Open networks are the future of IoT

At The Things Network we bring a new paradigm to the way devices are connected to the internet.

We are building a global network for sensors and actuators with the long range connectivity protocol LoRaWAN? and we are implementing it in the most open way possible. Building an open network that is interoperable, where devices can roam freely and without blockage or walled gardens.

So why does this work? Why is a common infrastructure like the internet so incredibly powerful?

Redundancy

As everybody can extend the network, redundancy is created. A technology like LoRaWAN has a range of 10km so critical mass for a redundant network is reached very fast. The screenshot below of the map of Zurich shows 125 gateways that are active. This is an abundant supply of connectivity and provides such a redundancy that only a complete city power outage would be able to harm the network. Just like the internet the redundancy comes from the many routes the data can create for itself to find its destination.

Security

As the LoRaWAN protocol has embedded encryption, your data is secure while it travels over open networks. Because of the end-to-end encryption gives your control over your own keys, you have the full control over your devices and limit any lock-in with LoRaWAN technology providers.

No lock-in

Open infrastructures are not dependent on single technology providers. You can always switch as there are many providers. The interface definitions between the devices and the network are stable and switching to a different provider or operator is easy as you are in control of your own keys. In LoRaWAN you could migrate providers by sending one simple network command.

Build or Buy

Your business model is flexible because you can decide to either build the network all yourself and take on the CAPEX, or you contract a service provider and your cost model is more heavy on the OPEX. Whatever suits your needs.

Sustainable

You can be certain the LoRaWAN technology is here to stay as it is not bound to a single company that could potentially bring it down in case it falls over. The standard is governed by a the LoRa Alliance. At The Things Network we even provide a complete open source software stack to manage the network.

On the internet we have seen that if it comes to infrastructure common decentralisedalways wins. See Linux, Internet Protocol or many open source server applications. All examples where the infrastructure is based on open principles and the money is made in the services and applications.

So join this revolution now and leverage the common infrastructure to build your next IoT business or product. Check out The Things Network here and check out our commercial services with The Things Industries here.