Comparison of Internet of Things (IoT) networks

Wi-SUN (Wireless Smart Utility Network), LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network) and NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT) are three distinct wireless communication technologies that are commonly used in IoT (Internet of Things) applications. There are some key differences between them:

1. Technology and Protocol: Wi-SUN is based on the IEEE 802.15.4g standard and operates in the sub-GHz frequency bands (e.g., 868 MHz in Europe, 915 MHz in the US). It is designed for large-scale outdoor networks, especially in smart utility applications. LoRaWAN is based on the LoRa modulation technique uses chirp spread spectrum modulation to achieve long-range communication and operates in sub-GHz frequency bands (e.g., 868 MHz in Europe, 915 MHz in the US). NB-IoT is a Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) technology standardized by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) as part of the LTE ecosystem. NB-IoT operates in licensed spectrum bands allocated by cellular operators, providing reliable and secure communication for a wide range of IoT applications.
2. Topology: Wi-SUN networks often use a mesh topology where devices (nodes) can communicate with each other directly or through intermediate nodes (routers). Wi-SUN mesh networks are self-healing, meaning that if a node fails, data can be rerouted through alternative paths to ensure continuous connectivity. This helps in extending the network coverage and improving reliability. LoRaWAN typically uses a star-of-stars network topology, where end devices communicate with gateways. NB-IoT operates within existing cellular networks, utilizing the cellular infrastructure’s topology, which typically consists of a core network, radio access network, and base stations.
3. Modulation Technique: Wi-SUN uses FSK and OFDM modulation. LoRaWAN uses LoRa (Long Range) modulation. NB-IoT uses narrowband modulation for efficient use of spectrum.
4. Range: Wi-SUN offers good range suitable for outdoor deployments up to 10 kilometers in mesh network. LoRaWAN can achieve communication ranges of 2-3 kilometers (urban) and 12 kilometers (suburban). NB-IoT communication range is typically shorter compared to Wi-SUN and LoRaWAN, but it offers better coverage and reliability in urban and indoor environments. In urban areas, it can achieve communication ranges of up to a few hundred meters to a few kilometers.
5. Data Rate: Wi-SUN supports higher data rates (up to 300 Kbps) compared to LoRaWAN and NB-IoT, suitable for applications requiring faster data transmission. LoRaWAN offers lower data rates (up to 20 Kbps) but with longer range and better penetration capabilities. NB-IoT provides higher data rates than LoRaWAN, up to 60 Kbps in class NB1 and up to 158 Kbps in class NB2.
6. Payload Message Size: Wi-SUN supports IPv6 communication, which allows for larger payload sizes compared to some other IoT technologies, making it suitable for applications that require the transmission of larger data packets. LoRaWAN has limitations on payload message size to ensure efficient use of the radio spectrum and optimize battery life. The maximum payload size in LoRaWAN is typically limited to 100 bytes. LoRaWAN’s small payload size makes it ideal for applications that require small, periodic data transmissions such as sensor data or status updates. NB-IoT typically supports larger payload sizes compared to LoRaWAN, allowing for more data to be transmitted in a single message.
7. Power Consumption: Wi-SUN: The Wi-SUN FAN 1.1 profile includes mechanisms for devices to operate in low-power modes. This helps extend battery life and reduce overall power consumption. LoRaWAN: Known for its low power consumption, enabling long battery life for IoT devices. NB-IoT: Designed for low power consumption, allowing IoT devices to operate on battery power for years without frequent recharging or replacement.
8. Security: Wi-SUN uses AES-128 encryption for secure communication between devices and gateways. Wi-SUN also supports secure key management protocols to ensure that encryption keys are securely exchanged and stored. Wi-SUN networks typically implement secure authentication mechanisms to verify the identity of devices connecting to the network. LoRaWAN uses end-to-end AES-128 encryption to secure communication between devices and network servers. LoRaWAN also supports secure join procedures to authenticate devices joining the network and prevent unauthorized access. NB-IoT networks implement encryption and authentication mechanisms based on the LTE standard to secure communication. NB-IoT networks benefit from the security measures implemented by cellular operators, including network firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
9. Applications: Wi-SUN designed for frequent communications of up to 10 seconds, commonly used in smart utility applications,  industrial applications, and smart cities. LoRaWAN designed for infrequent communications up to 128 seconds, widely used in various IoT applications, including smart agriculture, asset tracking, and environmental monitoring. NB-IoT designed for infrequent communications with communication times of over 600 seconds, Ideal for applications requiring deep indoor coverage, such as smart meters, smart cities, and healthcare monitoring.

In summary, Wi-SUN, LoRaWAN, and NB-IoT each have unique characteristics suited for different IoT use cases and deployment scenarios. The choice between these technologies would depend on factors such as range requirements, data rate needs, power consumption constraints and the specific application requirements.

Author: Mojtaba Saeedi