The 3450 MHz band (or 3.45 GHz band) is part of the mid-band spectrum used primarily for 5G wireless communication in several countries, including the United States and Canada. It offers a balance of speed, capacity, and coverage — making it ideal for mobile and fixed wireless networks.
Table of Contents
📡 What Is the 3450 MHz Band Used For?
🛰️ 5G Networks
- The 3450–3550 MHz range is allocated for mid-band 5G.
- It supports high data rates and low latency, especially in urban and suburban deployments.
- Often aggregated with CBRS (3550–3700 MHz) and C-band (3700–3980 MHz) for greater 5G throughput.
🏢 Private 5G and Enterprise Wireless
- Enterprises use this band for private 5G networks, supporting IoT, automation, and high-speed internal communication.
🏠 Fixed Wireless Access (FWA)
- Internet service providers use this band for last-mile broadband, especially in underserved rural areas.
🛡️ U.S. Spectrum Context
In the United States, the 3450–3550 MHz band is referred to as the 3.45 GHz Service.
- It was auctioned in 2021 (Auction 110) for commercial use.
- Major carriers like AT&T, Dish, T-Mobile, and UScellular now deploy 5G NR (New Radio) in this band.
- Still shares access with military radar systems, managed through coordination zones.
🌍 Global Use
- In Canada, the 3450–3650 MHz band is licensed for 5G services and is part of the broader 3500 MHz spectrum.
- In many countries, it falls under 3GPP Band n78, one of the most common 5G NR bands globally.
🔍 Key Specs
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 3450–3550 MHz (US) |
| Band Name | 3.45 GHz Service |
| 3GPP 5G Band | n78 (includes 3300–3800 MHz) |
| Duplex Mode | TDD (Time Division Duplex) |
| Primary Use | 5G, Fixed Wireless, Private LTE |