Why are 2G/3G being turned off?
As 5G technology develops, we are seeing more and more global telecommunications providers scaling down 2G and 3G.
This is due to the fact that there is limited bandwidth on those frequencies, and shutting down older networks will free up space for 5G deployment.
It is expected that many of these global 2G/3G network closures will be completed by 2024/2025. Robustel has created a graphic (below) that outlines when many of these network outages will occur, as well as a list of countries where 2G and/or 3G spectrum has already been reworked.
Why now?
There has been some delay in the adoption of 2G/3G networks due to the number of M2M/IoT devices using these services. The networks are still in high demand due to accessibility, lower cost and reliable global coverage, ideal for applications with small, low transmit frequency data packets (such as utility metering).
The IoT industry is now looking to next-generation LTE technologies such as Cat-1, Cat-0 and Cat-M1 as a replacement for 2G, 3G (and eventually) 4G.
Stop investing in devices that rely on 2G or 3G networks. Start researching which products can be upgraded for 4G and 5G now. There is still time to avoid a stressful and expensive emergency switch.
A well-planned migration for a small to medium sized deployment can take up to 2 years!
How do I prepare for this 2G/3G shutdown?
The first step is to perform a thorough audit so that you know exactly which network each device is using as primary and backup. Look out for 3G acronyms such as “Next G”, “GPRS” “UMTS” “W-CDMA” and “HSPA/HSPA+/HSDPA”. If your hardware relies on any of these technologies, they will no longer be operational once a 3G downfall occurs.
This also applies to legacy applications such as CSD. It would be wise to ensure that your applications do not use Circuit Switched Data, although many have made the transition with the closure of 2G.
The next step is to look at your current requirements and future scalability. How could you streamline your existing system? What needs to change to protect your business?
In this case, you would ideally consider moving to the following networks depending on your data and speed requirements: “LTE / LTE-A / LTE-A Pro” “4G / 4GX / 4GPlus” “LTE-M / Cat- M1 (LPWAN technology)” “NB-IoT / NB1 (LPWAN technology)” “5G/5G NR”.
These technologies support 'new' networks and are likely to give your devices a longer lifespan. While a 4G shutdown is expected in the future, it is unlikely to be for another decade.
We recommend you to check if your local telecom provider supports the above mentioned technologies, especially the LPWANs. Delmation will be happy to help you with this.
Once this is known, the orientation for finding future-proof hardware begins. What are your options if a network or other technology changes?
How can Delmation help?
Delmation can provide a range of solutions to ease the transition. No matter your industry, Delmation has a solution to keep your business connected.
For more information, please contact Delmation.