What are the 7 key features of Wireless Connectivity Management?

The world of IoT and M2M technologies is changing rapidly. These ecosystems, though complex, are becoming increasingly vital for businesses. To make sense of it all, we can break them down into three key components: the Device, the Application, and the Connectivity. It’s this Connectivity that forms the backbone of IoT and M2M, enabling communication among devices. In many cases, projects rely on wireless cellular connectivity, powered by a simple SIM card. But what sets these projects apart from your everyday smartphone or tablet? In this article, we’ll explore seven crucial features that Connectivity Management Platforms bring to the table for enterprises embarking on IoT journeys.

To get there, we’ll start by examining the unique aspects of IoT and M2M solutions compared to the traditional cellular subscriptions you’re familiar with from your personal devices. This comparison will reveal why Connectivity Management is so essential, and we’ll also delve into the core features offered by leading Connectivity Management Platforms.

So, let’s begin by exploring the distinctions between consumer and IoT requirements, uncovering why Connectivity Management is a game-changer in the world of IoT.

Why is connectivity management crucial? Comparing mobile and IoT worlds

In this section, our goal is to draw a clear comparison between the requirements of everyday cellular devices like smartphones and tablets and the specialized devices used in IoT and M2M scenarios. One fundamental distinction is that, in the former, humans interact with the device, while in the latter, the device operates autonomously.

The table below underscores some of the key differences:

This table highlights the distinct connectivity requirements of standard cellular subscriptions compared to the set of prerequisites essential for the success of an IoT or M2M project.

Navigating an IoT or M2M project differs significantly from managing conventional mobile solutions tailored for human use. To illustrate, consider a fleet management company utilizing connectivity to efficiently oversee its vehicles. In this scenario, the company may have to manage potentially thousands of subscriptions, each enabling vehicles to transmit valuable data via the cellular network. Opting for a traditional wireless service built on consumer subscriptions deprives the company of advanced connectivity management. Consequently, the company remains in the dark regarding the behaviour of its fleet devices on the network—akin to driving a car without headlights, inefficient and potentially risky.

So, what should such a company seek?

To meet these unique requirements, service providers like Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), and resellers have augmented wireless connectivity with a layer of management known as Connectivity Management Platforms (CMPs). This layer provides visibility and control over the connected fleet, empowering enterprises to make informed decisions and prevent inefficient usage of connectivity.

Next, let’s explore an overview of the features typically offered by Connectivity Management platforms.

What are the 7 key features of a Connectivity management platform?

Understanding the disparities between the mobile world and the IoT and M2M realms is a pivotal distinction, often spelling the difference between the success and failure of a connected product in the market.

So, what precisely is connectivity management, and what are the core features of these platforms? And most importantly, why are these features vital for the triumph of an IoT project?

To cater to the specific demands of IoT and M2M, Connectivity service providers have evolved, introducing an indispensable layer known as connectivity management, often embodied in the form of Connectivity Management Platforms (CMPs).

Let’s dive into the most crucial features of these platforms:

1. 1. Device Provisioning: CMPs offer a sophisticated approach to SIM management, aligning with the lifecycle of IoT devices. They introduce multiple SIM states, tailored to various project phases: from production and shipment to delivery and end-of-life. What’s more, they employ zero-touch provisioning, eliminating the need for manual interventions during SIM state transitions. These transitions are triggered automatically by changing parameters.

1. 2. Real-time Monitoring: CMPs provide real-time insights into device behaviour and network performance, offering unparalleled visibility into your IoT ecosystem. This enables proactive troubleshooting and immediate responses to emerging issues.

1. 3. Rate Plan Optimization: CMPs offer flexible and automated rate plan optimization based on data usage volume and other parameters. This ensures that your IoT devices are always on the most cost-effective rate plan, preventing unnecessary expenses.

1. 4. Real-time Troubleshooting Tools: Connectivity Management Platforms offer real-time troubleshooting tools that empower enterprises to diagnose and address issues promptly. These tools provide insights into device connectivity problems, allowing for quick resolutions and minimizing downtime. This feature ensures that IoT ecosystems remain robust and efficient.

1. 5. Automation: Connectivity Management Platforms excel in automation, enabling them to take proactive actions when events occur. They can automatically adjust settings, allocate resources, and respond to predefined triggers, minimizing manual intervention. This automation streamlines operations, enhances efficiency and ensures rapid responses to evolving IoT and M2M demands.

1. 6. Security Controls: Robust security controls are a hallmark of CMPs, allowing you to enforce stringent security measures. Only authorized devices can connect and utilize the allocated data allowance, mitigating potential security threats.

1. 7. Data Usage Analytics: Connectivity Management Platforms offer comprehensive data usage analytics, allowing enterprises to gain valuable insights into how their IoT devices consume data. This data-driven approach enables better decision-making, as enterprises can identify trends, predict future usage, and allocate resources more effectively.

In the context of our fleet management example, the advantages of efficient connectivity management become abundantly clear. With the features of a Connectivity Management Platform at their disposal, the fleet management company can achieve a new level of operational efficiency by:

• • • Monitoring real-time usage and making informed rate plan adjustments before the end of each billing cycle.
    • Detecting devices caught in connectivity loops that might compromise service quality.
    • Safeguarding the entire fleet through fraud detection mechanisms and swift corrective actions.
    • Implementing stringent security controls to ensure that only authorized devices can access and utilize the fleet’s data allowance.

These features collectively result in a more streamlined and optimized fleet management operation, ultimately enhancing the efficiency of the entire company.

In the next section of this article, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the right Connectivity Management Platform for your specific IoT or M2M project.

What are the main connectivity management platforms on the market?

In the world of IoT and M2M, connectivity management has witnessed a proliferation of Connectivity Management Platforms (CMPs) to cater to the diverse needs of enterprises. These platforms serve as the backbone for effectively managing your IoT wireless connectivity, offering a range of features and capabilities.

Connectivity Management Platforms (CMPs) can be categorized into different types based on their ownership and deployment models. Two common types are:

1. SaaS-Based CMPs (Software as a Service): These platforms are typically provided by third-party vendors and are offered as cloud-based services. Examples of SaaS-based CMPs include Cisco IoT Control Center and Ericsson IoT Accelerator. These platforms are often chosen for their scalability, ease of deployment, and flexibility.
2. MNO/MVNO-Built CMPs: Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) also often develop their own CMPs to support their IoT connectivity offerings. These platforms are designed to work seamlessly with their respective networks. MNO/MVNO-built CMPs can provide deep network integration and specialized features tailored to their network infrastructure.

When selecting a wireless connectivity service provider for your IoT project, it’s essential to inquire about the type of Connectivity Management Platform (CMP) they offer, as this choice can significantly impact the management and success of your IoT deployment.

How to choose your IoT connectivity provider?

A Connectivity Management Platform (CMP) often comes bundled with your wireless connectivity contract from your chosen service provider. When embarking on the journey to select a service provider for your IoT connectivity needs, you’ll discover a wide array of options, including Mobile Network Operators, Mobile Virtual Operators, and resellers. Each type of service provider has integrated a Connectivity Management Platform into their IoT strategy.

In the process of selecting your service provider, it becomes crucial to define your requirements and carefully consider the suite of services and features offered by your service provider’s Connectivity Management Platform.

So, let’s start with the first step: defining your requirements for your IoT project. As you articulate your connectivity needs, you’ll begin to narrow down your choices for both the service provider and the CMP, aligning them with your specific objectives.

Here’s a comprehensive list of parameters to be considered for your IoT project:

1. 1. 1. 1. Wireless Cellular Technologies: Evaluate the service provider’s support for various wireless cellular technologies, such as 2G, 3G, 4G LTE, LTE-M, 5G, and Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT). Ensure compatibility with your IoT devices and future technology advancements to maintain connectivity reliability.
         2. SIM Technologies: Service providers offer a multitude of SIM options, ranging from traditional mini, micro and nano-sized SIMs to robust industrial-grade SIMs designed to withstand harsh environments. Additionally, eSIM and iSIM have emerged as cutting-edge choices. Evaluating the correct SIM technology is a crucial aspect of the selection process, ensuring it aligns perfectly with your project’s specific needs and operating conditions.
         3. Coverage and roaming: Assess the geographical areas where your IoT devices will operate and ensure that the service provider’s network provides adequate coverage. If international operation is a requirement, investigate the provider’s roaming agreements for seamless global connectivity.
         4. Solution Architecture: the solution architecture covering aspects like the Access Point Network (APN), Virtual Private Network (VPN), and the path to the cloud-based applications play a vital role in ensuring seamless data transmission and secure connectivity for your IoT project.
         5. Cost Structure: Evaluate the pricing model to ensure that it aligns with your budget and anticipated usage.
         6. Connectivity Management Platform: Analise the extent of features included in the service provider’s management platform and make sure it aligns with your requirements to fully control your connected device fleet.
         7. Support and Customer Service: Consider the availability and responsiveness of customer support for technical assistance.
         8. Partnerships and Ecosystem: Explore any partnerships or alliances the provider has that can enhance your IoT project’s success.

By addressing these parameters, you’ll be better equipped to select both the ideal service provider and Connectivity Management Platform that align with your IoT project’s unique requirements and objectives.

Conclusion: elevating your IoT success

In the fast-paced world of IoT and M2M technologies, connectivity lies at the heart of every successful project. As we’ve explored in this article, the complexities of IoT ecosystems, with their devices, applications, and crucially, connectivity, require a dedicated approach to management.

By understanding the unique requirements of IoT and M2M solutions, as well as the distinctions between consumer and industrial needs, you can pave the way for a successful IoT journey. Connectivity Management Platforms (CMPs) play a pivotal role in simplifying the complexity of managing diverse IoT devices, optimizing data usage, ensuring security, and enabling efficient troubleshooting.

However, the journey doesn’t end with this knowledge alone. To harness the full potential of connectivity management, it’s vital to take action. Whether you’re currently engaged in an IoT project or planning to embark on one, here’s your call to action:

1. 1. 1. 1. Assess Existing Contracts: For ongoing IoT projects, review your existing connectivity contracts. Evaluate whether they align with the requirements of your project. Ensure that your service provider offers a suitable Connectivity Management Platform to streamline device management and optimize connectivity.
         2. Explore New Contracts: If you’re starting a new IoT initiative, carefully evaluate potential service providers and their CMP offerings. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about features, scalability, and customisation options. Seek a partner that aligns with your project’s unique needs.
         3. Prioritize Connectivity Management: Recognize that connectivity management is not an afterthought but a foundational element of IoT success. Make it a priority in your project planning and execution.
         4. Stay Informed: The IoT landscape is continually evolving. Stay informed about the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in connectivity management to ensure your project remains competitive and efficient.

In today’s data-driven, automated world, robust connectivity management is your key to unlocking the full potential of IoT and M2M solutions. Treat it as a strategic asset and watch your IoT projects thrive. Whether you’re reviewing existing contracts or starting new IoT ventures, remember: connectivity management is your compass for effective IoT navigation.