The specificity of the LoRa network lies in its ability to meet the varied needs of territories and industries. Its long range and low energy consumption make it an ideal solution for Internet of Things (IoT) use cases. Whether for monitoring resources, improving public and private services or supporting the ecological transition, the LoRa network is at the heart of IoT strategies.
LoRaWAN coverage and the LoRa network: the basics
LoRa (Long Range) is a radio modulation technology developed by Cycleo, a Grenoble-based company acquired by Semtech in 2012. It enables data transmission over long distances with minimal energy consumption, making it ideal for connecting objects in complex environments, such as rural or dense urban areas.
LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network) is a network communication protocol operating over a low-power wide area network (LPWAN). It defines the rules enabling devices to communicate with application servers via gateways using LoRa technology. The LoRaWAN architecture is hierarchical, with end devices (sensors or actuators) collecting and transmitting data.
These devices communicate via gateways acting as relays between the devices and the network server. Network servers manage security and data routing, while application servers host and process the information received.
This star structure enables efficient bidirectional communication between devices and applications, while optimizing energy consumption.
The advantages of LPWAN
The technology stands out for its ability to cover vast geographical areas, with a range of up to 15 km in rural areas and several kilometers in urban areas. Its low energy consumption means that devices can operate for several years on a single battery (depending on the frequency of data feedback), thanks to optimized battery management and extended device autonomy.
Reduced costs are another significant advantage, with lower infrastructure and operating costs than traditional cellular networks. The flexibility of the network means that public or private solutions can be deployed according to the specific needs of use cases, offering remarkable adaptability.
One of LoRa’s main assets is its ability to resist interference, a common problem in environments connected with other protocols. It therefore guarantees reliable communication, even in contexts where many devices are in constant communication.
Advanced features and security thanks to data encryption also enhance its appeal for organizations concerned with data governance and confidentiality.
Discover the difference between the two LPWAN networks: LoRa and Sigfox.
Simplified implementation
The flexibility of the LoRa network makes it easy to deploy. It can be configured to run on a private network, entirely managed by an organization, or on a public network, such as that of Montpellier Métropole. This adaptability makes it possible to meet the specific needs of each project, whether managing an industrial park or an entire city.
Gateways: the nerve centers of the LoRa network
LoRa gateways play an essential role in network operation. They act as gateways between IoT sensors and data analysis and supervision platforms. They transform the raw data collected by sensors into readable, usable information.
This approach enables organizations to leverage data to improve their processes and respond effectively to their users’ needs.
“Our aim is obviously to make data digestible and useful. To achieve this, we need to make users want to use it, to see the benefits and opportunities. They have very specific missions in terms of steering and resource management, so they can immediately see which solution to adopt. IoT equipment is capable of collecting millions of pieces of data a day, but we’re here to offer a simplified and enlightened reading of this data.”
Teddy Menin, Product Owner of the SoM2M#IoT and SoDATA#Viz platforms at Synox.
A variety of use cases
The digital transition of today’s business sectors is essential to meet social and environmental challenges.
The deployment of networked connected objects in a variety of environments is becoming essential.
The LoRa network represents a high-performance technological solution, particularly suited to white zones and applications requiring external data collection, such as connected agriculture and green space management.
A network tailored to the needs of a changing region
Visit coverage of the LoRA network coverage in rural areas makes it an ideal solution for communities, industries and even agricultural companies wishing to monitor installations over vast territories.
Remote meter reading
The water meter reading requires precise data monitoring, but a low flow rate is sufficient (for reasons of battery autonomy). This innovation makes it possible to significantly reduce wastage of resources: leak detection can reduce consumption by housing occupants and ensure network quality for the water authority. This is the solution implemented by the Metropole de Montpellier in collaboration with Synoxteams, deploying over 40 antennas and +7000 sensors.
Monitoring air quality (IAQ)
Similarly, environmental monitoring devices equipped with LoRa sensors provide real-time data on outdoor air quality for school playgrounds, enabling local authorities to respond with urban planning adapted to a healthier environmental policy.
Waste management
Waste management is another area where LoRa is making a difference. Thanks to sensors installed in Refuse Collection Points (PAV), it is now possible to monitor their filling levels in real time. This information can be used to optimize collection rounds, thereby reducing operating costs and the environmental impact of dumpster truck movements.
Coupled with a vehicle telematics solutionthe optimization of waste management is complete!
Let us guide you!
LoRaWAN network coverage
LoRaWAN coverage depends on a number of factors and can vary depending on the environment.
LoRaWAN networks cover 30,000 communes and 95% of the French population in mainland France. Leur couverture peut être renforcée, notamment en zones rurales ou dans des environnements complexes (sous-sols, hangars), grâce à des antennes miniatures. Le LoRaWAN se distingue par sa capacité à déployer des réseaux IoT privés, sans opérateurs, pour une maîtrise totale des données. Il offre aussi des solutions hybrides, combinant la flexibilité des réseaux privés à la qualité de service des opérateurs nationaux, pour répondre à des besoins spécifiques.
A number of complex factors can affect the effective range of LoRaWAN. Topography plays a crucial role, with mountains, hills and other reliefs limiting the propagation of radio waves. In urban environments, the density of buildings and structures can considerably attenuate the signal, reducing range. Interference from other radio signals is a further challenge, as is the configuration and orientation of antennas and gateways.
To further maximize coverage, professionals develop sophisticated strategies. Optimal placement of gateways is essential, requiring careful analysis of territories to maximize reach and minimize shadow zones. The combined use of public and private networks offers additional flexibility in the deployment of LoRaWAN solutions.
The end of Objenious’ LoRa network
The Objenious network, operated by Bouygues Telecom in December 2024, has left many organizations uncertain about the continuity of their IoT connectivity.
Migration options
Synox offers two solutions to support this transition:
- Migration to the Orange LoRa networkA robust alternative for companies seeking extensive, reliable LoRaWAN coverage.
- Switching to the Netmore network (which acquired Objenious)network, particularly suited to organizations needing local control of their operations.
Reducing impact
This migration requires a meticulous analysis of existing infrastructures to avoid any interruption in services. Synox supports its customers in this transition by offering a complete diagnosis and adapting equipment if necessary.
To find out more, watch the explanatory video by Jérôme FenwickCTO of Synox.
Our vision
Every piece of data collected via a LoRa network becomes an opportunity to create value, whether to improve public services, reduce costs or support ambitious environmental objectives.
With a personalized approach, Synox supports its customers in implementing solutions tailored to their specific needs. Whether you’re a local authority, an industrial company or a start-up, we can help you turn your ideas into concrete projects, thanks to the following services high-performance, sustainable LoRa networks.
Would you like to find out more about deploying a LoRa network or discover its potential for your IoT project?
Together, we can turn your data into opportunities!