5G connectivity is set to disrupt how enterprises implement technology. Source: Shutterstock

5G connectivity is set to disrupt how enterprises implement technology. Source: Shutterstock

How can businesses use 5G to better leverage cloud computing?

OVER THE past decade, cloud computing has firmly placed itself as definitive technology of the new century, transforming not only how businesses operate and deliver services, but also how society consumes them.

The technology that took shape in the early 2000s has also been one of the main drivers of digital transformation, allowing industries to pursue more agile and nimble approaches towards deploying innovative solutions.

Small- and medium-sized businesses could effortlessly implement ERP or CRM software without breaking the bank, thanks to scalable and flexible cloud-based solutions.

But the proliferation of cloud computing and other cloud-based platforms is largely made possible by developments in network technology.

Without reliable connection and low latency, cloud computing would not have enjoyed the buy-in and the uptake rate that has pushed it to mainstream enterprise technology.

And the next generation of wireless network technology, 5G, is expected to cause yet another seismic shift in the tech world, disrupting cloud computing as well. The question remains, will 5G boost the uptake of cloud, or completely kill it?

Will the cloud be rendered obsolete?

When it comes to the cloud as a technology, two possible scenarios could transpire from the emergence of 5G technology.

With ultra-fast connectivity, cloud platforms, at least in their current form, might be rendered obsolete.

5G will, without a doubt, enable adoption of smarter devices, that will be interconnected, which will process and trigger actions on data, on edge networks, in real time.

One of the primary advantages of cloud computing, which is the decentralized infrastructure and reduced latency, would no longer be a factor with the speed and reliability that a 5G connection brings.

On the flipside, however, 5G networks could also further enhance and propel cloud computing to greater heights. This is mainly because of the massive bandwidth the system provides.

The increase in bandwidth, speed, and reliability enables solution providers to pack more power and capability to their cloud-based platforms.

Further, particular features that come with 5G such as network slicing capabilities that allow businesses to optimize traffic to optimize the performances of cloud computing further, will also become more accessible.

Other than that, 5G technology, which is expected to reach more areas than its predecessors, will also allow more users and businesses to get on board and leverage cloud computing infrastructure.

Enterprises who were until now restricted by technological barriers could deploy cutting edge business analytics and get caught up with the digital journey that had their counterpart in the more developed geographical areas had previously enjoyed.

In short, 5G is expected to transform technology, specifically cloud computing, in significant ways. And if all the indicators are correct, increased adoption of cloud computing platforms could be expected, when 5G networks roll out in the next few years.