NB-IoT Deployment Guide – Release 2

Narrowband-IoT (NB-IoT) is a new cellular radio access technology specified by 3GPP in Release 13 to address the fast-expanding market for low power wide area connectivity. To achieve global coverage and wide adoption of NB-IoT services, MNOs (mobile network operator) must ensure that devices and end-to-end services from various providers will connect to the NB-IoT systems that have been deployed, and that the data transport capability and connection modes are well understood.

This updated document contains non-binding guidelines designed to help mobile operators deploying NB-IoT networks and devices globally to ensure interoperability and smooth roaming. It identifies a minimum set of key features, details key configurations and considerations for deployments in 2018. The recommendations have been developed by the members of the GSMA NB-IoT Forum, based on the survey inputs provided to the GSMA by 13 mobile operators who are deploying NB-IoT networks in over 40 countries, which include Europe, the Middle East, Africa, South America and Asia-Pacific (APAC).