3G technology is considered the “third generation” in mobile technology and has been providing services to mobile phone users for over 10 years. 3G ushered in the smartphone era by allowing users to check email, text, call and stream data on their devices. “The transfer speed for 3G networks is between 128 and 144 kbps (kilobits per second) for fast-moving devices and 384 kbps for slow-moving ones (such as pedestrians). For fixed wireless LANs, the speed goes beyond 2 Mbps.” 1Services and applications include CDMA 2000, UMTS, EDGE, EV-DO and HSDPA representing the different network standards and the corresponding upgrade and increase in data transmission speed. The 3G network architecture is based on a large-area cell structure and uses a combination of circuit and packet switching. “Circuit switching is a very old technology that has been used in telephone systems for a very long time.” 2Packet switching is the predominant technology used in 4G and uses resources only when they are needed and does not require maintaining them throughout the entire connection like circuit switching. Some may assume that all cellular users are on 4G but in reality there are many areas that lack 4G coverage. Furthermore, at the moment, 3G technology still provides the basic service necessary for voice transmissions. In the near future, voice will also be used on the LTE network. 3G services can still provide reliability for many consumers. If an individual doesn't need to stream a lot of videos/music or make a lot of chats or video calls, most of their basic cellphone needs can be met with 3G. Some smaller retailers offer big discounts to mobile customers who only use the 3G network. 4G technology has introduced fourth generation network functionality to mobile devices...... middle of paper......n, M., & Grabianowski, E. (n.d.). HowStuffWorks "WiMAX Coverage and Speed." How things work. Retrieved May 2, 2014, from http://computer.howstuffworks.com/wimax2.htmFarrell, M., & Bray, H. (n.d.). A new era of competition in wireless: The Boston Globe. BostonGlobe.com. Retrieved May 4, 2014, from http://www.bostonglobe.com/business/2014/01/09/new-era-competition-wireless/fQDEeU7sF7ubiTlDpOObuN/story.htmlKumar, A., Suman. & Renu. (n.d.). Comparison of 3G wireless networks and 4G wireless networks: repost. Retrieved May 4, 2014, from http://www.ripublication.com/irph/ijece/ijecev6n1_01.pdfSegan, S. (n.d.). 3G vs 4G: What's the difference? PCMAG. Retrieved May 4, 2014, from http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2399984,00.aspUnuth, N. (n.d.). 3G - What is 3G? About.com Voice over IP. Retrieved May 4, 2014, from http://voip.about.com/od/mobilevoip/p/3G.htm