Why cellular IoT is the best option for safety and security applications

From cameras, trackers and alarm panels to movement, temperature and vibration sensors, the Internet of Things (IoT) can do much to safeguard your staff, goods and assets, but choosing the right connectivity is vital.

Cellular provides the always-on connectivity safety umbrella you need to keep people, places, and property secure anywhere and at any time. While cellular networks are often considered best for outdoor use and fixed infrastructure for indoor spaces, local configurations can be easily changed.

Many projects opt for a different configuration, often due to the need for rapid deployment, a requirement for moveable sensors, or as an additional layer of backup connectivity. And, unlike other networks, cellular remains stable and unaffected by changes made by building operators or IT departments, ensuring a consistent safety envelope wherever you are.

Even in indoor spaces with readily available communication infrastructure, cellular connectivity can still provide vital backup for mission-critical alarm systems during power outages. Furthermore, the end-to-end encryption and multi-factor authentication used by cellular networks offers an additional layer of security and access control to protect internal communication networks.

Lone worker security

For people, commodities and equipment on the move or operating in outdoor or remote locations, IoT-enabled security applications in these scenarios require the reach, flexibility, security and simplicity of set up that only ubiquitous cellular connectivity offers. Cellular-connected handheld or body worn IoT devices with push-to-talk, GPS, fall detection and red-button alert functions can do much to protect individuals working in hazardous and often remote locations like mining, drilling or construction sites.

Body worn cameras connected to a cellular network can also enhance the safety of security personnel, home visitors and delivery workers at risk of theft, violence or aggressive behaviour while they’re out and about.

Protecting goods in transit

Cellular technology is used for tracking goods during transit by integrating telematics, cameras, emergency communications, and cargo monitoring. A unified network allows centralised control centres to monitor and manage items such as perishables, perfumes, and precious metals.

Thermal sensors also enable preventative action to .

Securing outdoor and remote sites

Cellular IoT has many advantages for protecting assets and people in outdoor or remote areas, from smart cities and construction sites to and sporting events. Applications range from theft-preventing trackers and wind-speed sensors for , to and surveillance for crowd management.

What’s more, LPWA or low-power wide-area cellular technologies – like NB-IoT, LTE-M – can keep sensors and trackers connected even in areas with limited coverage, while Mobile Private Networks can provide dedicated connectivity for devices requiring higher bandwidth like cameras and drones. In extremely remote locations, satellite IoT connectivity can bridge the gap using Vodafone IoT’s Global SIM, which is capable of operating across both cellular and satellite networks.

From supporting lone workers and safeguarding goods in transit to securing outdoor and remote sites or providing essential backup for other connectivity solutions, cellular networks deliver unmatched flexibility, reach, and security.