Understanding the Limits of LoRaWAN

2017/01/01 by Ferrán Adelantado, Ferran Adelantado, Xavier Vilajosana +6 · 21 citations
Computer Science · Engineering · #Energy Harvesting in Wireless Networks #IoT Networks and Protocols #IoT and Edge/Fog Computing

paper · doi:10.1109/mcom.2017.1600613

openalex publication_date 2017/01/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28

Abstract

Low-power wide area networking technology offers long-range communication, which enables new types of services. Several solutions exist; LoRaWAN is arguably the most adopted. It promises ubiquitous connectivity in outdoor IoT applications, while keeping network structures and management simple. This technology has received a lot of attention in recent months from network operators and solution providers. However, the technology has limitations that need to be clearly understood to avoid inflated expectations and disillusionment. This article provides an impartial and fair overview of the capabilities and limitations of LoRaWAN. We discuss those in the context of use cases, and list open research and development questions.

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