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5G is the 5th generation of wireless technology. With full deployment over the next few years, it will enhance the lives of all Canadians. 5G connectivity will enable immersive video and gaming experiences, remote telehealth, self-driving vehicles, and new applications that will change the way we work, live and play.

The term MEC, also known as "multi-access edge computing", refers to computing that enables data processing, analytics, and communication capabilities down to where the data originates - at network gateways or directly at the endpoints, i.e., the edge. The aim is to reduce latency, ensure highly efficient network operation as well as service delivery, and to offer an improved user experience. Bringing computing closer to the data source, offers greater business agility through better control and faster insights, lowers operating expenses, and results in more efficient network bandwidth support1.

Internet of Things (IoT) enables machines and devices to communicate with each other directly or through a cloud environment in order to deliver actionable data quickly.

Any hardware device from which data is received in the network is considered as a "thing" in IoT.

An IoT system works by continuously sending, receiving, and analyzing data in a feedback loop. Analysis is performed by either humans or artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), in real time.

Covering over 99% of the population, Bell offers more coverage with access to the largest 4G network in Canada. In June 2020, Bell launched 5G, the next-generation wireless technology, and through ongoing investments, 5G is now offered in select areas across Canada. As we continue to roll out the 5G network across Canada, we encourage you to refer to our coverage map for the latest availability.

See Bell coverage map here.

GDC Edge is accessible anywhere in Canada. Please contact us for specific details regarding your location.

The AWS Wavelength Zone is located in Toronto, Ontario, but is accessible anywhere in Canada.

Bell offers a number of different network connectivity options to support various connectivity needs and use cases:

• 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE)

  • Ideal for high-demand bandwidth applications requiring lower latency than Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) networks. Connected car applications, drones, security cameras are some examples of 4G LTE solutions.

• Long Term Evolution category M1 (LTE-M)

  • LTE-M is used to connect a large amount of low-power and lower-bandwidth devices for extended lifetime use. Solutions such as fixed, mobile, or voice-enabled solutions require an LTE-M connection.

• 5G

  • 5G, the latest generation of wireless technology, allows for lower latency, greater bandwidth and is essential to operate large volumes of connected devices.

Bell offers multiple management options:

  1. Bell Control Centre lets you monitor and view the status of your entire network of IoT devices from a central online portal, set up automatic processes, receive alerts, fix technical issues promptly, and analyze and optimize data usage to reduce operational costs. Plus, choose between two account tiers and add features to address your specific business needs.
  2. Bell Management Centre helps you manage and monitor IoT devices, including LTE-M devices, and connections in real-time with leading-edge diagnostic tools. Bell Management Centre can help drive automation, improve processes and provide full insight and control of your IoT infrastructure.
  3. Consumer SIM cards are available for devices not requiring management tools.

No, the device must be connected to 5G.

You can check if your mobile phone is compatible with the Bell network by entering your device's 15-digit IMEI number here. If you are inquiring about a device other than a mobile phone, please contact us.

No. Application (HTTP/HTTPS) traffic originating from the Internet will be blocked with exception to ICMP traffic. However, TCP traffic originating from the Wavelength Zone can reach both the carrier network and the Internet. A TCP/UDP request from WL to the RAN is not allowed. It must be initiated by a mobile device.

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1. Source: Frost & Sullivan 5G and Edge Computing-Cloud Workloads Shifting to the Edge, Forecast to 2024 - K540-65, August 2020.

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