3G, 4G, 5G, and LTE are cellular networking technologies.
3G
Originally cellular networking technologies focused only on voice communication. With 3G, more data functionality was added. 3G updates provided improved speeds (about several megabits per second). Bandwidth was also improved to allow for additional functionality such as GPS, mobile tv, video on demand, and video conferencing.
3G allowed for information transfer of at least 0.2 Mbps.
4G
4G worked to consolidate the wireless technologies in use. 4G converged GSM (GLosbal System for Mobile Communications) and CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access).
4G provided speeds of up to 100 Mbps.
LTE
LTE stands for Long Term Evolution. LTE is based on GSM and Edge (Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution). The LTE standard supports download rates of 150 Mbit/s. An improved standard called LTE Advanced (LTE-A) supports speeds up to 300 Mbps for download and 75 Mbps upload.
5G
5G will launch worldwide in 2020. It provides performance improvements by using higher frequencies. It will increase the number of frequencies and will improve on data throughput. The target speed is 20 Gbps.
