eSIM (embedded SIM)
An eSIM is a programmable SIM card directly integrated into an IoT device. The eSIM stores all the necessary information for the identification and authentication of the device on the network. Its main advantage lies in its ability to store multiple operator profiles, allowing users to easily switch from one profile to another or even change operators remotely, without the need for physical replacement.
Not to be confused with a soldered SIM, the eSIM offers dynamic management of subscriptions.
Soldered SIM
A soldered SIM is a SIM card that is integrated directly into an IoT device during its manufacturing; thus, it cannot be removed or replaced. This feature is an advantage for many devices such as certain medical equipment or security systems, as it ensures optimal integration quality into the object and prevents malfunctions.
Moreover, the soldered SIM is particularly resistant to demanding environments, as it is highly resilient to shocks, vibrations, and temperature changes. This robustness makes it an ideal solution for industrial applications, connected vehicles, or any other use requiring high reliability.
Finally, soldered SIMs are also more secure because they are harder to remove, reducing the risks of fraud or data theft.
IoT platform
This term refers to the infrastructure and applications needed to collect, store, analyze, and redistribute information from data generated by connected devices. The IoT platform is typically hosted in the cloud to standardize data collection and information exchange between applications.
IoT Gateways or Getway
The role of an IoT gateway is to connect IoT devices to the cloud. Essentially, it acts as a centralized hub through which all the data collected from IoT sensors passes before reaching the cloud. In detail, it allows for:
- Downloading data from IoT sensors,
- Pre-processing and filtering these data to reduce their volume,
- Transmitting these pre-processed data to applications hosted on the cloud.
This gateway is an essential step to securing your connected objects. It enables bidirectional data flow between the cloud and devices and can take the form of a specific device or software.
> Also read : What is an IoT getaway?
Cloud
The cloud refers to servers as well as the software, storage spaces, and databases that these servers host. The servers in the cloud are housed in data centers worldwide. Cloud computing allows users to access the same files and applications live from anywhere in the world and from any device, since data and file storage is done on servers, not locally on the user’s device.
M2M or Machine to Machine
M2M (Machine to Machine) refers to automated communication between devices without human intervention, often using wireless networks (cellular) to exchange data and trigger actions automatically. This technology is used in many sectors to optimize efficiency and productivity, particularly for tasks related to inventory management, data collection, and fleet management.
3GPP
The 3rd Generation Partnership Project, or 3GPP, is an international cooperation aimed at standardizing mobile telecommunications. It includes organizations such as ITU (International Telecommunication Union), ETSI in Europe, ARIB/TTC in Japan, CCSA in China, ATIS in North America, and TTA in South Korea. 3GPP establishes and shares technical specifications for mobile networks including 3G, LTE-M, NB-IoT, 4G, and 5G.
Protocoles de communications IoT
An IoT communication protocol refers to an established communication system between multiple connected objects. Different types of protocols exist:
- Short-range networks (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Near Field Communication…) that enable information transmission over short distances and are particularly used in the field of home automation.
- Long-range networks (cellular networks such as GSM, 4G, 5G, LoRaWan, SigFox…) that enable information transmission over long distances and are favored by companies needing to connect infrastructures and equipment located several kilometers apart.
WAN, PAN, LAN and LPWAN
These network types enable IoT to connect to the internet:
- WAN (Wide Area Network): This is a long-distance network spanning several tens of square kilometers, used for connected vehicles or to link banks to their branches and ATMs. Wireless WAN networks include 4G, 5G, and LTE (Long-Term Evolution) networks.
- PAN (Personal Area Network): This is a short-distance network used for Bluetooth connections or connected light bulbs.
- LAN (Local Area Network): This is a short-distance network, typically private internet networks used for enterprise or home Wi-Fi.
- LPWAN (Low Power Wide Area Network): This long-distance network covers several tens of square kilometers but, unlike WAN, it uses low energy as it offers less bandwidth or sleep mode functionalities. It is used for parking sensors or water metering. Wireless LPWAN networks include LTE-M and NB-IoT.
- LTE-M: This extension of the 4G/LTE network complements the LPWA technology market. It is optimal for IoT devices with limited needs, offering low-power connections while ensuring long-range indoor coverage and coverage in buried or semi-buried sites.
- NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet of Things): This is a protocol dedicated to wide-area low-power networks. It combines long-distance coverage and low energy consumption, and perfectly adapts to the needs of industry or remote metering.
> Also read: WAN, LPWAN, PAN, LAN: everything you need to know about IoT networks
Firewall
A firewall is a network security device that monitors incoming and outgoing traffic, preventing unauthorized users from accessing the network. Based on predefined security rules, the firewall either grants or denies access to the network. There are two types of firewalls: network-based firewalls, and host-based firewalls, which are installed directly on the IoT device.
Objenious supports you
Need advice to create or develop your IoT project? Our experts are here to guide you and leverage their experience to ensure your success, providing connected solutions with a level of security tailored to your needs.