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connectivity

IoT Glossary

SIM Cards and Mobile Connectivity

What is a SIM card and what does a SIM card do?

A Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card is a small, portable card used in mobile devices to securely store and transfer subscriber data, such as phone numbers, contacts, and network-specific information.

What is an APN? Access Point Name (APN) is a unique identifier assigned by a mobile network to enable a device to connect to the internet or a private network.
What is an IMSI?

An IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity) is a unique identification number assigned to a SIM card in a mobile network. It helps identify and authenticate the subscriber on the network.

What is an IMSI number?

It is the unique numerical identifier assigned to an IMSI. It consists of three components: Mobile Country Code (MCC), Mobile Network Code (MNC), and Mobile Station Identification Number (MSIN). The IMSI number is used to identify and authenticate the user in the mobile network.

What is an IMEI? An International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a unique identification number assigned to every mobile device. It helps identify and track individual devices in a network.
What is an embedded SIM card (eSIM)?

It is a SIM card that is integrated into a device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or IoT device, during the manufacturing process. It enables the device to connect to a mobile network without requiring a physical SIM card to be inserted or replaced.

What is Multi-SIM?

It refers to the capability of a device or network to support multiple SIM cards simultaneously. This enables the device to connect to different mobile networks or have multiple mobile numbers on a single device.

IoT and Connectivity Technologies

What is an IoT?

"IoT" stands for the "Internet of Things." It's a network of smart, connected objects like devices and machines that can collect and share data with each other via the internet. These objects can work together and perform tasks without human involvement. IoT makes things smarter and more efficient in areas like healthcare, transportation, and more.

What is an IoT device?

An IoT device is a smart, internet-connected object or gadget that can collect and exchange data with other devices and systems.

What is IoT device management?

IoT device management refers to the process of monitoring, controlling, and maintaining a fleet of IoT devices throughout their lifecycle. It involves tasks like provisioning, firmware updates, security management, and remote troubleshooting.

What is M2M? Machine-to-Machine (M2M) refers to the direct communication and interaction between devices or machines without human intervention. It involves devices exchanging data and performing actions based on pre-defined rules.
What is Industrial IoT? Industrial IoT (IIoT) is the application of IoT technologies and solutions in industrial settings to enhance efficiency, productivity, and automation. It involves connecting industrial equipment, sensors, and systems to gather data and optimize processes.
What is LTE-M?

LTE-M, also known as Long-Term Evolution for Machines, is a low-power, wide-area network technology designed for IoT devices. It provides improved coverage, longer battery life, and better network penetration for IoT applications compared to traditional cellular networks.

What is LoRaWAN? It is a Low-Power Wide-Area Network (LPWAN) protocol designed for connecting low-power devices over long-range wireless connections. It enables long-range communication with low energy consumption, making it suitable for Internet of Things (IoT) applications. LoRaWAN operates in unlicensed radio bands and allows for secure and bi-directional communication between devices and network infrastructure.
What is NB-IoT?

NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet of Things) is a low-power, wide-area networking technology designed for connecting IoT devices. It provides efficient and reliable communication over long distances while consuming minimal power. NB-IoT is suitable for applications that require low data rates, long battery life, and deep indoor penetration.

What is Private LTE? It is a wireless communication network using LTE (Long-Term Evolution) technology that is privately owned and operated by an organization. Private LTE networks provide dedicated connectivity for specific applications or locations, such as enterprises, industrial sites, campuses, or remote areas.
What is IoT Connectivity? It refers to the means by which Internet of Things (IoT) devices establish and maintain connections with other devices or networks. It encompasses wireless technologies like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular networks, and low-power wide-area networks (LPWAN).
What is Global Connectivity? It refers to the ability of devices or networks to connect and communicate across different regions or countries worldwide. Global connectivity is crucial for global businesses and IoT deployments that require seamless access to networks and services regardless of geographical boundaries.
What is IoT remote monitoring? IoT remote monitoring is the practice of remotely monitoring and managing IoT devices, systems, or processes using sensors, connectivity, and data analytics. It allows businesses to track and analyze real-time data, detect anomalies, and take necessary actions without physical presence.
What is an MVNO? A Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) is a company that provides wireless communication services without owning the underlying network infrastructure. MVNOs lease network services from existing mobile network operators to offer their own branded services.
What are business connectivity services? Business connectivity services encompass the technologies and services used to connect an organization's various devices, systems, and applications to enable seamless communication, data transfer, and collaboration. It includes networking solutions, cloud services, and integration platforms.