WAN, LPWAN, PAN, LAN: 4 types of IoT networks explained
An IoT network connects a set of sensors and smart devices, enabling them to exchange information. Here is an introduction to the four main types of networks.
Les réseaux étendus à faible latence (LPWAN)
LPWAN (Low Power Wide Area Network) are energy-efficient extended networks. These wireless protocols connect all types of IoT sensors and pave the way for innovative use cases, especially projects with challenging network coverage requirements (in forests, underground, etc.).
Their main advantages? They connect devices over vast distances and offer PSM (Power Saving Mode) and eDRX (Extended Discontinuous Reception) functionalities, which reduce energy consumption and extend battery life up to 10 years. For professionals with hard-to-access IoT devices, LPWAN thus reduces the need for maintenance to replace the battery.
For IoT projects, the most popular LPWA solutions are LTE-M and NB-IoT technologies, based on 4G. The reason: they can cover large areas and enable reliable, secure, and low-power operations. The main differences between LTE-M and NB-IoT lie in battery life and mobility:
- LTE-M
With higher bandwidth, this standard supports a massive number of connections while maintaining low energy consumption for devices. Based on the 4G network, LTE-M allows devices to switch between network cells without losing signal. LTE-M is particularly suitable for devices integrating moving sensors (asset tracking, telemedicine, personal security, water management, etc.).
- NB-IoT
With a narrower bandwidth than 4G, this protocol supports a greater number of devices within a single network cell. Its main strengths lie in its low energy consumption and strong penetration capability inside buildings. Ideal for devices requiring long battery life, it is applicable to use cases such as remote metering, smart agriculture, and smart cities.
Also read: How to use IoT in cities to improve the quality of life?
Personal and local networks (PAN and LAN)
These types of IoT networks share a common trait: data transmission is limited to a local environment.
- Personal Area Network (PAN)
This network connects devices located within approximately 10 meters of the body. It is suitable for applications requiring data exchanges over short distances, such as home automation or contactless payment. Internet connection is facilitated through technologies like Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), RFID, ZigBee (similar to Bluetooth but dedicated to IoT), or NFC.
- Local Area Network (LAN)
A LAN consists of a local network of connected devices over short distances, such as the Wi-Fi or Ethernet network in a home or business. It is also suitable for slightly larger but still confined areas, such as a university campus.
Wide Area Networks (WAN)
A WAN’s distinction is its ability to connect small networks over large distances. It is typically used by enterprises with international branches to link their local networks (offices, data centers, cloud applications, cloud storage, etc.). It includes multiple routers and switches.
Throughput, range, battery life: comparing IoT networks
An IoT network is a technology that allows your devices to connect to the Internet. Each network has its advantages and disadvantages, characterized by three key elements:
- Bandwidth: The volume of data that can be transmitted in a given time.
- Range: The maximum distance over which communication can exist.
- Energy Consumption: Both in standby and transmission modes.