The APN, an essential element for communication on the mobile network
The APN (Access Point Name) is a route that allows a device to connect to the Internet or a private network via the mobile network. It defines the connection parameters necessary for the operator to establish this link. Without a properly configured APN, an IoT solution may lose access to data services, thus preventing devices from transmitting information via the Internet or a private network.
The APN allows the operator to provide the DATA service based on defined configurations. Here are some of the parameters it manages:
- The type of IP address assigned to the device: IPv4 or IPv6.
- The method of IP allocation: dynamic or static.
- Authentication via an identifier and password, if this option is enabled.
The APN name can also be customized according to the client’s requirements.
To allow the device to use mobile data and access the web, the operator will read the APN to determine:
- The IP address to assign to the device;
- The cellular network to which the device should be connected;
- The security measures to be adhered to.
The APN is the “entry ticket” that opens the connection to the Internet. Most of the time, the parameters (IP address, security, etc.) are automatically defined by the operator.
Private APN and public APN: what are the differences?
Public M2M APN
A public M2M APN is an APN with specific configurations, adapted for IoT use, and shared by multiple clients. It allows devices to connect to the Internet, with all communications between the device and the application server passing through the Internet network.
A public APN can assign both public and private IP addresses, which can be dynamic or static, depending on its technical configuration. However, the allocation of static public IPs is rare and presents increased security risks.
In most cases, a public M2M APN allocates a private IP to the device, which is then translated to a public IP for Internet communication. This implies that the application server cannot initiate communication; it must wait for the device to establish the connection first.
Due to its exposure to the Internet, a public APN is less secure than a private APN, as the assigned IP addresses can be publicly accessible, increasing cybersecurity risks.
Private M2M APN
A private M2M APN is a custom-designed APN dedicated to a single client. It benefits from a secure interconnection between the mobile network and the client’s private network, using solutions like VPN IPsec or MPLS.
With a private APN, all communications exclusively pass through this secure interconnection without transiting via the Internet. Moreover, the application server can initiate communication with the device since they belong to the same private network, unlike a public APN.
This is why a private APN (or dedicated APN) is the solution used by companies requiring enhanced security. It allows data from IoT devices to be sent directly to a private corporate network, separate from other APNs. Data transfer is thus secured, as there is no need to access the public Internet. The option of authentication via identifier and password can further strengthen the security of a private APN. Devices must authenticate before being able to access DATA services.
Note: To meet specific needs, a private APN can be configured with an exit to the Internet. This allows devices to communicate securely with the private network while also accessing the Internet when necessary.
Why choose a private APN for your IoT project?
To support the deployment of your IoT projects, a private APN offers several advantageous connectivity options.
Data transfer security
As a business, a private APN allows you to enjoy reliable connectivity without exposing your data infrastructure and devices to the public internet. Your data is confined to the private networks of the operator and your company, which significantly protects them from the risks of cyberattacks and interceptions.
To illustrate, here is a use case where a private APN is indispensable: connected vending machines for food and beverages. These devices are associated with payment terminals handling sensitive data (e.g., payment requests to a bank). A private APN ensures a secure and airtight data flow, preventing it from being accessible on the Internet. This is why sectors such as healthcare, legal, and public administrations sometimes have the obligation to use a dedicated APN.
A unique APN regardless of the number of associated devices
A dedicated private APN is unique and reserved for a business account, regardless of the number of connected devices associated with it. Thus, you are not limited in deploying future IoT devices, both in France and internationally.
Remote configuration and management
A private APN provides you with a great degree of flexibility to define various parameters such as authentication methods, custom IP addresses, and firewall rules. Moreover, a private APN enables real-time remote access to all your equipment.
Benefit from Objenious’s support
To connect your devices worldwide and securely, choose a reliable connectivity partner who is an expert in the sector and capable of creating a custom APN that meets your requirements. At Objenious, we offer a wide range of solutions including 4G, LTE-M, NB IoT, or 5G, and tailor all our offers. Our guarantee? To provide you with the quality of Bouygues Telecom networks, a comprehensive management platform to efficiently handle your fleet of connected devices, and a specifically adapted APN access tailored to your cellular IoT needs. Contact us and share your projects!