends we saw is the adoption of 2.5 and 5 Gigabit of Ethernet or also known as 2.5/5 GbE. With the usage of IEEE 802.3bz standard that defines the 2.5/5 GbE, enterprises can use the same Cat5e cabling that’s being already used. Enterprises can save on the cabling cost and improve the data transfer speed. Currently, 1 GbE is standard that’s been used for data transfer which is much slower. The challenge for the enterprise is the inclusion of new hardware that includes the Network Interface Cards (NICs) for the speed boost.

Aquantia announced in the CES its recent provision of AQtion Multi-Gig Ethernet Controller that will be supported by the Asus. It will support the Multi-gig at Maximus XI extreme and Maximus XI formula motherboards.

2. 5G Technology

5G technology is all about wireless technology. The key at CES 2019 was the cellular communication engine that can power faster computing powers for mobile devices. QUALCOMM a semiconductor and telecommunication device maker that had created a buzz around the 5G technology, the company offered a view of 5G devices but non-functional. Enterprises such as Intel and Huawei that started the 5G device development also showed no 5G innovative devices.

T-mobile, however, has announced that it’s made first 5G calls using the 600 Mhz spectrum at the event. T-mobile has also announced that they have an active 5G network in close to 20 cities in the US.

3. Automotive Internet

The combinations of wired Ethernet and wireless 5G technology can play a very major role in the field of automotive internet. Modern day vehicles are increasingly becoming dependent on the connectivity for various critical tasks but it’s imperative that they maintain the network. Cellular or C-V2X showcased by Qualcomm and Savari. The various use cases that implement different types of technology for the intersection assistance and pedestrian assist.

Automaker Ford also showed great initiative by offering embedded connectivity but also universal connectivity for the mobility services. The automaker is also planning to implement the swarm technology to strengthen the safety-critical applications and mobility services where the cellular connection is absent.

4. Bluetooth Mesh

Though Bluetooth is widely being replaced by other tethering technology that offers mesh service with fast data transfer speed. Bluetooth will soon be coming to the market with mesh service. At CES 2019, multiple vendors announced that they will soon be coming together to support the emerging Bluetooth mesh. The Bluetooth mesh can be connected together for control, monitoring, and automation. Mesh networking can be used to grow the wireless networking standard that can be secured, reliable and faster. Home automation is being seen as one of the practical applications for the mesh network.

5. Wi-Fi 6

Wi-Fi 6 offers to be more secure, increase speed and more coverage. The current usage of 802.11ac Wi-Fi technology will be rebranded as IEEE 802.11ax and it’s one of the core networking themes that emerged in the CES 2019. The Wi-Fi Alliance used the opportunity to officially announce that the Wi-Fi certified program will validate the compliance and interoperability of devices new wireless technology across devices. Various hardware vendors announced that multiple vendors will support the Wi-Fi 6 rollout.

Qualcomm president Cristiano Amon said at CES 2019 that the users will be thrilled with the usage of the 5G technology and with faster connectivity it will offer a better experience. He also said that by 2019 Q2 around 30 devices will be available in the market with over 10 times faster speed. Cloud solutions can be offered along with the mobility of devices to support enterprise requirements.

Telstra CEO Andy Penn declined to comment on whether he got experience in using the 5G mobile phone. Telstra is Australia’s largest telecommunication company that builds and operates telecommunication network across the country. Speaking about the prices of 5G devices he said that many manufacturers are still working on the devices though there are some of the characteristics in 5G that will cost more. Thus making the devices costly than current smartphones. Though the companies have been tight-lipped about the pricing.

Though many enterprises presented with 5G devices mainly comprising of mobile devices but the underlying technology that will support the devices is still far from being placed physically at various points. Though some of the devices makers have made an effort to keep the rollout on time for the consumer market however when the complete potential will be realized is still a myth.

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