Security Features of LTE-M and NB-IoT
Mobile operators are continuously striving to enhance security measures for their Mobile IoT clients. By leveraging the inherent security built into mobile networks using 3GPP standards, operators can provide highly secure connectivity for both consumers and businesses. Key security features of LTE-M and NB-IoT networks include SIM cards, VPN and APN, Data Over NAS (DoNAS), and Non-IP Data Delivery (NIDD).
SIM Cards
SIM cards play a critical role in securing cellular connections:
Storage of Security Certificates and Passwords: As chips capable of storing data, SIM cards can hold specific security certificates and passwords, enhancing connection security.
Unalterable Identification Number (ICCID): The ICCID, stored in read-only memory, cannot be changed or altered. This feature helps providers identify and block cloned SIM cards.
VPN and APN
Mobile operators employ VPN and APN technologies to ensure data encryption and secure connections:
Encrypted Connections: Mobile carriers can provide and manage secure connections using virtual private networks (VPNs) and encrypted Internet connections, even when data travels across less secure environments.
Private Access Point Names (APNs): Secure, private APNs dedicated to a single client help keep data connections separate from other traffic, enhancing security.
Data Over NAS (DoNAS)
DoNAS offers enhanced security and functionality for transferring data within signaling messages:
Encapsulation of Data in NAS Signaling: DoNAS transfers data via the Mobility Management Entity (MME), enabling the transport of both IP and non-IP traffic.
Encryption and Integrity Protection: DoNAS ensures customer data is encrypted and integrity safeguarded using the same technique that protects network signaling, providing equal levels of security.
Non-IP Data Delivery (NIDD)
NIDD allows efficient communication between IoT devices and enterprise applications, benefiting applications that handle small amounts of data regularly:
Reduced Overhead: NIDD eliminates the tens of bytes of overhead required by IP and upper-layer protocols such as TCP or UDP, enabling data transfers of up to 1500 bytes in a single transfer.
Administrative Efficiency: By eliminating the need to maintain pools of static IP addresses for devices, NIDD helps reduce administrative overhead.
The security features of LTE-M and NB-IoT networks, such as SIM cards, VPN and APN, Data Over NAS (DoNAS), and Non-IP Data Delivery (NIDD), enable mobile operators to provide highly secure connectivity for their clients. These advanced security measures ensure that both consumers and businesses can trust the integrity and protection of their data when using LTE-M and NB-IoT networks.