LoRaWAN

Long Range Wide Area Network

A networking protocol built on top of LoRa radio modulation technology. Think of LoRa as the language devices use to speak to each other over radio waves, while LoRaWAN is the set of rules that governs how these devices communicate within a network. Here’s what makes LoRaWAN particularly interesting:

The network architecture is surprisingly simple: end devices (like sensors) communicate with gateways using LoRa radio signals. These gateways, which you can think of as sophisticated routers, then connect to network servers using standard internet connectivity. One gateway can cover a large area – several kilometers in cities and even further in rural areas.

What sets LoRaWAN apart is its open nature. Unlike many competing technologies, it’s managed by the LoRa Alliance, a non-profit organization. This means anyone can set up their own LoRaWAN network – whether it’s a farmer monitoring soil conditions or a city managing street lights.

Security is built into its core. Every device has two unique encryption keys: one for the network and one for the application. This means even if someone intercepts the data, they can’t understand it.

The protocol is also quite clever in how it manages power. Devices spend most of their time sleeping and only wake up when they need to send data. The network automatically adjusts each device’s power output and data rate to use the minimum energy required for reliable communication.

• Abbreviation: LoRaWAN