Glossary

2G (Second Generation)

A cellular network standard, offering basic voice and text services. Though largely phased out, 2G is still used in some IoT applications due to its low power consumption.

3G (Third Generation) 

An upgrade from 2G, offering faster data speeds for mobile internet, voice, and video services. 3G networks are being phased out but are still used in legacy IoT devices.

4G (Fourth Generation)

A widely adopted cellular technology that provides high-speed mobile broadband for IoT devices. Offers faster data speeds and lower latency than 3G, supporting applications requiring real-time data transmission.

5G (Fifth Generation)

The latest generation of cellular networks, designed to deliver ultra-fast speeds, low latency, and massive device connectivity. 5G is expected to revolutionise IoT by enabling applications like autonomous vehicles and smart cities.

APN (Access Point Name)

The gateway between a cellular network and the internet. IoT devices use APNs to establish network connections and access data services.

Cat-M1 (LTE-M)

A type of Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) technology specifically designed for IoT applications, operating on 4G LTE networks. It offers long battery life, lower power consumption, and extended coverage for IoT devices.

eSIM (Embedded SIM) 

A programmable SIM card that allows IoT devices to switch between cellular networks remotely without needing a physical SIM card change, enabling more flexible connectivity options.

FOTA (Firmware Over-the-Air)

A technology that allows for the remote update of firmware on IoT devices via cellular networks, improving security and functionality without physical intervention.

HLR (Home Location Register)  

A central database used by MNOs to store details about each subscriber, including phone numbers, SIM information, and services. It is essential for managing connectivity and roaming for IoT devices.

IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity)

A unique identifier assigned to every mobile device in a cellular network. It is stored in the SIM card and used to authenticate and track a device’s connectivity on the network.

IoT (Internet of Things)

A system of interconnected devices that communicate with each other over the internet or other networks, often through cellular connectivity for remote and real-time operations.

IP Address (Internet Protocol Address)  

A numerical label assigned to each device connected to a network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. In IoT, devices often require IP addresses to exchange data.

LPWA (Low Power Wide Area)

A category of wireless technologies designed for IoT applications that need low power consumption and extended range. LPWA technologies include LTE-M, NB-IoT, and Sigfox.

LTE (Long Term Evolution)  

A 4G cellular network technology that provides high-speed data services. It’s widely used in IoT applications due to its broad coverage and reliability.

LTE-M (Long Term Evolution for Machines)

A version of LTE optimised for machine-to-machine (M2M) communication and IoT devices. It offers lower power consumption and extended coverage, ideal for IoT deployments.

M2M (Machine-to-Machine) 

Refers to direct communication between devices over a network without human intervention. M2M is a foundational technology for IoT, allowing devices to send and receive data autonomously.

MCC (Mobile Country Code) 

A part of the IMSI that identifies the country in which a cellular device is registered. Used for routing data and managing international connectivity in IoT devices.

MNC (Mobile Network Code)  

A part of the IMSI that identifies the specific mobile network within a country. It helps in managing device connectivity and roaming across different networks.

MNO (Mobile Network Operator)

A company that owns and operates cellular networks, providing connectivity services directly to consumers and businesses, including IoT connectivity solutions.

MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator)  

A company that offers cellular services by leasing network capacity from an MNO. MVNOs often provide more specialised or niche services for IoT deployments.

NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT)

A low-power wide-area technology designed for IoT applications requiring minimal data transmission. NB-IoT operates on existing LTE networks and is ideal for devices with long battery life and infrequent data needs.

OTA (Over-the-Air) 

A method of updating or configuring devices remotely using a cellular network, crucial for IoT devices to receive updates without manual intervention.

PDP Context (Packet Data Protocol Context)  

A logical data connection between an IoT device and a network. It allows the device to send and receive data via the cellular network.

Private APN (Private Access Point Name) 

An APN that allows IoT devices to connect to a private network instead of the public internet, offering enhanced security and control for sensitive IoT deployments.

QoS (Quality of Service)

A network feature that prioritises certain types of data traffic over others, ensuring that critical IoT applications, such as emergency systems, have guaranteed performance and low latency.

Roaming 

The ability of an IoT device to remain connected to a cellular network outside its home country or the network it is registered with. Roaming is critical for global IoT deployments.

SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) 

A small card inserted into IoT devices that contains unique identification information used to authenticate devices on a cellular network.

SIM Swap 

A process where a new SIM card is issued for an IoT device, typically used when switching network operators or upgrading technology. Can also refer to a security risk when a SIM is swapped maliciously.

SMS (Short Message Service) 

A text messaging service used in IoT devices for basic data transmission, like alerts and status updates. Although limited in capacity, SMS remains an important tool for IoT communication in some use cases.

TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol)

A suite of communication protocols used to connect network devices, including IoT devices, over the internet. It is the foundation for how data is transmitted in IoT systems.

UE (User Equipment)  

Refers to the hardware, such as sensors or gateways, that connects to a cellular network for IoT applications.

VPN (Virtual Private Network) 

A secure network connection used to protect IoT data transmitted over cellular networks by encrypting communication and ensuring privacy.