Yes: basic 5G (5G NSA) uses the 4G computing system and is the most widely deployed. Advanced 5G (5G SA) has its own computer network.
The basic form of 5G is called 5G non-standalone or 5G NSA. This uses a 4G band and a 5G band.
The 5G band sends data to the base station, but 5G NSA still needs the 4G computer system (known as the Network Core) to route calls and send the data to the internet. The 4G band provides technical control and connects to the computer network.
5G NSA is the most widely deployed form of 5G and in SignalTracker it is shown with the 4G band in a speedo and the 5G band as a slider.
The advanced form of 5G, known as 5G standalone or 5G SA, is relatively rare and as of late 2024 has been deployed in few countries.
As it uses its own 5G computer network, rather than the legacy 4G system, it does not need to connect using a 4G and a 5G band. In SignalTracker, the signal strength would be displayed using a single speedo with the text “5G SA” above.
