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Low power wide area network (LPWAN) is a wireless wide area network that is optimized for non-mission-critical applications in machine-to-machine (M2M) and Internet of Things (IoT) communications. LPWAN deployments benefit M2M and IoT applications in terms of extended coverage, low transmission rate, longer battery life, cost savings in operations, and lower pricing for network services. Leading LPWAN technologies include LoRaWAN®, Sigfox, RPMA® and Wi-SUN®.

Proprietary LPWANs typically operate in the license-free industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) bands and are hence less expensive on a per-connection basis than current mobile cellular and other licensed radio options. Latency is not the primary concern; hence long-range operation is feasible. However, they face strong competition from licensed LPWAN cellular-based technologies, since at the same time, the cellular industry is also developing standards to support M2M and IoT deployments in an efficient manner. Some of these technologies include narrowband (NB)-IoT and Long Term Evolution for Machine (LTE-M).

The Global LPWAN market is still at a growing stage; with network operators expanding public and private LPWAN networks across the globe. In certain cases, operators are conducting trials of unlicensed LPWAN integrated with alternative technologies such as satellites for extended coverage or roaming capabilities.