What is a fixed IP SIM card?
A fixed IP SIM card is provisioned with its own unique IP address, so every time a device equipped with a fixed IP SIM connects to a network, its address remains the same. For businesses, this approach helps to ensure devices are always reachable helping you achieve better visibility and control over your IoT devices.
Read on to discover more about the potential benefits of fixed IP SIM cards and how this technology is successfully applied.
What are fixed IP SIM cards?
The internet and local networks need a way to differentiate between different devices. Each device requires its own IP (Internet Protocol) address: a unique identifier for a piece of connected hardware.
Most mobile devices use dynamic IP addresses. Under this system, every time a device attempts to make a connection, the relevant ISP (Internet Service Provider) or enterprise network assigns the device with the next available IP address through a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). This means that the device’s IP address changes session by session.
By contrast, a fixed (aka ‘static’) IP address does not change. A fixed IP SIM card is provisioned with its own unique IP address. Every time a device with a fixed IP SIM card connects to a network, it uses the same address.
The types of fixed IP SIM card
There are two main categories of fixed IP SIM cards: public and private.
Fixed Public IP SIM card
With this type of SIM, the address is hosted in the public domain so it can be accessed over the internet. This model can be beneficial where you want to enable access to your connected devices from other devices or terminals. One example is CCTV, particularly if you want users to be able to view camera footage from any connected endpoint in real-time.
Fixed Private IP SIM card
The IP address is only visible within your own enterprise network, making this a more secure option in cases where you intend for devices to communicate with each other or with other enterprise systems across a private, internal network. In situations where you want the ability to remotely access connected devices over the public internet, it would be sensible to supplement the use of a fixed private IP address with a secure VPN (virtual private network).
What are the benefits of a fixed IP SIM card?
IoT device management
A fixed IP address can be used as an identifier. With large numbers of IoT devices in play, fixed IP SIM cards mean that you always know the correct address for a specific device. You can access individual devices at their address quickly and easily whenever you need.
Visibility and coverage
When your devices are assigned with static addresses, they can be reached easily and swiftly from virtually anywhere in the world using a public internet connection. This helps to ensure visibility and control, even when your IoT initiatives are scaled globally. Private IP addresses are more secure than Public IP Addresses.
Quicker responses and cost savings
Because a fixed IP SIM is assigned a permanent IP address, it becomes easier for a device to maintain a reliable, direct connection with another device. This can be especially valuable in most IoT solutions, as data can be relayed to and from equipment with a reduced need for human intervention. This enables businesses to make data-driven interventions more promptly and cheaply, while also reducing the need for on-site engineers.
Fixed IP SIM applications
Common use cases for fixed IP SIM cards include the following:
Transport and logistics
Fixed IP SIMs are frequently deployed to maintain real-time visibility across fleets and assets in transit. Applications include geo-tracking, ambient sensors to control temperature and humidity, and monitoring operational efficiency.
Retail
For automated point of sale (POS) systems, fixed IP SIM cards facilitate reliable, two-way communications to handle secure payment as well as tasks such as stock tracking and dynamic pricing adjustments.
Security monitoring
For wireless CCTV solutions, fixed IP SIMs make it easier for businesses to monitor and manage cameras over the internet, enabling users to live-stream and view footage from scattered locations.
Industrial and manufacturing
Especially valuable where connected equipment is deployed in difficult-to-access locations, fixed IP SIM cards are often used to establish a stable M2M (machine to machine) connection between devices and their controlling units. Examples include manufacturing plants, energy facilities (e.g. wind turbines), engineering projects and construction sites.
Condition Monitoring
The SIM can relay information to a data centre about the machinery, such as status, energy consumption and productivity.
Advanced robotics
As automation gathers pace, many businesses are exploring initiatives such as robots to move items around warehouses and manufacturing sites, and even autonomous vehicles. As a failsafe, it’s imperative to have an ultra-reliable connection between the robotic device and its control centre. A fixed IP SIM can provide this point-to-point connection, including the ability to rapidly transmit fresh instructions and emergency stop codes where necessary.
Find out more
For an expert assessment of your connectivity needs and to discover the best fit M2M options for your business, speak to Wireless Logic today.
To discover more about SIM card options and all other aspects of IoT connectivity, explore our glossary.