IoT Glossary
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3G sunset refers to the shutdown of legacy 3G networks by mobile carriers as they shift focus to more advanced 4G LTE and 5G technologies. This transition is happening to free up bandwidth for faster, more reliable connectivity that meets today’s data demands. As a result, any devices still relying on 3G networks will lose service, making it critical for businesses and individuals to upgrade to 4G- or 5G-compatible devices to stay connected.
3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) is a global collaboration that unites various telecommunications standards organizations, known as Organizational Partners. Established in 1998, 3GPP develops and maintains protocols for mobile telecommunications, including GSM, UMTS, LTE, and 5G NR. This collaborative effort ensures that mobile networks and devices worldwide adhere to consistent and interoperable standards, facilitating seamless connectivity and communication across different regions and technologies.
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Application Programming Interface (API) is a set of software protocols and tools that enables different applications to communicate with each other seamlessly. In the context of IoT, APIs facilitate the integration of various devices and platforms, allowing them to exchange data and perform coordinated functions. This interoperability is crucial for building cohesive IoT ecosystems where diverse technologies work together efficiently.
Access Point Name (APN) serves as the gateway between a mobile device and the internet over a cellular network. It defines the network path for all cellular data connectivity, ensuring devices can access external networks and services. Proper APN configuration is essential for enabling internet access and multimedia messaging on mobile devices.
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Bandwidth refers to the maximum rate at which data can be transmitted over a network connection, typically measured in bits per second (bps). Higher bandwidth indicates a greater capacity for data transfer, enabling faster and more efficient communication between devices. In the context of IoT and cellular networks, sufficient bandwidth is essential to support the data requirements of connected devices, ensuring seamless operation and real-time data exchange.
A billing cycle is the recurring interval at which a service provider issues invoices to customers for services rendered. In the context of IoT connectivity, managing billing cycles efficiently is crucial, especially when dealing with multiple carriers and diverse data plans. Utilizing a comprehensive connectivity management platform can streamline this process by consolidating billing information, automating invoicing, and providing a unified view of all charges, thereby reducing administrative overhead and enhancing accuracy.
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LTE Cat-M1, also known as LTE-M, is a low-power, wide-area cellular technology designed specifically for IoT applications. It operates within existing LTE networks, providing extended coverage, lower power consumption, and support for mobile devices like asset trackers and smart meters. LTE Cat-M1 enables reliable connectivity for IoT solutions that require better battery life and cost efficiency while still supporting voice and data transmission. Its ability to penetrate buildings and underground environments makes it a strong choice for industries like healthcare, logistics, and smart cities.
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A cellular modem is a device that enables electronic equipment to access the internet or other networks over cellular networks. It modulates and demodulates digital data into radio signals, facilitating wireless communication. Cellular modems are integral to various applications, including IoT devices, providing reliable connectivity in areas lacking traditional wired infrastructure. They come in multiple forms, such as USB dongles, embedded modules, and standalone units, and support various cellular technologies like LTE, LTE-M, and NB-IoT. In IoT deployments, selecting the appropriate cellular modem is crucial for ensuring optimal performance, coverage, and power efficiency.
Learn More about Zipit and Partners Announce Development Toolkit for Cellular IoT Solutions
A Connectivity Management Platform (CMP) is a centralized system designed to oversee and control IoT devices and their network connections across multiple carriers. It provides real-time insights into data usage, device status, and network performance, enabling businesses to manage their IoT deployments efficiently. Key features of a CMP include automated device provisioning, remote diagnostics, subscription billing, and the ability to manage SIM cards and data plans from a single interface. By streamlining these processes, a CMP reduces operational complexities and enhances scalability for IoT solutions.
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An IoT data plan is a package of cellular data that enables connected devices—such as industrial machinery, security cameras, or GPS trackers—to transmit and receive data over cellular networks. These plans specify data allowances, rates, and terms of service tailored to the unique requirements of IoT applications. Through a billing platform, OEMs can manage and package data as part of a subscription service for end users. By subscribing to an IoT data plan, devices equipped with SIM cards can automatically activate cellular services, facilitating seamless data transmission. Efficient management of these plans is crucial for monitoring data usage and ensuring devices operate optimally within the plan's parameters.
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Data pooling allows multiple IoT devices within a deployment to share a common pool of cellular data instead of being restricted to individual data limits. This approach optimizes data usage across devices, ensuring that unused data from low-usage devices can offset higher consumption elsewhere. By leveraging data pooling, businesses can reduce overage fees, simplify data management, and improve cost efficiency while maintaining seamless connectivity for all devices on the network.
IoT device certification is a comprehensive process that ensures Internet of Things (IoT) devices meet specific regulatory, industry, and carrier standards before deployment. This certification encompasses rigorous testing to verify that devices comply with safety regulations, electromagnetic compatibility, and network interoperability. Achieving certification is crucial for manufacturers and service providers, as it validates that their devices can operate seamlessly within existing networks and adhere to required performance and safety standards. Moreover, certified devices are more likely to gain trust from consumers and industry stakeholders, facilitating smoother market entry and reducing potential legal and operational issues.
IoT device management encompasses the processes and tools necessary to remotely monitor, maintain, and secure Internet of Things (IoT) devices throughout their lifecycle. This includes initial provisioning, configuration, software updates, and real-time diagnostics. Effective device management ensures that IoT deployments operate efficiently, remain secure against emerging threats, and can scale seamlessly as the number of connected devices grows. By implementing robust IoT device management practices, organizations can reduce operational costs, minimize downtime, and enhance the overall performance of their IoT ecosystems.
Device churn refers to the rate at which IoT devices become inactive or disconnect from a network over a specific period. High device churn can indicate issues such as device malfunctions, connectivity problems, or user dissatisfaction, leading to increased operational costs and potential revenue loss. Monitoring and managing device churn is essential for maintaining the reliability and efficiency of IoT deployments. Implementing robust device management practices, including regular diagnostics, firmware updates, and proactive maintenance, can help reduce device churn and enhance the longevity of IoT devices.
Digital transformation refers to the comprehensive integration of digital technologies into all areas of a business, fundamentally changing how organizations operate and deliver value to customers. In the manufacturing sector, this transformation involves adopting Internet of Things (IoT) solutions to enhance operational efficiency, enable predictive maintenance, and facilitate data-driven decision-making. By leveraging connected devices and real-time data analytics, manufacturers can optimize production processes, reduce downtime, and respond more swiftly to market demands, thereby gaining a competitive edge in the industry.
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An edge router is a network device that connects an internal network to external networks, such as the internet or a wide area network (WAN). Positioned at the edge of a network, it efficiently directs data traffic, ensures secure connectivity, and helps manage bandwidth for connected devices. In IoT and edge computing environments, edge routers play a key role in reducing latency and improving performance by enabling data processing closer to the source, rather than relying solely on cloud-based infrastructure.
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a SIM card integrated directly into a device's hardware, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card. This technology allows users to remotely activate and switch between carrier profiles without physically changing the SIM card. eSIMs are particularly beneficial for IoT devices, as they reduce space requirements and enhance durability by removing the need for a SIM card slot. Additionally, eSIMs support over-the-air updates, enabling seamless carrier changes and profile management, which simplifies logistics and improves flexibility for both consumers and businesses.
An eUICC (embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card) is a programmable SIM enabling remote management of multiple carrier profiles over-the-air. This technology allows devices to switch between network operators without the need to physically replace the SIM card, offering flexibility and scalability for global IoT deployments. The eUICC standard, defined by the GSMA, ensures secure provisioning and management of carrier profiles, facilitating seamless connectivity across different regions and network providers.
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5G is the fifth-generation technology standard for broadband cellular networks, succeeding 4G. While 4G accelerated data transmission, 5G enhances speed further and introduces ultra-low latency, widespread coverage, and high-speed connectivity. This advancement is pivotal for the Internet of Things (IoT), enabling seamless communication among a vast number of connected devices and supporting real-time data processing. Industries can leverage 5G to implement innovative solutions, such as smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and advanced healthcare systems, thereby driving efficiency and fostering new business opportunities.
Fixed wireless is a method of delivering high-speed internet connectivity to stationary locations, such as homes or businesses, using wireless communication technologies instead of traditional wired infrastructure. This approach involves transmitting data from a base station to a fixed receiver equipped with an antenna, providing broadband access without the need for physical cables. Fixed wireless is particularly advantageous in areas where laying cable is impractical or cost-prohibitive, offering a reliable and scalable alternative for broadband connectivity.
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An IoT gateway is a device that serves as a bridge between IoT devices and the cloud, facilitating communication and data processing. It connects various sensors, controllers, and smart devices to the internet, enabling them to transmit data for analysis and receive commands. Beyond simple data relay, IoT gateways often perform essential functions such as data filtering, protocol translation, and edge computing, which allows for real-time processing and reduces latency. By managing these tasks, IoT gateways enhance the efficiency and security of IoT ecosystems, ensuring seamless integration between devices and centralized systems.
A Global IoT SIM is a specialized SIM designed to provide seamless and reliable cellular connectivity for IoT devices across multiple countries and regions. Unlike traditional SIMs tied to a single network operator, Global IoT SIMs include solutions like global roaming SIMs, which leverage carrier agreements to enable cross-border connectivity; multi-IMSI SIMs, which store multiple network identities to navigate roaming restrictions; eUICC SIMs (programmable SIMs), which allow remote profile switching for greater flexibility; and multi-carrier SIM strategies, which use localized carrier SIMs to optimize performance and cost. This flexibility ensures that IoT devices maintain consistent and cost-effective connections, regardless of their geographic location, making them ideal for international deployments.
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An ICCID (Integrated Circuit Card Identifier) is a globally unique number assigned to a SIM card, used to identify and authenticate it within a cellular network. Typically 19 to 20 digits long, the ICCID contains key details such as the issuing network, country code, and a unique serial number. It is stored digitally on the SIM card and printed on its surface, making it essential for managing IoT deployments, activating SIM cards, and troubleshooting connectivity issues. Since each SIM has a distinct ICCID, it ensures seamless network identification and helps businesses track and manage large-scale IoT connectivity more efficiently.
An IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit number assigned to every mobile device with cellular capabilities, such as smartphones, tablets, and IoT devices. This identifier is used by network operators to recognize devices on their networks, enabling functions like device tracking, activation, and security measures. The IMEI is typically found within the device's settings menu or printed on the device itself, often beneath the battery or on the back casing. In the context of IoT, managing IMEI numbers is crucial for monitoring and maintaining large fleets of connected devices, ensuring each device is correctly identified and authenticated within the network.
An IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity) is a unique identifier assigned to every user of a cellular network. Stored on the SIM card, the IMSI comprises up to 15 digits: the initial digits represent the Mobile Country Code (MCC) and Mobile Network Code (MNC), identifying the country and mobile network operator, while the remaining digits constitute the Mobile Subscriber Identification Number (MSIN), unique to each subscriber. The IMSI is crucial for authenticating and authorizing devices on the network, ensuring accurate billing and secure access to services. In IoT applications, managing IMSIs efficiently is essential for overseeing large-scale deployments of connected devices across various regions and networks.
IoT billing refers to the process of charging for services associated with Internet of Things (IoT) solutions. This involves tracking and managing the usage of connected devices, data consumption, and associated services to generate accurate invoices for customers. Effective IoT billing systems must accommodate various business models, such as subscription-based services, pay-per-use, or outcome-based billing, while handling the complexities of device activations, deactivations, and diverse data usage patterns. Implementing a robust IoT billing solution ensures seamless revenue collection, enhances customer satisfaction, and supports the scalability of IoT deployments.
An IoT cloud is a specialized infrastructure that combines cloud computing capabilities with tools and services designed to support the unique requirements of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and applications. It enables the collection, storage, processing, and analysis of data generated by IoT devices, facilitating seamless communication between devices and centralized systems. By leveraging an IoT cloud, businesses can efficiently manage large-scale IoT deployments, perform real-time data analytics, and integrate IoT data into existing workflows to drive informed decision-making and operational efficiency.
IoT connectivity refers to the various technologies and infrastructures that enable physical devices to connect to the internet and communicate with each other. This connection allows IoT devices to collect, transmit, and receive data, facilitating seamless integration into broader networks and systems. Effective IoT connectivity is essential for real-time data exchange, remote monitoring, and control of devices across diverse applications, from smart homes to industrial automation.
An IoT platform is an integrated suite of tools and services designed to facilitate the development, deployment, and management of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions. It provides the necessary infrastructure to connect IoT devices, manage data flows, and ensure seamless communication between devices and applications. Key features of an IoT platform include device management, data analytics, connectivity management, and application enablement. By leveraging an IoT platform, businesses can accelerate time-to-market for their IoT products, reduce operational complexities, and scale their deployments efficiently.
An IoT service encompasses the solutions that enable the deployment, connectivity, management, and monetization of IoT devices. Beyond basic connectivity, these services include cellular data plans, remote device management, security protocols, and subscription-based billing that support IoT-as-a-Service (IoTaaS) models. By leveraging IoT services, businesses can streamline device onboarding, manage connectivity at scale, and generate recurring revenue through subscription-based offerings—without the complexities of handling carrier relationships, SIM provisioning, or billing infrastructure independently.
IoT software is a set of applications and tools that enable the management, communication, and automation of IoT devices within a connected ecosystem. It allows devices to collect, process, and exchange data efficiently while providing businesses with real-time insights and control. IoT software often includes device management, data analytics, and connectivity solutions, helping organizations streamline operations, enhance security, and scale their IoT deployments with ease.
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Latency refers to the time it takes for data to travel from its source to its destination across a network. In IoT applications, low latency is crucial for real-time data processing and responsiveness, ensuring that devices can communicate and react promptly. Factors influencing latency include the chosen connectivity technology, network congestion, and the physical distance between devices. For instance, 5G networks are designed to offer ultra-low latency, making them ideal for time-sensitive IoT applications.
Long-Term Evolution (LTE) is a wireless broadband standard commonly known as 4G LTE, offering high-speed, reliable data transmission for a wide range of applications, including IoT. Compared to Low-Power Wide-Area Networks (LPWAN), LTE provides greater bandwidth, making it ideal for data-intensive IoT solutions, while its broader coverage surpasses Wi-Fi, ensuring connectivity over longer distances. LTE variants, such as LTE-M, optimize power efficiency and coverage for IoT deployments, supporting use cases that require mobility, low latency, and extended battery life.
Learn More about LTE-M: IoT Use Cases and Differentiating Features
A Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) is a wireless communication technology designed to support large-scale IoT deployments that require long-range connectivity and minimal power consumption. LPWANs are ideal for applications where devices transmit small amounts of data infrequently, such as environmental monitoring, smart agriculture, and asset tracking. By operating over extended distances with low energy usage, LPWANs enable IoT devices to function efficiently in remote locations without the need for frequent battery replacements.
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An M2M SIM (Machine-to-Machine Subscriber Identity Module) is a specialized SIM card designed to facilitate direct communication between devices over cellular networks without human intervention. Unlike traditional SIM cards used in consumer mobile devices, M2M SIMs are built to withstand harsh environmental conditions and have extended lifespans, making them ideal for industrial applications. They support remote management and provisioning, allowing businesses to monitor and control large fleets of devices efficiently. M2M SIMs are commonly used in applications such as fleet management, industrial automation, and smart city infrastructure, where reliable and autonomous device-to-device communication is essential.
A Merchant of Record (MoR) is a legal entity responsible for selling goods or services to end customers. This role encompasses managing payment processing, ensuring compliance with tax regulations, and handling financial liabilities associated with each transaction. In the context of IoT, partnering with an MoR allows OEMs to focus on their core operations while the MoR manages complex billing, taxation, and compliance challenges across various markets.
IoT protocols and standards are the foundational communication frameworks that enable seamless interaction between devices, networks, and applications within the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem. These protocols define the rules and data formats for information exchange, ensuring interoperability and efficient data transmission across diverse devices and platforms. By adhering to established IoT standards, manufacturers and developers can create compatible and secure IoT solutions, facilitating scalability and integration in various applications.
Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) is a network architecture that moves computing power closer to where data is generated—at the edge of the network—rather than relying solely on centralized cloud servers. This reduces latency, improves real-time processing, and enhances application performance for time-sensitive IoT use cases like industrial automation, connected vehicles, and smart cities. By processing data locally, MEC enables faster decision-making, reduced bandwidth costs, and improved reliability, making it a critical component of next-generation IoT and 5G networks.
Multi-IMSI technology allows a single SIM card to store multiple International Mobile Subscriber Identities (IMSIs), enabling IoT devices to switch between network operators as needed. This can help navigate roaming restrictions and maintain connectivity across regions without requiring a physical SIM swap. However, multi-IMSI is not always the best option—switching IMSIs can introduce latency, impact connection stability, and may not be permitted by all carriers. While it offers flexibility for global IoT deployments, businesses should carefully evaluate whether multi-IMSI, eUICC, or a localized SIM approach better suits their specific needs for network reliability, compliance, and cost efficiency.
A Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) is a wireless service provider that delivers cellular connectivity to customers without owning the underlying network infrastructure. Instead, MVNOs enter into agreements with traditional Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to access their networks at wholesale rates. This arrangement allows MVNOs to offer competitive and specialized services, often targeting niche markets or providing unique value propositions. By leveraging existing networks, MVNOs can focus on customer service, innovative offerings, and flexible pricing models without the significant capital investment required to build and maintain network infrastructure.
Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR) is a metric that quantifies the predictable and recurring revenue a business generates each month from its subscription-based services or products. In the context of IoT solutions, MRR encompasses the income derived from ongoing customer subscriptions for services such as device connectivity, data analytics, and platform access. Monitoring MRR is crucial for businesses to assess financial health, forecast growth, and make informed strategic decisions. By focusing on increasing MRR, companies can enhance customer retention, optimize pricing strategies, and ensure a steady revenue stream to support continuous innovation and operational scalability.
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Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) is a low-power, wide-area network (LPWAN) technology developed to enhance the coverage and efficiency of IoT devices. Operating within a narrow bandwidth of 200 kHz, NB-IoT offers extended range and deep indoor penetration, making it ideal for applications like smart metering, environmental monitoring, and asset tracking. By utilizing existing cellular infrastructure, NB-IoT ensures reliable connectivity while minimizing power consumption, enabling devices to maintain prolonged battery life. Its standardized approach facilitates seamless integration and scalability across diverse IoT deployments.
A native carrier refers to a local mobile network operator (MNO) that provides direct connectivity to devices rather than relying on roaming agreements. When an IoT device connects via a native carrier profile, it operates as a local subscriber, reducing latency, improving reliability, and ensuring compliance with regional regulations that may restrict permanent roaming. eSIM technology enables devices to download and activate native carrier profiles in different regions, offering businesses more predictable costs, enhanced performance, and the flexibility to switch networks as needed to maintain optimal connectivity.
Network redundancy refers to the practice of implementing alternative communication pathways within a network to ensure continuous data flow in case the primary path fails. This involves incorporating backup hardware components, such as additional routers, switches, or duplicate network links, to create multiple pathways for data transmission. In the context of IoT, network redundancy is critical, as it guarantees uninterrupted connectivity for devices, ensuring consistent data collection and operational reliability even during unexpected outages or hardware failures.
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An overage charge is an additional fee incurred when a customer's usage exceeds the limits of their subscribed data plan. In IoT solutions, this typically occurs when devices consume more data than allocated, leading to unexpected expenses. To mitigate overage charges, it's essential to monitor data usage closely and consider flexible data plans or automated top-up options that align with your devices' consumption patterns.
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A payment portal (sometimes referred to as a Hosted Payment Page) is a secure, web-based platform that enables businesses to manage financial transactions with their customers efficiently. It allows customers to select subscription plans, make payments, and manage their accounts seamlessly. For businesses, a payment portal streamlines the billing process, integrates with existing systems, and provides a user-friendly interface to enhance the customer experience. Implementing a payment portal can lead to improved revenue collection, reduced administrative overhead, and increased customer satisfaction.
Platform as a Service (PaaS) is a cloud computing model that provides developers with a comprehensive environment to build, deploy, and manage applications without the complexity of maintaining the underlying infrastructure. By offering a suite of development tools, middleware, and database management systems, PaaS enables businesses to streamline application development, reduce time-to-market, and focus on innovation. This approach is particularly beneficial for IoT solutions, as it allows for seamless integration of devices, efficient data management, and scalable deployment, all while ensuring robust security and compliance.
A private network is a dedicated communication infrastructure established exclusively for a specific organization or user group, ensuring enhanced control, security, and performance. Unlike public networks, private networks restrict access to authorized users and devices, as a means of safeguarding sensitive data and reducing exposure to external threats. In the context of cellular technology, private networks can be implemented using Private LTE or 5G systems, providing organizations with tailored connectivity solutions that meet their unique requirements. These networks offer benefits such as improved data privacy, optimized network performance, and the flexibility to customize network parameters to align with specific operational needs
PTCRB certification is a process established by the PCS Type Certification Review Board to ensure that cellular devices comply with North American network standards. Achieving PTCRB certification involves rigorous testing based on international standards like 3GPP, verifying that devices meet technical requirements for interoperability on technologies such as 5G, 4G LTE, NB-IoT, and Cat-M1. This certification is essential for manufacturers aiming to market their cellular devices in North America, as it guarantees seamless integration and reliable performance across various networks.
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Postpaid refers to a billing model where customers use services, such as cellular connectivity, and are billed afterward based on their usage. In this arrangement, users typically sign a contract with a service provider, agreeing to pay for the services at the end of a billing cycle, usually monthly. This model offers the advantage of uninterrupted service without the need for frequent recharges, making it convenient for users with consistent usage patterns. However, it's essential to monitor usage to avoid unexpected overage charges, especially in IoT deployments where data consumption can vary. Implementing tools to track data usage and opting for plans that align with your consumption needs can help manage costs effectively.
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Recurring billing is a payment model where IoT businesses automatically charge customers at regular intervals—such as monthly or annually—for ongoing services like device connectivity, data plans, or platform access. This approach ensures predictable revenue while simplifying the billing process for large-scale IoT deployments. By automating invoicing and payment collection, recurring billing reduces administrative overhead, improves cash flow, and enhances customer retention. For IoT service providers, a well-managed recurring billing system enables flexible pricing models, seamless plan adjustments, and scalable monetization of connected devices.
Learn More about Automated Billing and 8 Benefits for Cellular IoT Devices
Remote SIM Provisioning is the process and ability to perform Subscription Management during which a Profile is securely downloaded to an eUICC SIM. An RSP Platform is the software that is responsible for switching carrier connectivity profiles in the context of an eSIM (eUICC).
A roaming connection enables a mobile device to maintain network connectivity when operating outside its home network's coverage area by accessing a visited network. In the context of IoT, roaming connections are vital for devices that require uninterrupted operation across various regions and networks. However, relying on roaming, especially permanent roaming, can introduce challenges such as increased costs, regulatory compliance issues, and potential connectivity disruptions. To mitigate these risks, IoT solution providers often explore alternatives like localizing connectivity through regional carriers or implementing multi-IMSI SIMs to ensure reliable and cost-effective global operations.
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SGP.31/.32 is the name of eSIM standards introduced in 2023 by the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA), a non-profit organization representing mobile network operators. This is the latest in a series of evolving eSIM standards that outline how eUICC SIM technology should operate. The SGP.32 standard uses SM-DP+ architecture to facilitate the downloading of carrier connectivity profiles to a SIM.
SIM card form factors refer to the different physical sizes of SIM cards used in mobile and IoT devices. They range from the Standard SIM (1FF) to the compact Nano-SIM (4FF) and eSIM (MFF2), which is embedded directly into a device. Smaller form factors, like Nano-SIMs and eSIMs, are ideal for modern, space-constrained devices, while Mini-SIMs and Micro-SIMs are used in larger equipment. Choosing the right form factor ensures optimal device performance, durability, and connectivity in IoT deployments.
Subscription billing is a payment model where customers are charged at regular intervals—such as monthly or annually—for continuous access to a product or service. In the IoT industry, this model is particularly advantageous, enabling businesses to monetize services like device connectivity, data analytics, and platform access on an ongoing basis. Implementing an effective subscription billing system allows companies to automate invoicing, manage customer subscriptions efficiently, and adapt to varying usage patterns, thereby ensuring a steady revenue stream and enhancing customer satisfaction.
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In the context of IoT data plans, top-ups refer to the process of purchasing additional data to supplement an existing plan when the initial data allocation has been exhausted before the end of the billing cycle. This approach allows IoT devices to maintain uninterrupted connectivity without upgrading to a higher-tier plan. Top-ups offer flexibility and cost-efficiency, enabling businesses to manage variable data usage effectively and avoid unexpected overage charges.
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Usage-based pricing, also known as consumption-based pricing, is a billing model where customers are charged based on the actual amount of a service or resource they use. In the IoT industry, this approach means billing customers according to their devices' data consumption during a specific period. This model offers flexibility, allowing businesses to align costs directly with usage, which can be particularly advantageous for applications with variable or unpredictable data needs. However, implementing usage-based pricing requires a sophisticated billing platform capable of accurately tracking and managing individual device usage to ensure precise invoicing and customer satisfaction.
Learn More about Consumption-Based Pricing and Is It Right for Your IoT Solution?
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A Virtual Private Network (VPN) in the context of the Internet of Things (IoT) is a secure communication tunnel that encrypts data transmitted between IoT devices and central systems over the internet. This encryption ensures that sensitive information remains protected from unauthorized access and cyber threats. Implementing VPNs in IoT infrastructures is crucial for maintaining data integrity, preventing interception, and safeguarding the overall network from potential vulnerabilities. By establishing a VPN, organizations can ensure that their IoT devices operate within a secure and private network environment, even when utilizing public internet connections.
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Webhooks are lightweight, event-driven communications that allow applications to automatically send real-time data to other systems via HTTP requests. Unlike traditional APIs, which require continuous polling for updates, webhooks operate on a one-way, event-triggered basis, instantly notifying other applications when a specific event occurs. In IoT and automation environments, webhooks are essential for seamless data exchange, workflow automation, and triggering IT actions, enabling efficient and responsive system integrations.
Wireless failover is a backup connectivity solution that automatically switches to a wireless network, such as cellular data, when a primary wired internet connection experiences disruptions or failures. This seamless transition ensures uninterrupted internet access, maintaining business operations and critical services without downtime. Implementing wireless failover is essential for organizations that rely heavily on consistent connectivity, as it safeguards against potential revenue losses and operational challenges associated with network outages.