# Cost-Benefit Assessment of 5G Rollout: Insights from Brazil
## 1 Introduction  
The viability of exploiting higher-frequency radio waves via 5G marks a significant transformation in the telecommunications landscape, promising increased capacity and speed of existing connectivity, in addition to enabling a range of new applications and services. Given the multitude of possibilities, it becomes essential to conduct a robust assessment of the economic performance of competing engineering systems. The role of the techno-economic assessment (TEA) is central in this context, providing a quantitative methodology that allows for the evaluation of such performances in monetary terms. Assessing cost structures and revenue projections is crucial to facilitate informed decision making regarding the development and implementation of new technologies. The TEA adopts a holistic approach to the process, evaluating potential externalities beyond direct and indirect costs, such as the environmental impact, data transmission efficiency, and coverage reach. This multidimensional approach provides a robust framework for assessing the economic and technological impacts of the evaluated structures. From a cost perspective, the methodology proposes modeling by distinguishing between capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX), aggregating them as the total cost of ownership (TCO). TCO analysis offers a comprehensive perspective on the economic impact over time, allowing for a more accurate assessment of the feasibility and economic sustainability of emerging technologies. This paper focuses on the cost analysis and economic viability of implementing 5G networks, particularly focusing on the Brazilian scenario. By reviewing significant international studies and practices, this work aims to establish a solid framework for cost modeling and compare the economic feasibility of various deployment strategies. The objectives include quantifying the CAPEX and OPEX costs associated with the implementation and long-term operation of 5G. To provide a comprehensive perspective, this study examines 5G deployment practices in various countries, including the United States, India, Europe, and Latin America. In the United States, the leadership in 5G technology is characterized by pioneering approaches and significant contributions to network development. India's vast territory and diverse socioeconomic conditions offer a relevant comparison for Brazil, providing insights into 5G strategies in emerging markets. Latin American countries, which share similar challenges regarding extensive rural areas and diverse geographic conditions, are also considered. Furthermore, this study evaluates 5G infrastructure sharing models in rural European regions, highlighting various strategies and their techno-economic implications. In the Brazilian context, this study focuses on specific aspects of the implementation of 5G technology. Initially, the application of 5G in remote areas is analyzed, highlighting the challenges faced and the opportunities to promote digital inclusion in these regions. A case study of the southern region of Brazil is conducted to analyze local challenges and opportunities in 5G deployment, providing a focused examination of regional dynamics and their impact on the feasibility of 5G networks. By highlighting these comparisons and drawing insights from international practices, this article aims to contribute significantly to the ongoing discourse on the development and deployment of 5G networks in Brazil. The goal is to inform stakeholders in the telecommunications sector and improve the analysis of cost structures to support the sustainable implementation of this new technology. While numerous techno-economic studies have explored 5G deployment in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia, there remains a gap in the literature concerning Latin America, particularly in assessing the cost structures and regulatory challenges of rural deployment.