What Is an IoT Cloud Platform?
IoT connectivity platforms are software solutions that enable Internet of Things (IoT) devices to connect, communicate, and exchange data over networks. These platforms handle the communication layer between the device and the cloud, abstracting the complexities of network protocols and infrastructure management.
Their main function is to ensure reliable and secure data transmission from distributed devices to centralized systems where the data can be processed and analyzed. They provide services such as device provisioning, network access management, data routing, protocol translation, and security enforcement.
Platforms often support multiple connectivity technologies including cellular (2G/3G/4G/5G), Wi-Fi, LoRaWAN, NB-IoT, and satellite, making it easier for organizations to manage diverse deployments across various environments. In addition to basic connectivity, many platforms offer tools for monitoring device status, managing firmware updates, and handling network diagnostics.
Editor’s note: Updated the article to cover recent IoT connectivity market trends, updated information about IoT connectivity platforms to reflect features and capabilities in 2026.
This is part of a series of articles about IoT Networking.
Why Connectivity Management Platform (CMPs) Matter More Than Ever
While traditional CMPs focused mainly on SIM lifecycle management and billing, the scope has broadened significantly. Today, CMPs are expected to support a wide spectrum of functions including advanced analytics, remote SIM provisioning (eSIM), integration with cloud services, and even core network capabilities.
Mobile network operators (MNOs) and mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) are under pressure to serve both high-value enterprise clients and massive volumes of low-margin IoT devices. As average revenue per connection continues to fall—sometimes to as low as $0.20 per year—CMPs must provide more functionality with lower overhead.
The market is undergoing a bifurcation. On one end, enterprises require platforms for managing mission-critical, high-bandwidth connections such as those in automotive or industrial use cases. On the other end, the need to support simple, low-data deployments at scale is pushing the adoption of lightweight, “thin” CMPs with simplified capabilities.
At the same time, dissatisfaction with incumbent CMP providers like Cisco and Ericsson has prompted many operators to reevaluate their strategies. Some are exploring multi-sourcing or transitioning entirely to more agile, cloud-native alternatives. Vendors that can offer end-to-end control, support for multi-country deployments, real-time diagnostics, and flexible commercial models are gaining traction.In this changing landscape, IoT Service Providers are emerging as critical partners, offering the agility and visibility that legacy CMPs often lack
IoT Connectivity Market Trends
According to recent market research, the global IoT connectivity market is valued at USD 10.22 billion. It is expected to grow to USD 59.87 billion by 2033, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.7%.
The rising global adoption of IoT devices is a primary factor behind market expansion. Organizations across sectors are deploying connected devices to improve efficiency and automate operations. This increases demand for scalable and reliable connectivity solutions.
Advancements in communication technologies also support market growth. Ongoing investment in communication R&D enables better performance and new connectivity models for IoT environments. In addition, the push for miniaturized electronics and the integration of edge computing and artificial intelligence create new opportunities for connectivity providers.
The expanding application scope of IoT devices across multiple industry verticals further accelerates demand. IoT is no longer limited to niche deployments and is becoming a core part of digital infrastructure.
However, the market is also experiencing some challenges:
- Interoperability remains a significant concern. Not all connectivity solutions are compatible with every IoT device or system. This lack of standardization can slow adoption and limit scalability.
- Data security is another major challenge. IoT connectivity solutions handle sensitive data, and inadequate security mechanisms can hinder market growth. Addressing these issues is critical for sustained expansion of the IoT connectivity market.
The Evolving Categories of CMPs
Thick CMPs
Thick CMPs offer deep integration with network functions, enabling granular control over device connectivity, provisioning, and real-time diagnostics. These platforms often act as virtual mobile network cores, giving operators visibility and control over data sessions, signaling, and subscriber identities.
Unlike thin CMPs that rely on third-party infrastructure, thick CMPs embed networking and policy engines into the platform itself. This enables sophisticated use cases such as inline security enforcement, multi-IMSI management, and regional breakouts.
1. floLIVE
floLIVE offers a holistic, cloud-native CMP-as-a-service that provides a centralized interface and a “single pane of glass” for customers. This platform is designed to manage connectivity, devices, data, and applications within an IoT ecosystem. It tightly integrated with core network and Business Support System (BSS) functionalities, offering advantages like reduced complexity, faster time-to-market, and streamlined operations.
The floLIVE CMP offers full visibility and ultimate control over global IoT deployments, enabling users to monitor devices, access real-time network events and usage, troubleshoot issues, and manage SIMs and connectivity from one place.
Key features of the floLIVE CMP include:
- Centralized Management and Single Pane of Glass for global visibility and control.
- Real-Time Monitoring and Alerts providing visibility into SIM status, location, usage, and network events.
- SIM Management throughout the lifecycle, including activation, suspension, profile changes, and support for Multi-Carrier SIMs and Multi-IMSI.
- Billing and Invoicing Management, integrated into the CMP, enabling management of billing activities, flexible models, and sub-account financial management.
- Usage Analytics and Reporting available through the portal or API.
- Troubleshooting Tools that consolidate information from the core network and billing to aid in quick problem resolution.
- Self-Care Function for enterprises to identify and resolve SIM issues.
- API Access (REST API suite) to extend functionality and integrate with external systems.
- eUICC Management and integration with RSP platforms.
- Custom APN management for enhanced security and control.
- White-labeling capabilities to customize the web portal appearance.
- Compliance and Regulatory Support.
- Security features including data encryption, threat detection, and secure VPN/firewalls.
- Steering Management allows users to create and manage Steering Trees.
- SMS Management supports sending, receiving, monitoring, and tracking SMS messages via the UI or API.
- VoLTE Capabilities Management integrated into the CMP for managing call preferences, billing, and reporting.
- Functions as a CMP Aggregator capable of managing multiple MNO eSIM and IMSI profiles from the single interface.
Supports a multi-tenant platform with a built-in hierarchical model.
2. Cisco IoT Control Center
Cisco IoT Control Center is a connectivity management platform to manage and monitor IoT devices and networks at scale. It enables enterprises and communications service providers to securely deploy, onboard, and manage large fleets of connected devices while aggregating telemetry data for cloud-based analysis.
Key features include:
- Device-to-cloud connectivity management: Enables secure communication between IoT devices and cloud platforms through automated configuration and connection setup.
- Centralized telemetry data aggregation: Consolidates data from distributed devices into a cloud-based environment for storage, processing, and analytics.
- Automated device onboarding: Supports zero-touch provisioning by automatically assigning credentials and enabling devices to connect securely once powered on.
- Secure authentication and encrypted communication: Uses SIM-based security features such as IoT SAFE and TLS encryption to protect device identities and data exchanges.
- Cloud integration for analytics and storage: Enables organizations to offload telemetry data to scalable cloud infrastructure for real-time analysis and long-term retention.
3. Ericsson Connectivity Management
Ericsson Connectivity Management is part of Ericsson’s IoT portfolio to support large-scale IoT deployments across global cellular networks. Built around Ericsson’s IoT Accelerator platform, it provides a cloud-based environment for managing IoT connectivity, device lifecycles, and operational processes. The platform enables enterprises and service providers to monitor connectivity status, manage subscriptions, and scale IoT services across regions.
Key features include:
- Cloud-based connectivity management: Provides a centralized platform for managing device connectivity, subscriptions, and operational workflows.
- Device lifecycle management: Supports monitoring, maintenance, and remote operation of IoT devices across deployment environments.
- eSIM and connectivity orchestration: Enables management of eSIM profiles and connectivity services across multiple networks.
- Global deployment support: Designed to help organizations develop and deploy IoT solutions across international markets using standardized infrastructure.
- Industrial and enterprise use case support: Enables IoT applications such as monitoring, logistics tracking, industrial automation, and worker safety.
Thin CMPs
Thin CMPs prioritize simplicity, low cost, and rapid scalability over deep network integration. These platforms typically focus on lifecycle management tasks such as SIM provisioning, basic usage analytics, and billing. They rely on underlying network infrastructure provided by external operators, limiting their ability to enforce real-time policies or diagnose packet-level issues.
However, their lightweight nature makes them ideal for massive IoT deployments with low ARPU, like smart meters or asset tracking, where minimizing operational complexity is essential. Thin CMPs are often used by MVNOs and new entrants seeking fast time-to-market with limited resources.
4. Comarch IoT Connect
Comarch IoT Connect is a connectivity management platform that enables telecom operators and enterprises to deliver and manage IoT connectivity services at scale. Built on a cloud-native architecture, the platform provides tools for managing the IoT service lifecycle, from SIM provisioning and connectivity control to billing, analytics, and partner ecosystem management.
Key features include:
- End-to-end IoT service management: Consolidates devices, SIMs, connectivity services, and operational processes into a single management platform.
- Flexible product catalog and service bundling: Allows operators to create service packages that combine connectivity, hardware, and applications.
- Real-time connectivity control: Supports monitoring and management of data, voice, and messaging services through integrated charging and policy control functions.
- Analytics and diagnostics tools: Provides monitoring dashboards, movement tracking, and usage analysis to support operational visibility and troubleshooting.
- Automation for large-scale deployments: Enables bulk provisioning, automated workflows, and rule-based lifecycle management for SIMs and devices.
5. Mavoco
Mavoco provides a connectivity management platform for mobile network operators (MNOs), mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs), and enterprises managing IoT deployments across multiple networks. The platform automates workflows related to connectivity services, SIM management, and billing operations. It can operate as a standalone IoT business support system (BSS) or integrate with existing OSS/BSS infrastructures to support global IoT connectivity services.
Key features include:
- SIM and subscription management: Enables automated management of SIM, eSIM, and multi-IMSI subscriptions across large device fleets.
- Flexible deployment architecture: Supports cloud, on-premises, and hybrid deployments depending on operational and regulatory requirements.
- Integration with telecom infrastructure: Integrates with existing OSS/BSS systems for billing, SIM procurement, and operational reporting.
- Centralized connectivity operations: Provides a unified interface for managing device connectivity across multiple networks and regions.
- Real-time billing and charging: Supports multi-party billing models and flexible pricing structures for IoT connectivity services.
Connectivity Abstraction Platforms
Connectivity abstraction platforms sit above one or more CMPs, harmonizing fragmented data and workflows across multiple carriers, geographies, and infrastructure providers. These platforms provide a unified interface for managing connectivity, regardless of the underlying technology or vendor.
By normalizing APIs, enforcing consistent policies, and offering cross-provider analytics, abstraction platforms reduce operational friction and help enterprises avoid vendor lock-in. They are particularly valuable in global deployments where no single CMP can provide complete coverage or meet diverse compliance requirements.
6. IoTM
IoTM provides a connectivity abstraction and orchestration platform to unify IoT connectivity management and eSIM lifecycle operations across multiple providers. Rather than replacing existing connectivity platforms, it integrates with them to simplify large-scale deployments and enable consistent management across networks. The platform supports automated onboarding, profile management, and operational workflows for enterprises managing IoT deployments.
Key features include:
- Unified connectivity and eSIM orchestration: Integrates connectivity management platforms and remote SIM provisioning systems within a single operational interface.
- eSIM fleet management: Supports large-scale actions across device fleets, including batch operations and profile lifecycle management.
- Automated onboarding and self-service operations: Simplifies device onboarding through automated workflows and a centralized management interface.
- Activation code lifecycle management: Enables organizations to upload, track, and manage activation codes for eSIM deployments.
- Standards-based architecture: Built on GSMA eIM APIs and supports specifications such as SGP.22 with planned support for SGP.32.
7. Simetric
Simetric provides a connectivity abstraction platform to unify IoT connectivity management across multiple carrier platforms and infrastructure environments. Instead of replacing existing CMPs, it aggregates data and workflows from different platforms into a single operational interface. This approach enables organizations to standardize processes, improve operational visibility, and automate connectivity operations across global deployments.
Key features include:
- Multi-CMP normalization and control: Integrates multiple carrier management platforms into a single management interface.
- Business process automation: Automates operational workflows, including approval processes, rate plan optimization, and anomaly detection.
- SIM and eSIM lifecycle management: Supports both individual and bulk management of SIM profiles, including inventory tracking and profile updates.
- Connectivity analytics and reporting: Provides usage reporting, cost analytics, and configurable alerts based on device activity.
- Device and network visibility: Offers monitoring of routers, edge devices, and network configurations through centralized dashboards.
Subscription Management Platforms (eSIM/RSP)
Subscription management platforms focus on the secure provisioning, activation, and management of eSIM and iSIM profiles. Built around GSMA specifications such as SGP.22 and SGP.32, these platforms enable remote SIM provisioning (RSP), allowing devices to change networks or update profiles without physical access.
Key features include bootstrap provisioning, profile lifecycle management, and support for both consumer and M2M use cases. These platforms often integrate with CMPs but serve a distinct role in decoupling connectivity from hardware.
8. Kigen
Kigen provides SIM, eSIM, and iSIM technologies to enable secure cellular connectivity for IoT devices. Its platform supports remote SIM provisioning and lifecycle management, allowing devices to dynamically download and manage network profiles without physical SIM replacement. Kigen’s solutions are designed for integration with device manufacturers, module vendors, and connectivity providers to support scalable global IoT deployments.
Key features include:
- eSIM and iSIM enablement: Provides GSMA-certified eSIM operating systems and integrated SIM technologies that reduce hardware footprint and power consumption.
- Remote SIM provisioning: Enables over-the-air download, activation, and management of SIM profiles for IoT devices.
- In-factory profile provisioning: Allows SIM profiles to be securely preloaded during device manufacturing to simplify supply chains.
- Embedded security architecture: Integrates security mechanisms to protect device identity, data integrity, and connectivity operations.
- Ecosystem integration: Supports collaboration with chipset vendors, module manufacturers, and mobile network operators for large-scale IoT deployments.
9. G+D
Giesecke+Devrient (G+D) provides IoT connectivity and lifecycle management solutions through its IoTgo® Control platform. The platform aims to simplify connectivity management, remote SIM provisioning, and device lifecycle operations across large IoT deployments. It enables organizations to manage connectivity services, configure devices, and monitor usage through a centralized interface that supports modern eSIM and iSIM technologies.
Key features include:
- End-to-end device lifecycle management: Supports device provisioning, configuration, monitoring, and decommissioning across IoT deployments.
- Remote SIM provisioning support: Enables over-the-air management of eSIM profiles using GSMA-compliant standards.
- Centralized connectivity administration: Provides a single platform for managing connectivity services across device fleets.
- Advanced analytics and reporting: Offers insights into connectivity usage, device performance, and operational metrics.
- API-based backend integration: Enables integration with enterprise systems to automate workflows and operational processes.
10. Valid
Valid provides a standards-based connectivity management platform that supports eSIM and remote SIM provisioning services for IoT deployments. The platform enables mobile network operators, device manufacturers, and enterprises to manage SIM profiles securely while supporting global connectivity operations. Its architecture allows organizations to deploy the platform in cloud or on-premises environments depending on operational requirements.
Key features include:
- GSMA-compliant eSIM provisioning services: Supports remote SIM provisioning using certified SM-DP, SM-DP+, and SM-SR platforms.
- Remote profile lifecycle management: Enables secure over-the-air download, activation, modification, and deletion of SIM profiles.
- Modular platform architecture: Provides configurable services that can integrate with existing telecom or enterprise infrastructures.
- Flexible deployment options: Supports SaaS, private cloud, or on-premises deployment models.
- Regional data hosting capabilities: Enables compliance with data sovereignty and regional regulatory requirements.
11. Thales
Thales provides an IoT connectivity framework that combines secure SIM technologies, remote provisioning infrastructure, and cybersecurity tools. Its solutions support the lifecycle of IoT devices, from hardware design and connectivity provisioning to operational management and security protection. The platform aims to help enterprises and OEMs deploy secure, scalable IoT solutions across global networks.
Key features include:
- Secure SIM and eSIM hardware: Provides ruggedized SIM technologies designed for long-lifecycle IoT deployments.
- Remote SIM provisioning infrastructure: Enables devices to activate and manage connectivity profiles through over-the-air provisioning.
- Embedded cybersecurity capabilities: Includes encryption, authentication, and identity protection mechanisms for IoT devices and communications.
- Global connectivity ecosystem: Works with mobile network operators and partners to support international IoT deployments.
- Integrated lifecycle approach: Combines device design, connectivity operations, and security into a unified framework.
12. 10T Tech
10T Tech provides an eSIM lifecycle management platform for mobile operators and digital service providers deploying eSIM connectivity services. Its My10T platform offers tools for provisioning, distributing, and managing eSIM profiles through a centralized interface. The platform supports digital onboarding and analytics capabilities to help operators manage large-scale eSIM deployments across consumer and IoT environments.
Key features include:
- eSIM lifecycle management platform: Provides centralized tools for provisioning, managing, and monitoring eSIM profiles.
- GSMA-compliant SM-DP+ infrastructure: Supports standards-based eSIM profile delivery and management.
- Rapid deployment capabilities: Enables mobile operators to launch eSIM services within a short implementation timeframe.
- QR-based activation workflows: Supports digital distribution of eSIM profiles using QR codes for scalable onboarding.
- Device analytics and monitoring: Provides insights into device types and behaviors during eSIM profile downloads.
Related Content : IoT connectivity management platform guide
What to Look for in a Modern IoT Connectivity Platform
Here are some of the main aspects to consider when evaluating connectivity platforms for IoT use cases.
1. IoT SIM Management
Effective device management is essential for any IoT connectivity platform. This includes the ability to provision SIMs over the air—activating, deactivating, or assigning new profiles in real-time without needing to restart or physically access the device. These capabilities streamline deployment and maintenance, especially across large or distributed networks.
In addition to provisioning, platforms should offer fine-grained control over device behavior. That means setting permissions, managing data consumption, and monitoring usage at the individual SIM level. Real-time visibility into device status helps prevent misuse, optimize resource allocation, and ensure devices are functioning as expected.
2. Agnostic Compatibility
A modern CMP must be compatible with all forms of IoT hardware and connectivity technologies. This includes supporting multiple SIM formats (from 2FF to MFF2) and access technologies (from legacy 2G to CAT-M and 5G). Compatibility shouldn’t hinge on any one form factor or radio standard.
As network technologies evolve, maintaining this flexibility ensures devices stay connected regardless of geographic region or deployment context. Agnostic compatibility simplifies procurement, reduces vendor lock-in, and allows businesses to build future-proof IoT infrastructures.
3. Built-In Security
Security needs to be embedded in every layer of the connectivity stack. Leading platforms offer continuous cellular connectivity with real-time monitoring and visibility across devices. They provide tools like smart firewalls, which can filter traffic based on rules and enforce strict access policies to prevent unauthorized use.
Advanced security features also include tunneling and network slicing. These capabilities enable businesses to isolate traffic and apply custom security measures for sensitive data flows. For high-risk or regulated industries, such features are essential to protect data integrity and maintain compliance.
4. Flexible Business Models
A modern IoT platform must adapt to a wide range of commercial strategies. For high-volume, low-ARPU use cases (like smart meters), usage-based billing with granular control is crucial. Mission-critical applications may require tiered pricing with guaranteed bandwidth and QoS.
The platform should support multiple billing models simultaneously—flat-rate, pay-per-use, prepaid, or event-based—and offer custom pricing logic per customer, device type, or service bundle. Real-time billing integration (e.g., with BSS/OSS) enables accurate invoicing and revenue sharing. Additionally, features like white-label portals and reseller management are key for operators offering IoT as a service.
5. Built-In eSIM Orchestration
As eSIM adoption grows, platforms must support full remote SIM provisioning (RSP) workflows in line with GSMA specifications. This includes capabilities for profile download, enablement, disabling, and deletion without physical device access. Integration with SM-DP+ and SM-SR servers is essential for managing the lifecycle of both M2M and consumer eSIMs.
Advanced orchestration tools allow zero-touch onboarding—automatically assigning profiles based on device location, business rules, or user input. Platforms should also support SGP.32 (IoT eSIM specification) for future-proofing and large-scale automation. In-factory profile provisioning (IFPP) reduces time-to-market by embedding connectivity during manufacturing.
6. Elastic Scalability
IoT deployments may start with pilot projects but can quickly scale to millions of endpoints. Elastic scalability means the platform can expand compute and storage resources dynamically, ensuring consistent performance as loads increase.
Cloud-native platforms using Kubernetes, containerization, and microservices can autoscale components like API gateways, policy engines, and data ingestion services. Horizontal scalability supports geographic expansion and load balancing, while redundancy and failover mechanisms ensure availability. Multi-tenancy support allows service providers to isolate and manage resources across customers or business units efficiently.If you’d like concrete examples of the platforms that fulfil these requirements, explore our guide to the best enterprise-IoT platforms in 2025
Conclusion
Connectivity management platforms are becoming central to the success of IoT initiatives, evolving from basic SIM management tools into comprehensive control planes for distributed device networks. As the diversity of IoT applications grows—from low-power sensors to real-time, high-throughput systems—so does the demand for platforms that offer granular control, regulatory agility, and operational resilience.