WEB OF INTRIGUE: WHAT 5G ROW MEANS FOR UK

What is 5G? Third generation – or 3G – mobile phone standards ushered in the era of mobile internet for consumers, while 4G allowed users to watch videos on the move. 5G is the next generation, with huge implications for the amount of data that can be transferred. The major advantage of 5G is likely to be for industry, where the real-time transfer of data is critical for automation in factories and supply chains.

How does it work? 5G needs cables in the ground, just like broadband, but also antennae called ‘cells’, which transmit the signals over the airwaves. What is Huawei’s role in this?

The Chinese giant has become the world’s key manufacturer of internet equipment used by major telecoms players such as BT and Vodafone – making both the cable and cells. It is among several companies that specialise in this technology, along with Ericsson and Nokia.

Why is Huawei controversial?

Critics argue that the Chinese state could gain access to Huawei’s network if it wanted to because of the way business works in China. Huawei denies this and insists it is independent from the state. Why don’t we just use other firms? We already do. The 5G infrastructure is a complex network that requires several firms’ cables and equipment to be layered on top of the other. Huawei’s kit is said to be cheaper but also better, according to some experts. But BT and Vodafone have already stopped fitting Huawei’s technology in the most sensitive part of the network, known as the ‘core’. Why are Huawei’s critics worried about 5G but not broadband? Increasing amounts of sensitive data will be transmitted via 5G because it can transfer data in real time. That means more is at stake if the network is hacked.