The new year has just begun, and developments in IoT are moving faster than ever. New technologies, stricter regulations, and higher data security requirements mean you need to stay constantly alert.
In this blog, you'll read about the most important IoT and private network trends for 2026. This way, you can start the new year with a clear picture of what's to come!
Stricter cybersecurity legislation not to be missed in 2026
Cybersecurity has been a hot topic for some time now. Terms like NIS2 and the Cyber Resilience Act are everywhere. But starting this year, pressure from the EU and national governments to improve digital security is increasing. Not just for IT, but also for OT and hardware.
The most important cybersecurity guidelines at a glance:
- NIS2: Organizations in vital sectors are required to demonstrably have their digital resilience in order. In the Netherlands, NIS2 is expected to become legally effective starting in Q2 of this year. In Belgium, the requirement has been in effect since October 2024.
- Cyber Resilience Act (CRA): From 2027, this European regulation will impose cybersecurity requirements on manufacturers of digital products and software.
- CE RED DA: hardware is also receiving extra attention. Since last year, the CE RED DA directive has focused on the digital security of wireless devices that connect to the internet. Think, for example, of 4G and 5G routers.
- IEC 62443: For OT environments, this series of international standards helps to design, implement and operate industrial control systems safely.
We understand that with all the terminology and regulations, you're increasingly struggling to see the forest for the trees. That's why MCS is releasing a handy white paper this year. It explains the most important guidelines and shows you how to prepare your organization for these changes. Keep an eye on our newsletter and LinkedIn page to be the first to download the white paper.
Technology trends for IoT and private networks in 2026
In addition to legislation, MCS also sees other major developments in technology and applications within IoT and private networks.
1. Smart energy for a stable power grid
The overcrowded electricity grid leads to outages and long queues for new connections. Therefore, the focus will shift to smart energy management in 2026. This involves gaining insight into consumption and dynamically balancing supply and demand. Smart 4G or 5G connectivity allows you to collect real-time data on energy flows. This allows systems to automatically respond to, for example, negative electricity prices.
But peak loads also remain a major challenge. By storing energy in, for example, large battery farms, energy can be fed back into the grid during peak hours, relieving the burden on the grid.
Moreover, buildings are increasingly being equipped with smart sensors that monitor electricity, water, and gas consumption. Through simple retrofitting, for example with LoRaWAN sensors, we make existing (and often older) commercial buildings future-proof and energy-efficient.
2. IoT as an extension of a building management system
More and more organizations are expanding their existing wired building management systems with wireless IoT solutions. This makes smart buildings more accessible, affordable, and much more flexible. We're therefore seeing a rapid increase in demand for private LoRaWAN networks. For example, by connecting LoRaWAN to a KNX building management system, you can easily add functions that were previously complex or expensive.
But legislation and regulations also play a role here. This year, the EPBD IV will be incorporated into Dutch law. This will require organizations to demonstrate that their buildings are managed energy-efficiently.
With more and more connected devices, cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important. Building managers must actively ensure that all components comply with the latest standards and regulations.
3. Private 5G in industrial environments
5G is now widely available. While 4G was the standard for years in sectors like healthcare and retail, we see a clear shift towards industrial and logistics environments with 5G. Places where connectivity makes the difference between downtime and continuity.
Wi-Fi is still widely used in warehouses and distribution centers. But in practice, steel structures, moving vehicles, and data-intensive processes still regularly cause disruptions. Applications like Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), real-time tracking, and autonomous systems, in particular, require a private 5G network that remains stable throughout the building.
Hybrid solutions are also available. For example, our C-RAN solution offers a private 4G network that is 5G-ready from the start. You can easily upgrade to 5G later without redesigning or investing.
4. Secure remote management and device management will soon be required
Device management is becoming a more important part of IoT solutions. Think of managing firmware versions, rolling out security updates, and monitoring connected devices.
IoT solutions are increasingly being deployed at customer locations where direct access isn't always possible. Secure and reliable remote management allows you to remotely monitor, adjust settings, and assist customers when challenges arise. Moreover, remote management supports organizations with incident reporting requirements: all steps are traceable and easily documented.
With the CRA in 2027, a robust device management platform will no longer be a luxury but a strict requirement. From then on, it will be necessary to demonstrate that devices remain secure and up-to-date throughout their entire lifecycle.
5. Demand for NB-IoT is increasing
Within LPWAN, we expect a clear shift this year. Public LoRaWAN usage is declining, while private LoRaWAN is growing strongly. At the same time, mobile operators are increasingly investing in NB-IoT/LTE-M. Our vendors are also bringing more and more battery-powered NB-IoT devices to market. This makes NB-IoT a valuable addition to the existing IoT landscape.
The best choice of NB-IoT or LoRa for your application depends on several factors, such as:
– Number of devices on location
– Specific wishes regarding network coverage
– Need to use your own gateway
Payload size
6. Assistance from specialized partners
IoT, private networks, and security are becoming more complex every year. New technologies are emerging rapidly, and European legislation is constantly changing. Many organizations are faced with a full-time job keeping up with all the changes, and the time and manpower aren't always available. And everyone has their own area of expertise. As a result, they're reaching the limits of what they can manage, build, or interpret themselves.
That's why we're increasingly seeing external IoT experts like MCS being called upon for help. Not only for the implementation of solutions, but also for advice on security, compliance (such as NIS2), device management, connectivity, and lifecycle management.
Responding to innovations for more efficient processes
In 2026, it's all about looking ahead: capitalizing on new technologies, complying with European regulations, and making smart choices in connectivity and security. Organizations that embrace this shift will make their processes more robust and efficient.
Knowing more?
Want to discover how these developments can strengthen your projects? Our experts are ready to brainstorm with you and offer concrete solutions. Contact us, we're happy to help!
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