Although various industries are being revolutionized by the Internet of Things (IoT), implementing it can be challenging. You may have heard about the use of LoRa technologies in IoT deployments, such as the use of LoRaWAN gateways. But these deployments may face obstacles such as excessive costs, unreliable communication, and performance issues, which is where LoRaWAN comes to help.
By offering a reliable and efficient solution, LoRaWAN aims at addressing the issues with implementation. In this article, let's uncover what LoRaWAN is and how it works as a key IoT driver.
What is LoRaWAN?
The low-power wide-area network (LPWAN) protocol known as LoRaWAN, developed by Semtech, is notable for its long-range transmission capabilities and remarkable energy efficiency.
Based on military and space-grade technology, its resistance to interference guarantees dependable connection.
Interestingly, in 2017, a LoRaWAN packet broke the previous record by transmitting 702 kilometers. For a variety of Internet of Things (IoT) applications, LoRaWAN is an appealing option because of these characteristics.
A non-profit organization made up of recognized device makers, service providers, and government agencies, the LoRa Alliance is responsible for overseeing LoRaWAN.
How does LoRaWAN Work?
In contrast to conventional mesh networks such as Zigbee, LoRaWAN has a special "star" topology. Nodes may connect directly with numerous gateways with LoRaWAN, whereas mesh networks depend on end-nodes relaying information to gateways and each other, which increases range but adds complexity. By doing this, nodes can stop listening for messages all the time, greatly extending battery life.
The central network server handles responsibilities like data deduplication, integrity checks, and security while LoRaWAN gateways merely receive data broadcasts without any pre-processing.
Figure 1. Architecture of a LoRaWAN Network.
Reference: Enhancing Key Management in LoRaWAN with Permissioned Blockchain - Scientific Figure on ResearchGate. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Architecture-of-a-LoRaWAN-Network_fig1_341834399 [accessed 27 Nov 2024]
Understanding Types of LoRaWAN Networks
LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network) is a popular technology for connecting low-power devices to the internet over long distances. But did you know that LoRaWAN networks come in different types? Let's explore the three main types:
1. Public LoRaWAN Networks
Consider them to be the Internet of Things' cellular networks. Using their current infrastructure, major telecom firms roll out these networks across the country. Like your cell phone plan, they charge a membership fee for LoRaWAN connectivity.
Key Features:
- Broad coverage area, frequently nationwide
- Professional assistance and dependable service
- Just connect your devices and subscribe to make it easy to use
- Good for enterprises requiring guaranteed service levels and large-scale installations
As an example, Swisscom offers a countrywide LoRaWAN network in Switzerland, which enables both individuals and companies to create and implement intelligent solutions throughout the nation.
2. Community-Based LoRaWAN Networks
These networks are driven by the enthusiasm of small enterprises, non-profits, amateurs, and people. They are founded on a spirit of cooperation, with users helping to expand the network.
Key Features:
- Often focused on particular areas or communities
- Powered by shared infrastructure and open-source concepts
- Economical choice for single people and small-scale initiatives
- Encourages creativity and testing in the IoT community
One such example is The Things Network, which provides a global LoRaWAN network server architecture and encourages customers to install gateways in order to increase coverage.
3. Private LoRaWAN Networks
These networks are like to having a private IoT space. Organizations create and manage these networks solely for their own objectives.
Key Features:
- Complete control over network performance and security
- Options for customization to satisfy certain device and application requirements
- Perfect for crucial applications and sensitive data
- It can be set up on the cloud or locally
Loriot is an example of this kind of network, providing private LoRaWAN server networks that let businesses set up enterprise-level configurations and even profit from their network infrastructure.
Discover also about LoRaWAN Network Server – Integrated or Cloud-hosted, by downloading this whitepaper here.
LoRa Vs LoRaWAN
Although the names LoRa and LoRaWAN are sometimes used synonymously, they refer to different ideas. The physical layer technology that supports LoRa is a proprietary radio signal transmission system that was created by Semtech. It encodes information using a special chirped, multi-symbol structure for effective communication. It can be considered as the means by which the signal is transmitted.
Conversely, LoRaWAN expands on LoRa to produce a comprehensive networking protocol. With features like encryption and identity for safe and dependable data transport, it specifies how LoRa-based devices interact with gateways and one another.
Essentially, LoRaWAN serves as the foundation and infrastructure for large-scale, low-power wide-area networks (LPWANs), with LoRa serving as the core technology that facilitates long-distance communication.
Advantages of LoRaWAN Network
The following are some of the many benefits of this cutting-edge, evolving IoT technology:
Long Range and Coverage
No other communication protocol can match its range, which can extend up to 15 kilometers in LOS. For connecting devices in far-off or challenging-to-reach places, this makes it perfect.
Low Power Consumption
The ultra-low power operation of LoRaWAN devices greatly extends the battery life of sensors. This is crucial for IoT applications where frequent battery replacement is impractical or impossible.
Low-cost hardware
When compared to other networks, LoRaWAN infrastructure and end-device radios are extremely inexpensive. In addition, different open-source versions of gateways and other infrastructures are being developed, which will further reduce costs.
High Capacity
Thousands of sensors may be connected to a single LoRaWAN network, making it perfect for broad adoption in industrial IoT, smart city, and environmental monitoring applications.
Cost-Effective Hardware
When compared to alternatives, LoRaWAN infrastructure and end-device radios are incredibly cheap. Costs are further reduced by the availability of open-source components and gateways.
Read also: LoRaWAN Gateway Case Study: R3000 LG Solution for Lighting Control
The Bottom Line
One innovative solution that tackles the difficulties of putting large-scale IoT installations into practice is LoRaWAN. From smart cities and industrial automation to environmental monitoring and agriculture, its vast range, low power consumption, and affordable infrastructure make it the perfect choice for a variety of applications.
Organizations may maximize the potential of this game-changing technology by selecting the best solution to meet their individual needs by being aware of the various types of LoRaWAN networks and their distinctive features. LoRaWAN is set to be a key component in linking billions of devices and fostering innovation in a variety of sectors as the IoT environment develops.
Ready to Unlock the Power of Lorawan for your IoT Applications?
Strong LoRaWAN gateways provide a dependable and strong approach to link your devices and expand your network. Look through the selection of Robustel gateways to choose which one best suits your requirements. To find out more and get started, contact us today.