The requirements for improvements in the performance of protection, automation and control (PAC) systems in a smart grid require the use of communications to meet them. Wireless communications technologies, smart mobile devices and cloud computing can revolutionize future PAC implementations. 1G (standing for first generation) was a name used in the 1980s for the first wireless networks. These were analog communications signals modulated typically to 150 MHz and up.

The second generation (2G) was introduced in the early 1990s bringing three primary benefits: much higher efficiency than 1G networks, digital encryption of phone conversations and the introduction of data services for mobile, starting with SMS text messages. 3G (Third Generation) is the popular name for the International Mobile Telecommunications - 2000 family of standards for mobile telecommunications developed by the International Telecommu- nication Union (ITU).

ITU is the organization that oversees the standards of the present wireless networks. 3G was established in the late 1990s and allows simultaneous use of speech and data services and higher data rates (at least 200 kbit/s peak bit rate). It is commonly available around the world today, reaching downlink speeds of up to 14 Mbits/sec, allowing multimedia applications.

ITU is now working on the fourth generation of wireless telecommunications technology. The goal is to significantly improve the quality of service with a focus on data exchange and mobile communications. One of the requirements is to achieve high data speed transfer rate of at least 100 Mbits/sec while a user is physically moving at high speeds and 1 Gbit/sec  in a fixed position. Several working groups are developing the 4G network. Some propose the implementation of WiMax, as well as packet-based information exchange based on standard IP technology.

An important issue that may be critical to the implementation of 4G networks is antennas. This is required for the reuse of some technologies developed for 2G and 3G networks. The concept of Smart antennas is being developed with spacial multiplexing considered to be one solution. It uses a series of antennas linked into a single transmitter and receiver. These antennas are capable of functioning simultaneously, speeding up the space-time data exchange rates.