Understanding the Impact of 5G on Industrial IoT Development and Applications

Within the industrial sector, 5G IoT technology offers an infrastructure characterized by enhanced speed, increased bandwidth, and reduced latency. This network capability is particularly relevant for IoT applications where the efficient and secure transmission of data across a complex network of devices is necessary for operational effectiveness.

5G's network slicing feature is of specific interest in this context. It allows for the segmentation of the network into distinct virtual sections. This segmentation facilitates the allocation of network resources tailored to the unique demands of various IoT applications—from those requiring minimal data transfer at lower costs to high-performance applications that demand significant bandwidth and speed.

5G IoT: Routers vs Gateways 

Gateways in a 5G IoT environment translate communication between different networks, which is necessary for integrating the legacy protocols used in industrial systems with modern IoT technologies. In essence, gateways act as the bridge between the old and the new, ensuring seamless communication across diverse devices and platforms within the industrial landscape. They enable the interconnectivity of various systems and devices regardless of their native protocols, thereby facilitating a unified, efficient IoT ecosystem.

Routers, on the other hand, go a step further by working at the network layer to make data routing decisions. 5G Routers ensure that data travels efficiently across networks, thus supporting the high-speed, reliable communication that 5G promises. They work on LANs or WANs with dynamically updated routing tables and provide network access in remote or challenging industrial environments where traditional wired connections may be impractical or unavailable.

5G IoT Applications in Practice

5G allows industrial companies to create new types of applications that can optimize operations and enhance efficiency across their entire value chains.

1. Digital twinning: Creating a virtual twin to simulate real-world systems or processes enables optimization and testing without physical intervention. Industrial companies that leverage this application can improve product designs and time to market via simulation-driven performance predictions.
2. Real-time analytics: From monitoring machine performance on the shop floor to tracking supply chain movements, 5G IoT enables the capture and analysis of data in real time. This helps to inform decision-making, streamline operations, and ultimately improve the business’s agility.
3. Autonomous control: Thanks to 5G’s low-latency connectivity, industrial devices can communicate and operate with near-instantaneous response times, allowing for the implementation of autonomous systems. This not only enhances production efficiency but also reduces the margin for error, leading to higher-quality outputs and safer working environments.
4. Predictive maintenance: Leveraging the vast amounts of data generated by 5G IoT devices, predictive maintenance algorithms can forecast equipment failures before they occur — minimizing unplanned downtime, extending the lifespan of machinery, and optimizing maintenance schedules.

Adopting 5G IoT: Three Key Considerations

The 5G IoT solution your industrial company needs largely depends on your specific operational requirements and the unique challenges of your industry.

1. Network infrastructure readiness: Ensure your current network can support the increased bandwidth and lower latency 5G offers. Upgrading routers, switches, and other network components may be necessary to handle the resulting data volumes and speed. Additionally, assessing wireless coverage and the potential need for 5G repeaters or extenders in areas with weak signal strength is necessary for maintaining robust connectivity across your operational footprint.
2. Security and privacy: Consider solutions that incorporate enterprise-grade security features to protect your network and data. Integrated advanced encryption standards, such as those provided by 5G routers and gateways like the Perle IRG7440, are a necessary safeguard. These devices offer high-speed OpenVPN, IP Security (IPsec), Triple Data Encryption Standard (3DES), and Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) for data privacy over the Internet. Additionally, an integrated Zone-Based Policy Firewall protects internal networks from unauthorized access while supporting network segmentation into distinct virtual sections for different IoT applications.
3. Deployment and maintenance: Consider installation compatibility and potential for scalability. Specifically, Perle IRG Routers offer features conducive to remote management, including a web-based server configuration tool for straightforward setup and a cloud-based platform for centralized oversight. These capabilities facilitate direct, secure management of network and IT infrastructure from any location to optimize efficient network configuration and troubleshooting.

Our enterprise-grade industrial 5G routers are designed to meet the rigorous, evolving demands of the industrial 5G IoT landscape. With certifications for worldwide cellular band operation, advanced security features, and no annual fees for an extensive feature set, our 5G routers are a core device for your connectivity needs.

Whether for primary connectivity or as a failover solution, the IRG7440 supports a wide range of industrial applications, from building and process automation to remote monitoring and fleet management. With high-performance components, rugged environment certifications, and low-power-consumption design, these routers are equipped to handle the challenges of deployment in demanding industrial settings.

Learn more about how Perle IRG7000 5G routers can enhance your industrial operations and prepare your network infrastructure for the future.