Author: rossm

An IP address serves as a unique identifier for devices accessing the internet. 

Most IoT devices use dynamic IP addresses, which change with each connection. However, fixed (or static) IP addresses remain constant. Devices with fixed IP SIM cards always use the same address when connecting to a network. 

 In IoT connectivity, a solution may require a Static IP address which could offer advantages related to continuous connectivity, remote access and integration with other systems; however this is not always a requirement.  

There are also elements to take into consideration with Static IP SIM cards such as security and additional latency. 

There are different types of Fixed IP SIM cards 

1. Fixed public IP SIM card 

• Hosted in the public domain, accessible over the internet. 

• Ideal for enabling access to connected devices from other endpoints. 

• Example: CCTV systems where users view real-time camera footage remotely. 

1. Fixed private IP SIM card 

• Visible only within your enterprise network. 

• Secure option for device-to-device communication within a private network. 

• Consider supplementing with a secure VPN for remote access over the public internet. 

 Common applications for fixed IP SIM cards include retail where reliable communication is required for automated point-of-sale (POS) systems and security monitoring where wireless CCTV solutions benefit from fixed IP SIMs. 

 Fixed IP SIM cards play a vital role in the connected world. However, it is important to consider whether the static IP is a requirement for the solution to function or a nice-to-have, as the world has run out of IPv4 IP addresses 

 (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IPv4_address_exhaustion), and most devices / networks do not have the capability to support IPv6 IP addresses yet. As a result of this, a static IP may often be expensive to supply for an IoT solution. 

This article was written by our team of IoT experts here at Fidelity Group. We support a wide range of business sectors with our outstanding IoT solution, which includes our market-leading software management platform, vM2M. If you would like to speak to one of our experts to find out how we can help your business, please Click here or call us today on 0800 840 6800.

In IoT Connectivity, SIM Cards often roam across networks in other countries giving them the ability to connect to more than one single network. The key advantage to connecting in this way is that there are often multiple networks available, via roaming partners, depending on the way the SIM is configured. Switching between networks often requires no intervention from an end user (which is optimal for IoT Connectivity). This brings about a few more ways in which SIM cards work.

Multi network vs single network SIM cards A single network SIM card is often provided by a local network operator and has access to that specific network, like a Vodafone SIM in the UK that connects to the Vodafone network. This SIM may be able to roam on different networks in other countries where Vodafone is not available (provided your tariff allows and roaming agreements are in place with the networks).

Almost all traditional mobile SIM cards are single network SIM cards, but some IoT SIM cards could be single network SIM cards too such as a Telefonica (O2) SIM from Spain that is being used in the UK but only has access to the O2 Network, even though Telefonica have roaming agreements in place with other UK networks. The communication plan (the agreed network & technology parameters on which the SIM card operates) allows the SIM to only connect to the O2 network, making the SIM more cost effective and thus a single network SIM card.

With multi network SIM cards, SIMs will have access to more than one network in the country it is being used in. In IoT connectivity, most SIM cards have a fixed originating country but roam on other networks unlike standard consumer mobile SIM cards that typically have one single fixed network.

Let us imagine a European SIM provider which has access to the local European network as well as multiple roaming options in other parts of the world. This SIM can be used in the UK and has access to the O2, Vodafone, 3 (Hutchinson) and EE as the network will have roaming agreements in place for all UK networks. The total area covered by all mobile networks is much larger than that of any single network. The networks above could be Vodafone, EE, O2 and 3, for example, when using a multi network SIM in the UK. 

 It is important to remember that a SIM can only ever be connected to one network at time even though the SIM has access to multiple available networks. 

 The SIM manufacturer or the SIM form factor do not determine if it is a Single Network or multi network SIM card, a SIMs communication plan (or Tariff) determines if the SIM is multi network or single network Steered vs unsteered roaming SIM cards

When using multi network SIM Cards, there are two types of roaming that suppliers can configure, steered roaming or unsteered roaming. Unsteered SIMs offer connectivity to any network with a signal.  

If there are two or more networks in range, then they will connect to either network (depending on the parameters set on the IoT device).  

 The SIM will often remain connected to the network it initially connects to unless: 

•  either the device is rebooted to initiate a re-scan of available networks 

• the device is prompted to initiate a re-scan of available networks 

• the current network is lost, and the device initiates a rescan of available networks. 

An unsteered SIM card will have no network preference. If the device that the SIM is inserted in has no intelligence to run a network scan or any rules configured, it will select the first network it detects as its home network, regardless of signal strength and network technologies. This article was written by our team of IoT experts here at Fidelity Group. We support a wide range of business sectors with our outstanding IoT solution, which includes our market-leading software management platform, vM2M. If you would like to speak to one of our experts to find out how we can help your business, please Click here or call us today on 0800 840 6800.

APN stands for Access Point Name. It serves as a configuration setting on mobile devices, connecting them to a carrier’s cellular network. An APN plays a crucial role in enabling internet access and multimedia messaging services, ensuring that data is transmitted accurately. Structure of an APN An APN consists of two essential components: 

• Network Identifier: This specifies the external network to which the Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN) is connected. Optionally, it may also include the service requested by the user. 
• Operator Identifier: This identifies the specific operator’s packet domain network where the GGSN is located. It includes the mobile country code (MCC) and mobile network code (MNC), which uniquely identify a mobile network operator.  

Examples of APNs 

• three.co.uk (operator-specific domain) 
• internet.t-mobile 
• internet.mnc012.mcc345.gprs 
• rcomnet.mnc015.mcc405.gprs 

Types of APNs 

• Public APN: Connects mobile or IoT devices to the public internet. Each time a device establishes a connection, the MNO/MVNO assigns it the next available IP address from a pool. 
• Public APN with a Public Static IP: Like a standard APN but assigns a fixed IP address to the device for consistent connections.

Difference Between APNs and VPNs APN (Gateway)

• Establishes wireless connections. 
• Configures connectivity paths based on business requirements. 
• Allows IoT devices to connect to enterprise networks without accessing the public internet.

VPN (Tunnel)

• Provides a secure data transfer channel across public or private networks. 
• Encrypts data packets, making interception indecipherable.

Benefits of APNs

• Greater flexibility for businesses to configure connectivity methods. 
• Private APNs keep data confined to private networks while applying security and usage policies. 

 Summary 

APNs are essential for reliable connectivity, whether you’re connecting to the public internet or creating secure channels within enterprise networks. This article was written by our team of IoT experts here at Fidelity Group. We support a wide range of business sectors with our outstanding IoT solution, which includes our market-leading software management platform, vM2M. If you would like to speak to one of our experts to find out how we can help your business, please Click here or call us today on 0800 840 6800. APN stands for Access Point Name. It serves as a configuration setting on mobile devices, connecting them to a carrier’s cellular network. An APN plays a crucial role in enabling internet access and multimedia messaging services, ensuring that data is transmitted accurately. 

Structure of an APN 

An APN consists of two essential components: 

• Network Identifier: This specifies the external network to which the Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN) is connected. Optionally, it may also include the service requested by the user. 
• Operator Identifier: This identifies the specific operator’s packet domain network where the GGSN is located. It includes the mobile country code (MCC) and mobile network code (MNC), which uniquely identify a mobile network operator.  

Examples of APNs 

• three.co.uk (operator-specific domain) 
• internet.t-mobile 
• internet.mnc012.mcc345.gprs 
• rcomnet.mnc015.mcc405.gprs 

Types of APNs 

• Public APN: Connects mobile or IoT devices to the public internet. Each time a device establishes a connection, the MNO/MVNO assigns it the next available IP address from a pool. 
• Public APN with a Public Static IP: Like a standard APN but assigns a fixed IP address to the device for consistent connections.

 

Difference Between APNs and VPNs

APN (Gateway)

• Establishes wireless connections. 
• Configures connectivity paths based on business requirements. 
• Allows IoT devices to connect to enterprise networks without accessing the public internet. 

VPN (Tunnel)

• Provides a secure data transfer channel across public or private networks. 
• Encrypts data packets, making interception indecipherable.

Benefits of APNs

• Greater flexibility for businesses to configure connectivity methods. 
• Private APNs keep data confined to private networks while applying security and usage policies. 

 Summary 

APNs are essential for reliable connectivity, whether you’re connecting to the public internet or creating secure channels within enterprise networks. 

This article was written by our team of IoT experts here at Fidelity Group. We support a wide range of business sectors with our outstanding IoT solution, which includes our market-leading software management platform, vM2M. If you would like to speak to one of our experts to find out how we can help your business, please Click here or call us today on 0800 840 6800.

You may have heard the terms IoT and M2M and these may seem, at first glance, to represent the same type of connectivity but there are some key differences. In this article we look at the differences and look at the typical types of applications for each type of connectivity.

Before we explore what differentiates these terms, let’s look at each of these terms in a little more detail.

Internet of Things (IoT)

This type of connectivity represents an ecosystem of devices, often referred to as ‘things’, which communicate with each other using the internet. These devices utilise sensors, actuators, and connectivity technology to exchange data seamlessly. IoT enables central control, data analytics, and informed decision-making across a wide range of domains.

Examples of IoT applications include smart home devices (like thermostats and doorbells), industrial sensors, EV chargers and connected vehicles.

Machine to Machine (M2M)

This type of connectivity refers to direct communication between two or more machines. Unlike IoT, M2M doesn’t rely on internet connectivity; instead, it uses wired or wireless mechanisms.

M2M applications include security systems, tracking devices, manufacturing processes and facility management. Think of cash machines communicating with host processors to process transactions—this is a classic M2M example.

Key differences between IoT and M2M

Scope

IoT has a broader scope, connecting countless devices across various domains.
M2M has a more limited scope, focusing on specific applications.

Internet dependency

IoT devices rely on internet connectivity for data exchange.
M2M devices communicate directly without internet connectivity.

Communication protocol

IoT uses internet protocols (HTTP, FTP, etc.).
M2M relies on traditional communication technologies.

Data sharing

IoT shares data across applications for user experience improvement.
M2M shares data only between communicating parties.

Business type

IoT serves both B2B (business-to-business) and B2C (business-to-consumer) sectors.
M2M primarily focuses on B2B applications.

API support

IoT supports open APIs for integrations.
M2M lacks open API support.

Centric approach

IoT emphasises information and service-centric approaches.
M2M is more communication and device centric.

Scalability 

IoT is highly scalable due to IP-based networks.
M2M scalability is more limited.

Computer systems

IoT involves both hardware and software.
M2M is predominantly hardware-based.

Summary

While IoT and M2M share similarities, they serve different purposes. IoT leverages internet connectivity for widespread data exchange, while M2M focuses on direct communication between machines. Both play critical roles in our connected world, shaping the future of technology and business.

Here at Fidelity Group we are experts in IoT technology and management, offering our clients both national and global connectivity solutions but also access to our leading management platform, vM2M.

VM2M is the only platform with 24/7 online quoting, ordering and management.

To talk to one of our experts today and find more out about our leading solutions please go to our Contact Us page.

Or to get started with IoT why not take advantage of our FREE IoT Starter Pack?

Mobile network operators worldwide are taking significant steps toward the sunsetting of 2G & 3G networks Most 3G services are being retired already in the UK as part of network modernisation. While 3G networks are being phased out sooner, 2G networks will continue to operate in many countries, especially in Europe, for some time. This transition, often referred to as ‘sunsetting’, has implications for IoT applications. Owners of IoT solutions that use 3G or 2G must consider decommissioning their devices, SIM swaps, upgrades or device replacements.

A noteworthy example of sunsetting the 3G network is Vodafone in the UK. By 2023, less than 4%, of the data transmitted on the Vodafone network relied on 3G technology, a significant reduction from the over 30% recorded in 2016. They said:

“Every UK mobile network has committed to switching off their 3G network. At Vodafone, we’ve already switched off our 3G network in several locations across the UK and our final phase took place in January 2024.” (Source)

Network technologies

To better understand the sunsetting of these networks, let us explore the network technology timeline and where 2G and 3G fit into this.

Network sunsetting

Mobile network operators globally are either shutting down 3G services or planning to do so soon. Some individual operators may sunset their networks earlier than others, particularly their 3G networks.

The goal of sunsetting older networks is to free up spectrum for 5G and beyond, unlocking exciting possibilities for everyday life and business.

For devices still dependent on 3G and incapable of transitioning to 4G or 5G, there is a fallback to 2G technology. However, given the yet-to-be-announced switch-off dates for 2G technology across each network, an eventuality expected in the coming years, this would just be a short-term solution.

Impact on IoT deployments

There are several factors affecting IoT deployments including the cellular module used in the device, the SIM type, the connectivity configuration and alternative bearer services.

It is crucial to assess the impact of specific network sunsets in each country of use on your IoT deployments and plan actions to ensure there is no loss of service on these devices.

Future IoT products will rely on 4G, 5G, and Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) technologies for seamless connectivity throughout their lifecycle.

Summary

In summary, with the sunsetting 2G and 3G networks the industry is poised for a technological revolution, paving the way for more advanced communication networks and innovative applications. It will be the responsibility of each device owner to ensure they are ready for these advancements.

This article was written by our team of IoT experts here at Fidelity Group. We support a wide range of business sectors with our outstanding IoT solution, which includes our market-leading software management platform, vM2M. If you would like to speak to one of our experts to find out how we can help your business, please Click here or call us today, FREE, on 0800 840 6800.

* 2G is the second generation of mobile communications, focused primarily on calling (Voice). GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) on the 2G network made it possible to also send data packages, however, only one communication technique can be used at a time (using Voice and Data simultaneously is not possible) on this network.

** 3G is the third generation of mobile communications and the successor to the 2G network, this generation of mobile network was still focused on calling, but also offered a faster data connection. 3G was launched in 2001, almost 10 years after 2G.

In the realm of the Internet of Things (IoT), data usage is often predictable as devices will perform the same functions and send the same amounts of data every month. However, there are some cases where data is not predictable and this is where data pooling is beneficial.

Here’s how it works:

1. Shared Data Allowance: Instead of paying separately for each device’s data usage, data pooling enables a collective data allowance for all connected devices. This shared ‘pool’ of data can be used by any device within the group.
2. Flexibility and Cost Savings: Data pooling provides flexibility and cost savings. For example, if you have ten IoT devices assigned to a 1 GB data plan, they can collectively draw from a total pool of 10 GB. This means that one device may only use 500MB whilst another can use 1.5GB without incurring any additional usage.
3. Mitigating underutilised data: Data pooling assumes that usage patterns across devices will average out. While some devices may consume more data, others may use less. By sharing the data pool, you mitigate the risk of wasting unused data in devices with lower usage.
   

   IoT Data Pooling Options

• Aggregated Data Pool: Aggregated Pools are where individual SIM allowances are pooled together to create a variable pool of data for all contributing SIMs to consume from. The size of Aggregated Pools adjusts each time a data SIM is added or removed. This is a common choice for when you are unsure about data usage as you can scale these pools up or down each month.
• Fixed Data Pool: With a Fixed Data pool, you can purchase a large amount of data per month and then have SIMs consume from this data allowance. This is a common choice for when you are sure about the data usage across SIMs. These pools are not as scalable as Aggregated Data Pools.

Benefits of IoT Data Pooling

• Cost Efficiency: Data pooling allows you to optimise data plans based on the overall needs of your IoT deployment. Rather than overprovisioning data for individual devices, you allocate resources more effectively.
• Simplified Management: Managing a single data pool is simpler than tracking individual data limits for each device. It streamlines billing, alerting, monitoring, and reporting.
• Scalability: As your IoT (estate?) grows, data pooling scales seamlessly. You can add new devices without reconfiguring individual data plans.

Considerations

• Overages: While data pooling helps prevent overage charges, it’s also essential to monitor usage. Unexpected spikes in data consumption can still occur.
• Data Allocations: It is worth noting the amount of data that each SIM is allocated before adding these SIMs into a pool. For example, a SIM with 1GB of data that was purchased on the 15th day of the month, may have pro-rata data so actually only contributes half of the full allowance to the pool.
• Pooling Compatibility: When creating a data pool, ensure you can pool your entire SIM estate, if required. You may not be able to pool gGlobal SIMs with local SIMs due to the difference in pricing for the data. Data pools often carry a fixed rental charge based on the coverage zone which is why you are not able to pool different SIMs from different zones.
• Choosing the Right Plan: When selecting an IoT data plan, consider the total data needs of your devices. Select a plan that aligns with your usage patterns and allows for data pooling.

By pooling IoT data, you can strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and operational effectiveness.

vM2M and Data Pooling

At Fidelity Group, our revolutionary IoT platform, vM2M, allows you to create and administer your own data pools to manage your IoT Connectivity efficiently. Here’s how:

• Create Data Pools: Build your own data pools on the vM2M platform. The options are endless with no limitations as to how many data pools you are allowed to create.
• Pool SIMs with Different Data Allocations: vM2M allows the flexibility of aggregating a 10MB SIM with 1TB SIM if required. The only limitation is the SIM supplier and Coverage zone that the standalone SIM was purchased on.
• Top Up Data Pools: Seamlessly add additional data to your pool by selecting the amount of data and accepting the associated cost. vM2M will adjust the pool and update to the new usage limits. All previous rules and alerts will be updated accordingly too for the month. Once a new month begins, all usages will be reset.

Data pooling is a powerful tool for managing IoT Connectivity and if it is used in the correct way this will enable IoT SIM estates to scale with ease.

To talk to one of our experts today and find more out about how our vM2M IoT management platform prevents bill shock, please go to our Contact Us page.

To get started with IoT why not take advantage of our FREE IoT Starter Pack?

The Internet of Things (IoT) has driven a global surge in connectivity but with this has come one significant danger to managers of IoT estates which has come to be known as ‘Bill shock’.  This term refers to the unexpected and often substantial charges that can arise from IoT connectivity. Let us delve into the causes, impact, and preventive measures for bill shock in IoT.

What is Bill Shock?

Bill shock occurs when customers receive a bill that is much higher than anticipated. In IoT, this is often due to data overages. The complexity and scale of IoT deployments make managing and predicting costs challenging, leading to unexpected expenses and …. bill shock.

Causes of Bill Shock in IoT

• Data Overages: Many IoT devices rely on cellular networks to transmit data. These devices often come with data plans that have limits. If the data usage exceeds these limits, overage charges can accrue rapidly. For example, a smart agricultural sensor transmitting large amounts of data due to increased activity can result in significant extra costs.
• Misconfigured Devices: IoT devices sometimes malfunction or are misconfigured, resulting in unintended and excess data transmission. For example, a malfunctioning smart meter may send excessive readings, consuming more data than expected and incurring additional costs.
• Hidden Fees: Some connectivity providers may include hidden fees in their billing. These could be related to network access, maintenance or service charges that were not clearly communicated at the outset.
• Scalability Issues: As IoT deployments scale, keeping track of every device and its data usage becomes increasingly difficult. This complexity can lead to underestimating total consumption and consequently, higher bills.
• Unexpected Usage: As IoT deployments scale, keeping track of every device and its data usage becomes a challenge. If a firmware update is rolled out across a group of devices, this could generate unexpected usage and ultimately bill shock if the correct measures are not in place to control or prevent this.
• Poor Management Tools: Being unable to manage your SIM estate effectively means that you could be unaware of potential data overage occurring within your SIM estate until you receive a bill for these charges.
  
  
  
  

  The Impact of Bill Shock

  
  

The consequences of bill shock in IoT can be profound, affecting both individuals and businesses:

• Financial Strain: Sudden, unexpected costs can strain budgets, particularly for small businesses or start-ups operating with limited financial resources.
• Operational disruptions: To manage costs, businesses might need to suspend or limit the functionality of IoT devices, disrupting operations and affecting productivity.
• Customer dissatisfaction: For consumer-facing IoT products, unexpected costs passed onto customers can lead to dissatisfaction, complaints, and loss of trust.
• Hesitation to adopt IoT: Fear of bill shock can deter organisations from adopting IoT technologies, hindering innovation and progress.

Preventing Bill Shock

Fortunately, there are several strategies to mitigate the risk of bill shock in IoT connectivity:

• Transparent Billing: Choose connectivity providers that offer clear, transparent billing practices. Understand all potential fees and charges before committing to a service.
• Data Management Tools: Utilise data management platforms that provide real-time monitoring and alerts for data usage. These tools can help track consumption and prevent overages.
• Flexible Data Plans: Opt for flexible data plans that can adapt to varying usage patterns. Some providers offer data pooling or shared data plans that can accommodate multiple devices under a single contract.
• Regular Audits: Conduct regular audits of your IoT deployments to ensure devices are functioning correctly and not consuming excessive data. Identifying and addressing issues early can prevent unexpected costs.
• Cost Management Policies: Implement policies and practices for cost management, such as setting usage alerts and controls, restricting data-intensive activities, or automating certain functions to optimise data use.
  
  
  
  

  Conclusion

  
  

Bill shock in IoT is a significant challenge that can impact the financial health and operational efficiency of businesses. By understanding the causes and implementing preventive measures, it is possible to manage IoT connectivity costs effectively. As IoT continues to expand and integrate into various aspects of our lives, proactive cost management will be essential to harness its full potential without the risk of unexpected financial burdens. Embrace IoT with confidence by staying informed and prepared, ensuring that the benefits far outweigh the costs.

To talk to one of our experts today and find more out about how our vM2M IoT management platform prevents bill shock, please go to our Contact Us page.

To get started with IoT why not take advantage of our FREE IoT Starter Pack?