What Is LoRaWAN?
The LoRaWAN® specification is a Low Power, Wide Area (LPWA) networking protocol designed to wirelessly connect battery operated ‘things’ to the internet in regional, national or global networks, and targets key Internet of Things (IoT) requirements such as bi-directional communication, end-to-end security, mobility and localization services.

Benefits of Using LoRaWAN Sensors for IoT Applications

Unlicensed frequency bands
LoRaWAN operates on unlicensed radio frequency bands, allowing free and open communication.

Deployment
LoRaWAN sensors are wireless, battery-powered, and simple to install, requiring minimal infrastructure. Their long-range connectivity and quick setup make them ideal for fast, cost-effective IoT deployments, even in remote areas.

Cost-effective
LoRaWAN sensors are highly cost-effective due to their low power usage, long battery life, and minimal infrastructure needs. Operating on unlicensed frequency bands also eliminates licensing fees, making them ideal for affordable, large-scale IoT solutions.

Wide coverage range
LoRaWAN sensors are ideal for large, complex industrial environments like indoor facilities, factories, petrochemical plants, and off-shore platforms; especially those with heavy metal infrastructure that typically blocks signals. Their ability to maintain strong connectivity across long distances and through dense structures makes them well-suited for upstream oil and gas operations and remote installations like water monitoring sites. Fewer gateways are needed, reducing both deployment complexity and cost while ensuring reliable data transmission across challenging, expansive areas.

Low bandwidth
LoRaWAN is optimized for transmitting small amounts of data, making it ideal for low-bandwidth IoT applications. This efficient use of network resources reduces power consumption and extends battery life, while still ensuring reliable data transmission.

Easy
LoRaWAN sensors offer a plug-and-play experience with easy installation, long battery life, and minimal maintenance. Their wireless design and wide coverage make them convenient for deploying in various environments without complex setup or frequent upkeep.

Long battery life
This specification consumes less power than most networks, meaning it has exceptionally long battery life. When you use IoT devices on a LoRaWAN system, you can expect their batteries to last for years before they require charging or changing.

LoRaWAN Sensors Network Architecture
LoRaWAN® network architecture is deployed in a star-of-stars topology in which gateways relay messages between end-devices and a central network server. The gateways are connected to the network server via standard IP connections and act as a transparent bridge, simply converting RF packets to IP packets and vice versa. The wireless communication takes advantage of the Long Range characteristics of the LoRa physical layer, allowing a single-hop link between the end-device and one or many gateways. All modes are capable of bi-directional communication, and there is support for multicast addressing groups to make efficient use of spectrum during tasks such as Firmware Over-The-Air (FOTA) upgrades or other mass distribution messages.
FAQs
What is LoRaWAN®?
The LoRaWAN® specification is a Low Power, Wide Area (LPWA) networking protocol designed to wirelessly connect battery operated ‘things’ to the internet in regional, national or global networks, and targets key Internet of Things (IoT) requirements such as bi-directional communication, end-to-end security, mobility and localization services.
Why use the SiteSync Edge gateway?
The SiteSync Edge gateway is preloaded and preconfigured with Ignition Edge software. It allows for out of the box connectivity to LoRaWAN sensors and the SiteSync cloud.
Does this system have to connect to the internet?
No, the SiteSync Edge is the only solution on the market that does not require connection to the internet to bring data from LoRaWAN sensors into a control system or on-premise graphical interface. Pair this system with sensors that do not require internet connection for a seamless and secure LoRaWAN network.
Does my sensor connect?
The SiteSync Edge gateway connects to a variety of sensors including Yokogawa Sushi Sensors, VEGAPULS Air sensors, RadioBridge, and VolleyBoast.
What range can LoRaWAN® cover?
LoRaWAN offers long range, wide area networking with a 10-mile outdoor range and 1 to 3-mile range into buildings. It can wirelessly connect sensors up to 10 miles away to a gateway.