Multi-Network Connectivity: Why is it Important?

Enterprise digital solutions generally need multi-network connectivity because they are vastly different from consumer digital solutions, such as smartphones or tablets. For example, an asset-tracking device might travel across North America or Europe and need to connect to two, three, or many more networks along its route. 

This need for multi-network connectivity impacts the entire value chain of the devices being used in applications. Enterprises selling digital solutions need to ensure their end customers are receiving uninterrupted connectivity anywhere their devices are in use. Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) need to sell reliable connectivity to their customers. 

Even if devices are stationary, leveraging a single network does not build resiliency into the solution in case of network outages or failure. It also creates operator dependency and lock-in, making switching operators difficult and potentially costly.

A Fragmented Approach to Multi-Network Connectivity

Two approaches have traditionally been available to source multi-network connectivity, both of which have flaws that inhibit streamlined success in digital solutions. 

Relationships with Multiple Network Operators 

As an enterprise or MVNO, the option to work with multiple network operators creates a piecemeal approach to multi-network connectivity. Essentially, the organization approaches the mobile network operators (MNOs) needed to satisfy their coverage requirements. This, however, creates a fractured approach that causes numerous challenges:

• Integration Overhead: When working with multiple MNOs, that creates the need for multiple integrations, and essentially creating bespoke integrations with which every MNO that the organization is working. 
• Partial Coverage: Not a single MNO fully covers an entire area. Even in North America, with the least amount of MNOs, this is not achievable. 
• Multiple SKUs per SIM: Managing SKUs can be logistically tricky, requiring dedicated resources and time. 
• Sub-Par Service: Organizations are not achieving – or delivering – a single pane of glass experience because managing each MNO involves different platforms and billing and usage mechanisms, which impacts service delivery. 

The Roaming Dilemma

Roaming created a slightly more appealing approach to multi-network connectivity but, as the demand for consistent, simplified connectivity on a global scale has grown, is becoming a less reliable option, and regulations are becoming overwhelming hurdles. 

• Permanent Roaming Restrictions: Regulatory challenges – particularly in areas like Turkey, China, Brazil, and more – require local connectivity for devices that will remain in-country. 
• Data Privacy Compliance: Local data regulations make it challenging for devices that leverage roaming connectivity as local data is sent to outside of the country and can be non-compliant with data privacy laws. 
• Performance: Latency and uniform behavior can both suffer due to the data travel time inherent in roaming connectivity. This also can negatively impact battery life. 

Multi-IMSI Connectivity

Multi-IMSI is a highly secure solution that is lower cost and delivers all the functionality needed to achieve multi-network connectivity. A Multi-IMSI is a single SIM card that holds multiple IMSIs, which allow the device to connect to more than one network.  

A multi-IMSI technology solution is managed by a single connectivity provider who maintains relationships with multiple network operators. These operators supply their IMSIs, which are stored on a single SIM card. When devices require additional coverage or encounter a network fault, these profiles can be switched automatically with logic on the device or SIM or over-the-air (OTA), enabling real-time remote SIM provisioning of the new IMSI.

This helps significantly streamline logistics through a single SKU and also by leveraging one connectivity provider. floLIVE has created a Multi-IMSI solution powered through our owned network infrastructure and our robust library of more than 15 network operator IMSIs to help our customers achieve multi-network connectivity anywhere in the world. 

Reach out to get more information on how floLIVE’s Multi-IMSI solution is the most enhanced approach to multi-network connectivity.