IoT Connectivity Options
Enterprise IoT devices connect through cellular (LTE Cat-M1, NB-IoT, 5G), LPWAN (LoRaWAN, Sigfox), Wi-Fi (6/6E), and satellite (LEO constellations). Selection depends on four factors: bandwidth requirements, power constraints, geographic coverage, and per-device economics at scale.
Cellular IoT
LTE Cat-M1 and NB-IoT are purpose-built for IoT with low power consumption and deep indoor penetration. Cat-M1 supports mobility (ideal for fleet tracking) while NB-IoT suits stationary sensors. Both operate on licensed spectrum, providing carrier-grade reliability. Per-SIM costs range from $1–$5/month at scale with pooled data plans.
When to Choose Each Technology
Use cellular IoT for mobile assets (vehicles, equipment), outdoor deployments needing wide-area coverage, or any use case requiring carrier-grade reliability. Use Wi-Fi for dense indoor sensor networks where power outlets are available. Use LPWAN for very low-bandwidth sensors (temperature, humidity) deployed in volume where cellular per-unit costs are prohibitive. Use satellite only for remote locations without terrestrial coverage.
Common Pitfalls
Selecting connectivity based on per-device cost alone ignores total cost of ownership — gateway infrastructure for LPWAN, access point density for Wi-Fi, and coverage gaps for any single technology. Failing to negotiate pooled data plans for cellular IoT leads to overspending as deployments scale. Not testing RF coverage at actual deployment locations before committing to a technology causes costly re-engineering.