Due to the enormously growing development in the telecommunications world, new and faster technologies and networks are constantly being developed. With the arrival of each new type of network, new applications become possible. Faster and more stable internet means that new applications can use more data and the more stable connection means that companies are dependent on wireless internet connections for more and more critical applications. Sometimes it is essential to free up old frequencies before using new frequencies.
This means that old networks are being phased out on a regular basis. This can have enormous consequences for your IoT applications. Various providers in Belgium also intend to phase out the 3G network. We are happy to give you an overview.
The phasing out of 3G has major consequences for the IoT landscape. Previous network closures have taught us that underestimating the magnitude of the impact can lead to massive operational disruptions. There are many IoT applications that still run on these networks because 2G and 3G provide enough bandwidth for these applications and 4G and 5G are simply not necessary for this. It is important to be aware of this, especially when the IoT devices are not suitable for 4G and 5G devices. If you are still using devices or hardware that only support 2G/3G, you should consider upgrading to devices that support 4G or 5G connectivity.
While our dependence on mobile technology increases daily, the continued development of newer versions such as 5G brings exciting and futuristic innovations such as self-driving cars. However, you always have to lose something to gain something. In this growth process, older generations, such as 2G and 3G networks, face an inevitable fate: global shutdowns. Closing 2G and 3G networks is a logical step to increase network bandwidth for 4G and 5G. Yet it poses challenges for individuals and companies that rely on these technologies, as Thorsten Stegmaier has experienced with his ALDE heating project. A previously used interaction solution for communication with ALDE stove consisted of ALDE's Smart Control and text messages. Unfortunately, this presented a huge challenge as this controller had an old-fashioned RS232 interface and was based on a 2G network, meaning it could no longer support the necessary communications. Without communication with the heating system, Thorsten was unable to control it remotely and obtain all the necessary information about the project data. It is necessary to replace it with a device that supports the RS232 interface and newer mobile technologies and that allows remote control and data reading. However, it does come with challenges such as higher costs, complexities associated with technology migration and loss of convenience due to the need for specialized expertise. But if there's one thing we know, it's that there is no situation without a way out.
Orange Belgium: Orange Belgium will start switching off the 2024G network in January 3. This will happen step by step: so that in the course of 2025, 3G will be completely switched off on the entire Belgian territory. More information.
Proximity: Proximus has decided to discontinue services on its 3G network by the end of 2024 and to fully focus on newer generations of mobile network technology, which are more efficient and energy efficient. More information.
Telenet/Base: Telenet/BASE announces that in two years, from September 2024, it will switch off the 3G signal on its mobile network. More information.
Because the phasing out of 2G and 3G is a fact, it is very important to prepare your migration. As IoT connectivity & 4G/5G hardware experts, we can help you with this transition. Our experts can help you select the right device & IoT SIM, supply, configure and even avail replacement and installation services to give you future-proof LTE connectivity that's ready for the future. Get in touch with our engineers at sales@comgate.io
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