The global 3G sunset and its effect on IoT connectivity
#2025, #3g, #3gshutdown, #connectivity
As 3G networks are shutting down worldwide, industrial businesses face a pivotal moment. Whether operating smart infrastructure, remote device management systems, or basic M2M devices, transitioning from legacy IoT connectivity is imperative. This article delves into the global 3G cellular network shutdown timeline, its effects on industrial applications, and optimal adaptation strategies, including a search of the best 5G network router, emerging cost-effective alternatives like RedCap and future-ready routers like RUTM56.
3G SHUTDOWN GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE
Globally, 3G network discontinuity is moving forward and many countries have plans to shut it down by 2027, most major North American operators have already completed 3G shutdown.
North America: AT&T 3G shutdown, Verizon and T-Mobile 3G connection have discontinued in February 2022.
Australia: Telsta and Optus shut down their 3G operations fully in 2022.
Europe: Majority of European countries plans to completely shut down 3G networks by the end of 2025, nations like Germany, Hungary, Greece have already phased it out.
Asia: India is steadily cutting back on services, with complete shutdowns anticipated by the end of 2025, while Japan's 3G shutdown happened in 2022 and Singapore phased out 3G in 2024 of July.
Africa: South Africa has been progressively planning on shutting down 3G by the start of July 2025, in a meantime, other African countries regions are trying to slow down the “sunset”.
South America: Local providers such as Telefonica, Entel and Claro in some of the regions have already shut down 3G in 2022 and 2023.
Middle East: Oman has been shutting down 3G networks since July 2024, while Zain Bahrain service provider switched off its 3G network in 4Q 2022 in countries like Kuwait, Iran and Jordan.
Because of its wide coverage and durability, 3G network is still used by many industrial networks in spite of these developments. Numerous IoT connectivity devices, including telemetry units and data loggers, are using 3G cellular networks in industries like energy, utilities, and transportation. But problems like more downtime, inconsistent performance, and higher security risks are appearing as carriers cut maintenance and 3G networks shutting down.
THE ROLE OF 2G: STILL A FUNCTIONAL SOLUTION
2G networks frequently continue to function even when 3G is being phased out, particularly in locations where rural or underdeveloped areas have not yet been completely impacted by newer technology. It is appropriate for IoT connectivity such as smart meters, pipeline monitors, and vending machines due to their ease of use and minimal bandwidth needs.
The vast majority of European nations, as well as those in South America, the Middle East, and Thailand, intend to shut down 2G starting from 2025 all the way to 2030. North America, much of Asia, and a few regions of South America, Africa, and the Caribbean are all scheduled to have partial shutdowns. Australia has already fully shut down its 2G connection. While Africa is still heavily reliant on 2G and has no concrete plans to shut it down.
For example, mobile payment systems in parts of Africa still rely on 2G and shutting it off too soon could disrupt banking services. Early-generation vehicle telematics and emergency call (eCall) systems in cars were designed for 2G, so some networks remain operational to support those safety features.
However, as demand for the 5G network grows and LTE becomes more widespread, 2G shutting down is inevitable. Thus, relying on 2G network is a short-term fix rather than a sustainable strategy.
THE PATH FORWARD: ADAPTABILITY IS KEY
Adopting sustainable and future-proof solutions is essential as legacy networks deteriorate. Even though the best 5G network routers promise notable performance improvements, many industrial applications don't need all of their features.
5G RedCap, or Reduced Capability, is designed for mid-tier IoT connectivity use cases. Teltonika’s RUT271 and RUT976 routers offer data speeds from a few Mbps up to 223 Mbps. Their streamlined design supports wireless connections for up to 50 devices for RUT21 and up to 100 devices for RUT976, delivers low latency.
RedCap 5G connection is especially well-suited for uses like asset tracking, industrial automation, and smart city sensors.
A FUTURE-READY OPTION: TELTONIKA'S RUTM56
The RUTM56 router provides unmatched adaptability for individuals who value flexibility. As earlier technologies are phased out, its support for 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G guarantees future-proof IoT connectivity, ensuring seamless deployment across diverse applications.
Important characteristics include:
- Automatically switching between technologies to keep connected is known as seamless fallback.
- Advanced security includes firewall capabilities and a wide range of VPN choices.
- Remote device management system: Teltonika’s Remote Management System (RMS) is compatible not only with Teltonika's devices but also with third-party equipment connected to them, enabling centralised and effective supervision.
- Industrial-grade dependability: Made to survive challenging conditions.
Businesses can manage their infrastructure's critical moments by upgrading with the RUTM56. It is a single gadget dual modem router designed to bridge the gap between legacy and next-generation networks.
ACCEPTING THE CHANGES
Industrial processes that depend on 3G are at risk of becoming obsolete as the global 3G shutdown picks up speed. Proactive adaptation is crucial when using multi-network devices like the RUTM56, investigating the best 5G networks, or switching to 4G.
Get your network ready for the changing terrain of the future, not just for the here and now. Make sure your operations stay resilient and connected using Teltonika's solutions by clicking on "Contact us" button and discussing your options.
