What is 2G?
2G is the second generation of mobile telecommunications, introduced commercially in 1991. It marked the historic shift from analog (1G) to digital radio signals, dramatically improving voice quality, call security, and spectrum efficiency. GSM became the dominant global standard, introducing the SIM card and enabling SMS — a service that transformed how people communicate.
How Does 2G Work?
2G networks use digital encoding (TDMA in GSM, CDMA in cdmaOne) to transmit voice. GSM operates on 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands. Data services were added progressively: GPRS (2.5G) introduced packet-switched data at up to 114 kbps, and EDGE (2.75G) improved this to 384 kbps using 8-PSK modulation.
Use Cases
Voice calls, SMS/MMS messaging, basic mobile internet (WAP), machine-to-machine (M2M) IoT devices. Many NB-IoT deployments reuse 2G spectrum bands. 2G networks remain operational in many regions for legacy IoT and basic connectivity.
3GPP / Standards Reference
3GPP TS 45-series (GSM/GPRS/EDGE Radio Access Network)
RELATED TERMS
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This glossary entry is part of the 5GWorldPro Complete 5G Glossary. To go deeper into 5G architecture and technology, explore our 5G Training courses.
