Compare the available connectivity layers

Slicing is one architectural capability inside a much wider choice of radio technologies.

Use APN, VPN, QoS and private mobile networking where appropriate.

Useful for coverage and capacity but lacks the complete 5G Core architecture.

Enables service-based Core functions, native 5G session control and network slicing.

Targets wearables, industrial devices, video and lower-cost FWA classes.

Extends 5G towards lower-complexity device classes.

Strong fit for mobile, battery-powered IoT where 5G slicing is unnecessary.

Optimised for small data volumes, deep coverage and long battery life.

Targets passive or near-passive tags rather than conventional broadband devices.

Extends coverage but introduces propagation, capacity and mobility constraints.