08 Aug Intelligent IoT Networks — The Smart SIM Revolution

As a leading provider for wireless solutions, TeraNova continues to search for faster, simpler, more robust and elegant ways to deploy and manage Internet of Things (IoT) networks. We are going to first take you down memory lane to show you how far we have come as we now embark on a new era of a single SIM, globally connected, intelligent network.

Back in the Day

The SIM or Subscriber Identity Module is a component traditionally placed inside phones, tablets and USB modems to connect to a network typically tied to a single domestic carrier. In the early days of building Machine-to-Machine (M2M) networks, SIMs were placed inside USB modems and then inserted into cellular routers. Eventually an “embedded” option was offered, meaning that SIMs were built directly into cellular routers with their identities tied back to specific carriers like Verizon Wireless, AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile.

However, we faced limitations when deploying large nationwide M2M networks. On the ground level, we needed to know which carrier to select because we had to order the carrier-specific USB modem or embedded router to be activated, shipped and deployed. Without an expensive onsite survey, we did the best we could with network/cell site maps to determine the carrier with the best signal strength. If, during installation, we discovered that the carrier’s signal strength was insufficient, we would quickly transition to an alternate carrier. The equipment was fairly expensive and every activated SIM was an extra billing component. Any surprises at the point of install and/or changes cost even more time and money. Because of these limitations, deployments were complex and often times more expensive with SIMs tied to specific carriers and equipment.

Additionally, it was necessary to keep a spare pool of routers with different carrier SIMS for post-install break/fix management, and if the signal strength changed for a particular carrier, either the SIM, USB modem or the entire router had to be replaced. Complicating matters, the sites were typically unmanned, requiring a truck roll that cost on average of $200-$350 per event.

Enter the Smart SIM

Now due to the latest technology and innovation, IoT devices can connect to the best network upon activation without expensive site surveys and/or signal strength testing at deployment locations. Here’s how. TeraNova is partnering up with Smart SIM provider Webbing.

Webbing is an MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) that has the flexibility to craft pricing and data plans that best meet the needs of enterprise clients for IoT (Internet of Things), tablets, laptops or Mi-Fi units nationwide and globally in 215 countries with a single SIM. The company’s global 4G and LTE network agreements, proprietary technology and Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities allow providers such as TeraNova to deliver smart IoT networks with inherent disaster recovery.

Freedom at Last

Today we can deploy smart SIMs from Webbing in any IoT device. At the point of deployment, the SIM will connect via network scanning and intelligent selection to the best available carrier, balancing both signal strength and service quality. Using Webbing’s technology, we can deploy a single-SIM solution across the primary Tier 1 Mobile Networks in the US, and at no additional cost beyond the primary plan cost.

The Smart SIM monitors QoS and if a failure or network congestion is detected, it reconnects to another network within seconds, thereby providing high uptime and throughput. Finally, we can operate IoT networks with greater freedom and simplicity, with domestic and worldwide reach, inherent resiliency and disaster recovery all on one bill and a single management platform.

“The team at Webbing has a really strong offering for enterprises relying on IoT applications, mobility plans and devices,” says Tommi Ellis, TeraNova partner development manager. “We couldn’t be more pleased to be working with them to help organizations evolve with the technology while reducing costs for IoT enablement.”

Adds Steve Haddock, vice president of strategic alliances at Webbing: “Enterprises are demanding greater visibility, control, security, and intelligence from their IOT devices. No longer is a dumb pipe to the internet sufficient for today’s enterprise clients. Through our strategic partnership with TeraNova, we can leverage their IOT and mobility expertise to design a turnkey solution that is unmatched in the industry.”

Natasha Royer Coons
natasha@teranovaglobal.com


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