In our previous post, we provided an introduction to IoT within the commercial property management space.  From temperature and humidity levels to occupancy patterns and energy consumption, these sensors capture invaluable information that, when analyzed effectively, can optimize building operations, enhance user experience, and drive sustainability efforts. In this post, we will outline the various types of networks available to integrate IoT data from various sources and outline which option is best for various use cases.

Considerations When Looking at Network Options for IoT Data

When considering wireless network options to harness IoT sensor data in buildings, it’s important to start by questioning whether you need wireless connectivity at all. While there are clear advantages to not having to install fibre to every area that will have an IoT device, wired solutions can eliminate many of the challenges associated with wireless networks. For example, some use cases will require real-time data and demand high data quality, and wireless connectivity can struggle to meet the demands for these applications.

The decision between wired and wireless should align with your overall vision. For example, in/out sensors and occupancy sensors might need high-speed connectivity, while leak detection sensors might not. Security requirements and the ability to scale deployments are also key factors that might influence your choice.

In addition, it’s important to consider the maturity of the entire ecosystem and not just the wireless network protocol. Would the various IoT vendors be able to support the wireless protocol? Will your implementation partner be able to manage it? The goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for your environment and stakeholders.

Wireless Network Options for IoT implementation in Commercial Buildings

Given the above considerations, let’s delve into the types of wireless networks available to seamlessly integrate IoT data from various sources:

• Traditional Wi-Fi: Among the most prevalent and versatile options for IoT connectivity are the traditional Wi-Fi networks. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Zigbee are examples of wireless protocols widely used within buildings. Wi-Fi provides high-speed connectivity suitable for data-intensive applications, while Bluetooth and Zigbee excel in low-power, short-range communications ideal for sensor networks within confined spaces.
• BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy): Bluetooth is a short-range wireless technology commonly used for connecting IoT devices like smart appliances and wearables. BLE is a low-power variant ideal for battery-operated devices requiring low data rates.
• Cellular Networks (4G LTE/5G): Leveraging existing cellular infrastructure provides ubiquitous connectivity for IoT devices, making it a convenient option for buildings located in urban areas or regions with extensive cellular coverage. Technologies like 4G LTE and emerging 5G networks, including the CBRS spectrum for private 5G in the US, offer reliable and high-bandwidth connectivity, enabling real-time data transmission and analysis for mission-critical applications.
• LPWAN (Low-Power Wide-Area Network): LPWAN is an umbrella term for a type of wireless network designed to accommodate IoT devices with low power consumption requirements and long-range connectivity at slower data transmission rates. There are many LPWAN technologies and standards worldwide, including the unlicensed cellular LPWANs such as LoRaWan and the licensed cellular spectrums including NB-IoT and LTE-M.
  • LoRaWAN: LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network) is a proprietary LPWAN technology backed by the LoRa Alliance and offers an efficient and cost-effective solution for connecting IoT devices over long distances. LoRaWAN gateways serve as intermediaries between IoT sensors and the cloud, facilitating low-power, wide-area communications. Deploying LoRaWAN gateways enables seamless integration of sensor data from remote or distributed locations into centralized IoT platforms.
  • NB–IoT: NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT) is a cellular LPWAN technology standardized by 3GPP and operate on a licensed spectrum within existing cellular infrastructure. NB-IoT is designed for low power consumption, low cost IoT devices that need to transmit small data packets over long distances where real-time data transfer is not critical.
  • LTE-M: LTE-M (Long Term Evolution for Machines) is a type of LPWAN designed to provide low-power, low-cost, and long-range connectivity for IoT devices with extended battery life and improved coverage compared to traditional cellular networks.

Importance of Having a Proper Network Foundation

With all the various network options for IoT devices available, the key lies in designing a robust IoT network that meets bandwidth, latency, and power consumption requirements. The true power of IoT sensor data lies not just in its collection but in its analysis and interpretation. To achieve this, a crucial foundation lies in the networks that bring together diverse streams of sensor data.

At Andorix, we understand the importance of creating a solid foundation for your IoT network, whether wired or wireless.  Through our comprehensive implementation plans and vendor-agnostic approach, we ensure that your use cases are met in the most secure and scaleable manner for your building portfolio.