What is GSM?

GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) refers to the technology behind 2G networks.

GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) refers to the technology behind 2G networks. Up until recently, this was the network technology of choice for businesses to deploy their IoT and M2M devices. However, with 2G due to be switched off (sunsetting) in many countries over the coming years, we are now witnessing the deployment of the last generation of devices to rely on this standard.

GSM is the standard behind the Second Generation (2G) of wireless telephone technology. First launched in Finland in 1991, it quickly became the world’s standard network technology, delivering fast, secure wireless connections.

GSM marked the switch from analogue to digital mobile telecoms. It was the first platform to accommodate data services (SMS and MMS) across mobile. Security was the other big factor in its favour. With the previous 1G networks, it was easy to hack communications through radio scanners. GSM encrypted data and calls, so only the intended recipient of a communication could receive or read it.

Over time, new cellular networks (3G, 4G and 5G have emerged to deliver the greater bandwidth and higher upload/download speeds demanded by mobile users and device manufacturers.

Coverage

For the time being at least, 2G is widespread across the globe, operating on a harmonised frequency spectrum. This is good news for any business seeking to build a global presence. It means that your connected devices can be put to work across multiple different geographical markets, with little or no adaptation required for different areas.

Cost-effectiveness

If something works already, why change it? With most IoT initiatives, you do not need to send vast amounts of data to and from devices. You simply need a suitable, low-cost platform that covers the area in which you intend to operate. GSM-based networks tend to meet these basic criteria. With later-generation technologies, there is the risk of needlessly paying for capabilities that your business does not require.

Bandwidth

2G bandwidth maxes out at 64 kbps. With 5G, it is 1Gbps and higher: i.e. 15 times greater. Normally, bandwidth is not the only – or indeed, primary – consideration for choice of IoT network. But it can be crucial. For example, if you want to incorporate the transmission of video footage into upcoming projects, 2G’s low bandwidth makes this impossible.

2G sunsetting

There is finite space on the radio frequency (RF) spectrum. To make room for more advanced networks, operators are already phasing out their 2G and 3G networks. U.S. operators, AT&T and Verizon have already shut down their 2G networks. In Europe, the trend seems to be for 3G networks to be decommissioned first, leaving 2G as a fallback for the time being.

GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) refers to the technology behind 2G networks.

What is GSM?

What is GSM?

GSM is the standard behind the Second Generation (2G) of wireless telephone technology. First launched in Finland in 1991, it quickly became the world’s standard network technology, delivering fast, secure wireless connections.

The benefits of GSM

The disadvantages of GSM

IoT. It's not complicated with Wireless Logic.

Design and deploy a future-proof IoT solution that scales with your business.