To the Editor:

Public officials and the general public are largely unaware of the term “5G,” and if they are aware, their awareness comes solely from the PR that the telecom companies use in their advertising.

5G refers to the fifth generation of wireless technology. The public deserves accurate, unbiased information about the technical benefits of wired broadband internet over the much hyped 5G technology being rolled out in Rhode Island. Here are three facts explaining why wired communications are superior to wireless.

First, wired communications are more secure than wireless ones. Wireless communications – radio, cellphones and Wi-Fi – can be easily intercepted. In contrast, to hack a wired transmission is more difficult. We already have wired broadband lines on most utility poles in Rhode Island. We need to make sure that all of these lines are connected to homes and businesses.

Second, the rollout of 5G is invasive. “Small” cells arrive atop telephone poles outside our homes, businesses, and places of worship. They are outfitted on residential high rises, abandoned factories, and towers. 5G transmission can be disrupted by rain, snow or foliage. Therefore, 5G cells must be placed every 200 yards or every two to 10 homes.

5G’s wireless radiation enables the Internet of Things (IoT), which is a deeper invasion. The IoT connects every wireless device to the internet. “Smart” technology is already appearing in everyday household appliances such as TVs, coffee makers and wearables, which all emit radiation. Considering the insecurity of wireless technology, the push towards more surveillance and data-sharing is perilous. Wired connections do not pose these risks.

The third reason wired broadband is better than 5G is that “small cells” are energy guzzlers. Wired fiber optic technology has been used for 40 years. The reason telecoms want 5G instead is that it is more cost effective for them to emit radiation from the poles’ transmitters than to connect them with wires to the premises. Wireless radiation uses 10 times the energy that wired connections do, according to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

In summary, wired communications to the premises has many benefits over 5G. Fiber-optics are of the highest speed and reliability, and are far more secure. Our personal, professional, medical, and financial information will be kept safe. Ultimately, the escalating energy costs to power the devices can be put to better use, to improve the lives of all.

Sheila Resseger

Cranston

The author is a member of 5G Free RI.