The Internet of Things (IoT) has transformed industries worldwide, enabling seamless communication between devices and providing unparalleled opportunities for innovation and efficiency. Mission-critical applications demand uninterrupted service. Connectivity outages, delays, or data breaches can lead to significant risks, particularly in sectors like healthcare, where lives may depend on real-time data transmission. As the number of connected devices continues to grow—Berg Insight predicts 14.2% CAGR for remotely monitored patients, reaching 126.1 million by 2027—it becomes imperative to adopt robust IoT connectivity solutions..
For organizations with mission-critical applications, such as healthcare, and remote patient monitoring, selecting the right IoT connectivity solution is not just a decision—it is a necessity to ensure reliability, security, and scalability. Such organizations are strongly advised to consider using cellular connectivity from multiple providers to ensure redundancy and safeguard against service interruptions. At Tele2 IoT we are a trusted partner for organizations operating mission-critical IoT applications. As many of the world-renowned brands and European leaders in connected care rely on our services.
This blog explores 9 key considerations and best practices for choosing IoT connectivity for mission-critical applications, focusing on sustainable and future-proof solutions.
Comprehensive Guide to IoT Connectivity Deployment
To ensure the success of mission-critical IoT applications, it is essential to integrate key connectivity criteria with strategic deployment considerations. Below is a detailed and actionable guide to achieving robust and reliable IoT connectivity:
- Reliability and Redundancy
- A resilient network infrastructure is paramount for mission-critical applications. Implement redundancy by leveraging cellular connectivity from multiple providers to ensure continuous service even during outages.
- Select providers that offer extended Service Level Agreements (SLAs), round-the-clock support, and transparent escalation protocols to mitigate risks effectively.
- Security
- Secure data transmission is crucial. Deploy private APNs and IPsec VPNs to protect sensitive information and ensure data integrity.
- Use advanced SIM management platforms to establish thresholds, automation rules, and real-time alerts, enabling proactive monitoring and control of device behavior and data usage.
- Scalability and Future-Proof Technology
- Plan for growth by adopting flexible solutions like eUICC SIMs, which enable seamless profile switching and remote management for adaptability to evolving technologies.
- Invest in technologies that support LTE-M and 5G while accommodating the phase-out of legacy standards like 2G and 3G to future-proof your IoT deployment.
- Initial Setup and Testing
- Begin with thorough testing using shared APNs for proof-of-concept validation and early-stage integration. Evaluate connectivity performance across LTE-M to 5G networks to identify the most suitable configuration for your use case.
- Assess performance metrics and scalability needs during this phase to ensure alignment with long-term deployment objectives.
- Deployment Setup and Design
- Choose between public and private APNs based on your security and scalability requirements:
- Public APN: Quick and easy to deploy but less adaptable for future upgrades or enhanced security needs.
- Private APN: Offers a dedicated environment that is better suited for scaling and integrating additional services, such as IPsec VPNs or cloud interconnects.
- Incorporate redundancy and flexible designs to accommodate future growth without extensive reconfiguration.
- Choose between public and private APNs based on your security and scalability requirements:
- Automation and Device Management
- Deploy automation rules within SIM management platforms to monitor data usage, enforce thresholds, and respond to anomalies promptly. Automation reduces operational overhead by minimizing repetitive tasks.
- Maintain full visibility and control over devices through advanced management tools. Capabilities like remote activation or deactivation, data consumption tracking, and automated security protocols enhance efficiency and reliability.
- Redundancy Planning
- Collaborate with your IoT provider to integrate multi-operator connectivity into your strategy. This approach ensures resilience against disruptions and optimizes service continuity for mission-critical applications.
- Regulatory and Market Trends
- Stay informed about IoT industry regulations and best practices, such as those outlined by GSMA, to ensure compliance with global standards.
- Understand market dynamics and customer demands to anticipate necessary upgrades and maintain competitive advantage.
- Internal alignment
- To ensure the success of mission-critical IoT applications, it is essential to integrate key connectivity criteria with strategic deployment considerations. This could be done only in close collaboration with your connectivity provider, making sure that you solution is safe and future-proof.
- As a provider of mission critical services, leveraging advanced monitoring tools and incorporating multi-operator solutions is imperative to achieving the smooth an uninterrupted service.
Conclusion
Choosing the right IoT connectivity for mission-critical applications is a multifaceted process that demands attention to reliability, security, scalability, and regulatory compliance. By collaborating with a trusted partner like Tele2 IoT, organizations can confidently navigate the complexities of IoT deployment, ensuring their solutions are robust, adaptable, and future-ready.
Let’s build a connected world of limitless possibilities together. Contact us to start your IoT journey today.