When developers are not allowed to use all available frequencies of the 5G network, that means there is a slower network for people in Eastern Finnmark.
This has been confirmed by both Telenor and the National Communications Authority.
Limited 5G in the region was first discussed by Sur Varanger newspaper.
Bernt Nielsen in Kirkenes was among those interacting.
– It would be negative for the region’s reputation and actual use of technology if we lag behind the rest of the country. It is totally unacceptable.
Nielsen is a corporate director and a member of the board of directors for several companies and organizations. He believes that the 5G network is a very crucial foundation for future-oriented technology.
There are new products and technology solutions all the time. If we lack the basic infrastructure and coverage provided by the 5G network, we will not be able to use it. Nielsen believes it can hold people back, both individuals and businesses.
Defense use
The frequencies on which the 5G network is based are already being used for other purposes in the region. It’s creating limitations, says John Evind Filior, of the National Communications Authority.
The Norwegian Armed Forces have some kind of frequencies that need to be protected. This means that some of the frequencies we use for 5G cannot be used in East Finnmark.
The restrictions on 5G affect six of Finnmark’s easternmost municipalities, namely Tanna, Batsfjord, Vardo, Vadso, Nessippi and Faranger sur.
Additionally, Velure mentions proximity to the border as a problem. For example, the frequency used for cell phones in Norway can be used for air communications in another country. Then there will be a breakdown.
– We have to agree with neighboring countries on how they use frequencies. It does not differ from Russia to Sweden and Finland. We have to do it with all our neighbors. Hence it is the case that some countries have a different kind of frequency usage than Norway. Then, there may be stronger border restrictions for our use if neighboring countries have a different type of use that requires a greater degree of protection, Velure explains.
hanging from the back
Bernt Nielsen does not expect dire consequences overnight, but fears that East Finnmark will become a big hole as new 5G-related technology continues to arrive.
From luxury to road construction and aviation, 5G offers entirely new opportunities. If we don’t have real 5G coverage here, you can’t use this type of equipment and products, says Nielsen.
Defense-related restrictions that Norway has agreed or not dared to bring up with the Russians, which just need to be cleaned up.
Hope things don’t go wrong
Telenor is currently expanding its 5G network in Eastern Finnmark. The plan is for a large part of the development to be completed in 2023.
Bjorn Amundsen, Telenor’s director of coverage, hopes the somewhat lower speed won’t have much to say to those who live in parts of eastern Finnmark where frequencies are shielded.
The company will implement technical solutions to the best of its ability.
– We have to use the other frequency spectra that we are currently using for 4G and have a different distribution between 4G and 5G. Without exaggerating the technique, Amundsen says, we hope it won’t have serious consequences for customers.
– There is not the same number of people living in sur-Varanger as, for example, in Alta or Tromsø. So we hope and believe that things will go well.
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