Internet of Things (IoT) Practice Exam

Which protocol is ideal for low-power communication of IoT devices over several kilometers?

1. Bluetooth

2. Zigbee

3. LoRaWAN

4. 4G

The correct answer is: LoRaWAN

The ideal protocol for low-power communication of IoT devices over several kilometers is LoRaWAN. This protocol is specifically designed for long-range, low-power applications, making it highly suitable for IoT deployments that require devices to communicate over significant distances while conserving battery life. LoRaWAN operates in the sub-gigahertz frequency bands, allowing it to cover several kilometers in urban areas and even more in rural settings. It achieves this long-range capability through a combination of sophisticated modulation techniques and the use of spread-spectrum technology, which helps it maintain connections over great distances while consuming minimal power. This means that IoT devices using LoRaWAN can be deployed in remote locations and can run for years on small batteries without needing frequent recharging. While other protocols like Bluetooth and Zigbee are effective for short-range communication and are also low-power, they typically operate within limited distances (tens to hundreds of meters) and do not cater to expansive coverage required for certain IoT applications. Similarly, 4G technology supports broader coverage but is designed for higher data rates and power consumption, making it less ideal for low-power IoT needs. Therefore, LoRaWAN stands out as the best fit for the specified requirements.