5. Other network communication technologies

This article focuses on mobile networks, in particular 3GPP, and therefore essentially on long-range networks managed by operators under spectrum licenses.

However, there are other possibilities, notably through the use of unlicensed spectrum bands. The allocation of spectrum bands is a complex subject, with international regulations managed by ITU, which every 4 years identifies spectrum bands for given uses (figure 18 ). But it's also a significant source of revenue for governments, as demonstrated by the auction of 3G and 4G licenses.