IoT devices require reliable connectivity for a successful deployment. Businesses that can make this happen will gain valuable data and a competitive edge.
However, choosing the right IoT connectivity provider can be a difficult task. The primary factors include range, bandwidth capacity, and power consumption. The right choice should also accommodate your geographical location.
Reliability
If your IoT solution relies on cellular connectivity to transmit data or operate, it needs a network that will be reliable. Many factors impact IoT connectivity reliability. For example, you must consider power consumption, range, and bandwidth requirements. You’ll also need to know if your devices are static or mobile, local or international, and whether they’re deployed in rural or urban areas.
A reliable IoT connectivity provider will follow industry-standard security protocols and encrypt data to protect your sensitive information from hackers. They will also offer premium customer support to help you get in touch with someone who understands your specific IoT device connectivity application and is familiar with the technology used to support it.
For example, suppose you’re a developer of innovative home technologies like door locks and window sensors. In that case, you want to work with an IoT partner offering a managed connectivity as a service (CaaS) model. It allows you to source the proper connectivity through trusted carrier partnerships and serve as a one-stop shop for connectivity instead of working with multiple vendors.
IoT providers must be able to offer a variety of connectivity plans at different price points. They must also provide reliable and flexible solutions for the global nature of IoT deployments.
Scalability
A vital feature of an IoT connectivity solution is its ability to scale and future-proof your business. It is crucial if you are working with existing systems that need an upgrade. Some solutions require extensive system integration, while others are more flexible. It is also essential to consider the cost of the solution, including upfront costs, recurring monthly fees, and any data overage charges.
Reliability is another important factor when choosing an IoT connectivity provider. If your deployment is global, look for a provider that offers multiple carrier networks and network redundancies to prevent any lapses in communication—having redundant communication channels for critical IoT projects, like safety equipment or rescue drones.
Cellular is the most common IoT connectivity option because it provides a high level of reliability and allows devices to send large amounts of data over long distances. However, it is crucial to check that your cellular IoT connectivity provider has coverage in the areas where your devices will operate. If you have any doubts, look for a provider with a network map and see which cellular technology is used in the regions where your deployment will occur. In addition, many IoT connectivity providers offer eSIM technology, which allows devices to connect to the best available network over the air and eliminates the need for physical SIM swaps.
Security
It may seem obvious, but security is an essential factor to consider when choosing a connectivity provider. After all, a single network failure could compromise the ability of your device to transmit and receive data or, even worse, cause the devices to stop functioning altogether. Fortunately, a strong connectivity partner can help ensure that your IoT solution is secure and reliable.
For example, suppose you’re looking for an IoT connectivity solution that supports cellular-based M2M connections. In that case, choosing a highly scalable network with good network availability worldwide is best. Additionally, looking for a connectivity provider offering secure network infrastructure and premium customer support would be best. With a premium customer support team, you’ll be able to get a hold of someone who knows the ins and outs of your IoT connectivity solutions in seconds–24/7, 365.
It’s also crucial to evaluate a connectivity provider’s capabilities regarding encryption. Depending on the nature of your IoT project, you may need to use a network with robust encryption methods. It’s also important to consider a provider’s ability to respond to hacker intrusions quickly. A fast response time can help protect the integrity of your business and ensure that you can continue to function normally during an attack. A good IoT connectivity provider will have multiple carrier networks and offer a variety of plans.
Flexibility
When minutes of downtime are costly, you want a platform that can adapt quickly and efficiently to ensure the reliability of your connectivity. With the right IoT connectivity provider, you can rest assured that your device data is transmitted reliably no matter where your devices are deployed.
Choosing an IoT connectivity provider that can provide a customized plan for each use case is critical. For example, a construction project may require a short-range, low-bandwidth connection that can operate in one location without much data. Similarly, a manufacturing company with high-value assets that need to be tracked and logged to optimize their operations might have different needs that can only be met by a vast area network with a large data capacity.
In these cases, companies should work with a connectivity provider that prioritizes understanding the unique business processes supported by their connectivity solutions. They should have deep experience building, deploying, and managing cellular IoT networks for enterprise businesses of all shapes and sizes.
They should also be able to deliver a solution built on top of an extensive global network of roaming agreements and connectivity partners. It provides their customers with great flexibility and lets them get their devices up and running faster.