Everything You Need To Know About 2G & 3G Sunsets

2G and 3G network shutdown or sunset is impacting several IoT deployments around the world. This 2G/3G sunset refers to the closing down of 2G and 3G networks by mobile operators around the world. From cost optimization to making room for new technologies (such as NB-IoT, LTE-M, and upcoming 5G) to use the frequencies, there are several reasons pushing network operators down this road. Devices may experience issues due to the network's phasing out if the GSM module operates on 2G or 3G only. Therefore, it makes sense to get ready for a time without 2G and 3G networks and plan new deployments wisely.

Current Scenario

IoT and M2M devices that transmit small amounts of data do not need 4G speeds. Therefore, in several markets 2G technology continues to make sense for small or infrequent data transfers, particularly in countries with a large geographies where remote areas are covered only with 2G. There is also a cost-benefit as the module cost is significantly lower than the 4G modules with 2G/ 3G backward compatibility. 

Global deployments have generally been done on 4G modules to ensure the 2G/3G networks’ sunset does not have a huge impact.

Why 2G, 3G Networks Are “Sunsetting”?

Technologies like 2G and 3G have already undergone considerable modifications to lengthen their usefulness and make the most out of the deployed infrastructure. However, the radio frequencies that each carrier can use for their networks are limited. And in the coming years, demand for 4G, 5G, LTE-M, and NB-IoT will rise further. The majority of GSM-based 2G networks employ the 850-1800 MHz or 900-1900 MHz frequencies. Additionally, 900-2100 MHz or 850-1900 MHz bands are used by 3G networks. These same bands may be used by more advanced cellular technologies to deliver greater data throughput and more useful functionalities. 

Impact of 2G & 3G Shutdown On Your IoT Deployments

From a networks perspective: In several markets 2G makes sense for small or infrequent data transfers as 2G continues to be the most widespread network technology, particularly in countries with large geographies. 3G technology hasn’t had quite the same appeal and so a lot of network operators have looked towards shutting down 3G first. As 4G/ 5G or other new technologies spread across the regions, it might make sense for 2G to be shut down completely as well eventually.

From a devices/ hardware perspective: Devices requiring backward compatibility mean that a 4G module has the added costs of 3G and 2G network support making adopting new technology more expensive. With 3G technology being quite expensive, both on the network side and the hardware side, module makers have explored releasing 4G modules with 2G support. Several enterprises have chosen to go for 2G only modules in markets where a 3G shutdown is imminent but 2G continues to be served. Ultimately as new technologies spread, a module with a lower cost structure (e.g. 4G only) can positively influence a lot of business cases, further ushering the sunsets.

If your IoT deployments are using 2G/ 3G only modules, the most important questions to ask are

• if any network operator in that country still offers 2G/ 3G?
• What is that network operator’s plan to shut down these networks?

If all 2G/3G networks in the country are being shut down, then there is no option but to replace your devices and transition to a different technology.

How To Prepare For The Sunsets

For all new deployments, we do advise selecting modules/ devices that support current technologies, e.g. 4G. While emerging technologies like NB-IoT, LTE-M and 5G are rapidly spreading, you would want to check the coverage in your targeted regions before going forward. New variants of modules such as NB-IoT/ LTE-M with a 2G/ 4G fallback can also make this transition easier.

If you are unsure what’s the best, talk to us.

When will shutdowns happen in different regions?

Actually, there is no set time for when carriers will terminate their 2G and 3G networks. Based on local demand, their objectives, and what they are capable of, each Mobile Network Operator (MNO) must determine when it makes the most sense for their business. Several carriers wanted to discontinue 3G by the end of 2022, and many have already started to phase out 2G service.

Here is a list of upcoming 2G and 3G sunsets by nation and service provider because you might have IoT deployments everywhere in the world.

Disclaimer: The data was collected from various sources and websites on the internet and compiled for ease. It is subject to change based on each MNO’s schedule and timelines.

Our specialists can assist you in creating a migration plan. Get in touch with sales@connectedyou.io to learn more. 

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Written by Neha Verma & Arun Shankar @ConnectedYou