5G in rural and low-income areas: Are we ready?

Abstract

Current trends in telecommunication networks foresee the adoption of the fifth generation (5G) of wireless networks in the near future. However, a large number of people are living without coverage and connectivity. To face this issue, we consider the possibility of deploying 5G networks in rural and low-income zones. After detailing the current state-of-the-art, we consider the main challenges that need to be faced. Moreover, we define the main pillars to follow in order to deploy 5G networks in such zones, as well as a proposal of a future network architecture.