M2M/IoT SIMs vs MBB

A dedicated private APN into the networks ensure 99.9% uptime.

Usage activity, network thresholds and Mobile Network Terms and Conditions* can all factor in delivering levels of service, not guaranteed.

*Using the consumer APN some networks do not allow High Bandwidth applications over their IPSec VPNs

With a dedicated APN and VPN services, expect uptimes of 99.79%+

Due to the consumer-nature of the services, multiple external factors can affect uptime performance.

Dedicated APNs for IoT are designed for multiple complex applications.

Networks can change aspects of the consumers APN services (e.g. new consumer smartphone/handsets are launched) – this can sometimes impact bespoke applications such as IoT. When this occurs, users will have to update their applications as networks won’t revert to earlier version.

SIMs can remain dormant for as much time as required. Inactivity will not lead to sessions being curtailed.

Non IoT Tariffs are likely to be disconnected from a Mobile Network if static for 85% of the time.

An IoT SIM is physically more resilient – harder wearing by being ruggedized for industrial environments, built for extreme environments such as high and low temperatures, high intensity vibrating environments and corrosion resistant. Built to last 10 years – important where IoT SIMs are placed in hard-to- reach locations.

MBB uses a standard consumer SIM – with a life-span of typically 2-3 years in line with mobile phone use, and built of lesser quality materials.

With an IoT data package, it is fully expected that thresholds are met monthly.

MBB Tariffs are calculated on 30% utilisation (often referred to as ‘fair use policy’). This is based upon a monthly contract. For users getting near or reaching their data limit, ‘throttling’ of the service purchased is likely.

Networks provide a ‘service wrap’ tailored to the more demanding needs of IoT applications.

Service levels are created around the needs of consumers and enterprise use. Mobile Networks do not recommend utilising consumer data services to underpin mission-critical business applications.

IoT Tariffs are supported by a dedicated IoT delivery team within the networks, with first and second line support built into the Service Level Agreement.

Managed by the Enterprise and Consumer Divisions of a Mobile Network, support levels are often limited to ‘best effort’ when there is a service issue, with no time frames to resolution. Second line support tickets may not be raised for IoT/business applications.

For IoT Tariffs, Mobile Networks create highly durable and service focused contracts that reflect the complexities and behaviours of IoT applications across their services.

Often, within a Mobile Network’s Terms of Use, the network can restrict usage or disconnect where required. Service impact where an IoT application is affecting the network will lead to disconnection instead of problem resolution.

IoT Tariffs provide static IP addressing, CSD and other functions often required by IoT applications.

MBB Tariffs deliver dynamic IP addresses.

Manage your costs, tariffs and data usage in real-time

Management platform capabilities not available

Public APNs removed so misuse within another device not possible

SIMs are unsecure and can be used in other devices