Carrier & Connectivity Strategies

What is connectivity diversification?

Connectivity diversification is the practice of leveraging multiple types of network connections and technologies to ensure that IoT devices can be deployed in certain markets, or remain in the field longer even as network deployments evolve. Sometimes called fallback, this approach can ensures that there is a path to supporting customers in different countries or regions even when different carriers are prioritizing different network buildouts. We’ve seen examples of this like varying timelines of 2G/3G network sunsets, differing availability of Cat-M1, and new evolutions of LTE (Cat 1 bis) and 5G (RedCap) across different markets.

Connectivity diversification requires you, or your connectivity provider, to thoughtfully choose hardware and pre-configure SIMs for  different communication technologies to eliminate single points of failure (like Cat M1’s lack of support in LATAM), maximize uptime, and expand global reach. This can include cellular connection types like 5G, LPWANs like NB-IoT and LTE-M, other networks like LTE Cat 1 bis, or even Wi-Fi and wired connections.

How is connectivity diversification achieved?

There are numerous ways to diversify connectivity strategies to ensure reliability. This commonly includes combining cellular connections with Wi-Fi back-up, satellite failover, or wired connections. 

• Primary cellular connection with wi-fi back-up
• Primary cellular connection with satellite failover
• Wired connections with wireless redundancy
• Multiple cellular network technology connections

Strategize connectivity solutions to promote reliability

Point-of-sale terminals may use 4G LTE as their primary source of connectivity, but automatically switch to Wi-Fi if it becomes available. A remote sensor-to-gateway solution may primarily rely on LTE-M backhaul but failover to satellite in the event of cellular connectivity issues. Some businesses utilize Ethernet connections but have 5G backup to ensure operational continuity in the event of a wired network disruption. These familiar connectivity diversification methods are used daily by cities, companies, and consumers alike.  

However, highly mobile IoT applications and mission-critical use cases often require more complex connectivity diversification strategies. LPWAN (Low-Power Wide-Area Network) technologies have faced uneven global rollouts, with certain geographic markets favoring specific networks. Internationally deployed IoT devices need to be able to transition across these networks to preserve connectivity and ensure reliable performance. This also allows OEMs to launch their devices around the globe without redesigning SKUs for each distinct network type.

Choose a cellular hardware that supports fallback options

Even if a SIM is capable of connecting to different networks, the device cannot connect unless its hardware is designed to support these technologies. Connectivity support for networks like NB-IoT and LTE-M must be built into the device for it to take advantage of the SIMs’ capabilities. 

OEMs designing and shipping their products to markets larger than a single region must consider their hardware’s flexibility to ensure connectivity. Otherwise, they’ll need to build a brand new product with different hardware before scaling their operations. 

What are the key benefits of diversified connectivity options?

Connectivity diversification ultimately means IoT solutions are not dependent on a single network technology to function. This hybrid network strategy bolsters operational performance and facilitates growth. 

• Improves resilience and uptime: Network options maintain device connectivity despite outages, interference, or coverage limitations.
• Facilitates flexibility across environments: Diverse connections support devices in rural, urban, indoor, and mobile scenarios where a single technology alone may not suffice.
• Promotes scalable global operations: Manufacturers can easily deploy IoT devices worldwide without redesigning hardware or each region’s preferred network. 

What's the difference between carrier and connectivity diversification?

Carrier diversification focuses on leveraging multiple mobile operators (even if through a single authorized provider) for maximized coverage, optimal efficiency, and global scalability. The focus is on acknowledging that IoT solutions often have global ambitions attached, and that no single wireless carrier has perfect coverage. Utilizing the networks of multiple mobile operators can solve coverage gaps while also unlocking more network capabilities from any of the individual carriers that may otherwise be inaccessible, or cost-prohibitive through a purely global roaming SIM approach. 

Connectivity diversification also assists in the ultimate goals of serving customers and scaling the business globally, but the approach involves planning to utilize different network types and technologies to mitigate dependency on the rollout of a single connectivity technology. The two are distinct strategic approaches to reliable connectivity but function together to create layered resiliency for IoT deployments. 

Building layered resilience through carrier & connectivity diversification

Achieving resilience in IoT connectivity requires a carefully constructed approach. By leveraging carrier and connectivity diversification, businesses can create robust, dependable, and scalable IoT deployments that thrive in diverse and hard-to-predict environments. Layered resilience reinforces every element of connectivity and promotes reliability, mitigates risk, and creates future-ready IoT deployments.

What are the key components of layered resilience for IoT connectivity?

We’ve identified three critical components that result in a highly reliable, globally accessible IoT ecosystem with minimal downtime, optimized costs, and long-term scalability. Network fallback strategies, native carrier diversity, and carrier redundancy and failover are three critical components of any diversification strategy for IoT deployments. 

1. Network fallback: Seamless transitions between networks and technologies. 

• IoT devices automatically shift from one network or carrier to another without interruption, manual intervention, or complex instructions. This involves switching from one cellular band or technology to preserve uptime, like a device that operates on 5G but supports fallback 4G connectivity or switches from LTE-M to NB-IoT based on region.
• Device hardware is designed to support long-term global ambitions, diverse connectivity choices, and different technologies. 
• Temporary outage, degradation, or loss of signal in one network does not cause loss of critical data, operational downtime, or impede device performance.
• Benefit: Prevents sudden disconnections and data loss during transient outages, coverage gaps, or device movement.

2. Native carrier diversity and global roaming SIM strategies: Local, compliant, optimized access to multiple networks. 

• Through authorized agreements with multiple carriers, devices are enabled to connect to available local networks. The net result is the ability to support customers globally while seeing benefits at the local level, like reduced latency, broader bandwidth access, and permanent roaming permissions. 
• By establishing native carrier agreements, IoT solutions don’t have to worry about permanent roaming restrictions or unnecessary roaming charges, since they are operating on authorized contracts. The challenge for most companies, is that it can be incredibly time/resource-intenstive to manage more than one carrier. Even Fortune 50 companies struggle with this, and is one reason why they find value in partnering with companies like Zipit that have those authorized partnerships already.
• Device performance is enhanced by accessing optimal local carriers based on real-time conditions, as native connections improve signal strength, performance, and can support features like eDRX/PSM. 
• For devices that are highly mobile, global roaming SIM solutions can be implemented to achieve similar results through Zipit’s robust SIM strategies. 
• Benefit: Provides scalable, global connectivity without sacrificing quality or violating regional restrictions which can lead to risk of termination of active lines. 

3. Carrier redundancy and failover: Ability to switch across cellular providers’ networks.

• Redundant carrier relationships are established, allowing switching if the primary carrier’s service quality diminishes, fails, or becomes unavailable due to device mobility.
• Continuous monitoring of network health, availability, and performance enables proactive management and response to network disruptions.
• Benefit: Maintains uptime and service continuity even during travel and despite regional or carrier-level disruptions.

Reliable IoT connectivity requires the implementation of proactive measures to identify and reduce potential disturbances across all connectivity layers. By adopting strategies that preemptively address common issues like coverage gaps and degraded network performance, OEMs can ensure more resilience across the entirety of their IoT deployment. Employing multiple layers of redundancy, diversified cellular carrier options, and fallback networks creates a resilient connectivity ecosystem. 

How do these components work together to create layered resilience?

The cumulative impact of these strategies is substantial and creates a highly resilient, global IoT deployment with minimal downtime, effortless scalability potential, and a roadmap for sustainable growth. 

• Network fallback acts as an immediate safety net, instantly transitioning connections if the current signal weakens or fails, preventing immediate disconnections.
• Native diversity enhances connectivity quality by proactively selecting the optimal network based on signal strength, performance, and local compliance requirements. This strategy also provides the foundation for global scalability, allowing IoT deployments to adapt dynamically as they expand geographically. For highly mobile devices, global roaming SIM solutions can be created to achieve optimal connectivity. 
• Carrier redundancy ensures continuous connectivity by automatically and intelligently routing traffic to alternative carriers during sustained periods of network degradation or complete outages, maintaining operational stability.

This unified approach encourages uninterrupted operations, even in challenging environments. IoT companies can freely operate globally without complex, carrier-specific constraints or the burden of excessive roaming fees. The diversified strategic approach ensures IoT solutions can adapt easily to evolving network technologies, regulatory landscapes, and operational requirements, positioning deployments for long-term success. 

However, every IoT solution’s needs are unique and require a customized approach to these components based on the specific nuances presented by each application. Finding a connectivity partner equipped to help you manage carrier diversification and connectivity options is essential to your deployment's success. 

A partnership with Zipit Wireless simplifies the inherent complexity of managing multiple carrier relationships. We provide OEMs with streamlined access to global connectivity, eliminating the onerous task of negotiating numerous individual contracts from your responsibilities. Additionally, OEMs are rarely able to negotiate sustainably priced rates or access to high data plans without an intermediary. 

Zipit's comprehensive platform ensures devices can effortlessly leverage diverse carrier networks, eliminating compliance and roaming issues and significantly reducing operational overhead. Ultimately, we enable OEMs to focus on innovation and growth, while Zipit expertly handles the intricacies of global connectivity and network management.

Network fallback strategies ensure IoT solution OEMs strategically make connectivity and hardware choices that prepare them for seamless international deployments. 

What is network fallback?

Network fallback is a connectivity strategy where IoT devices automatically transition between different networks or communication technologies to maintain continuous device operation when the primary network connection becomes unavailable or unreliable. 

This transition occurs when the signal strength weakens, coverage is lost, or service disruptions occur. Network fallback strategies ensure continuous connectivity without manual intervention or downtime, protecting IoT devices against compromised performance and interrupted service. 

Why do network fallback strategies matter for IoT OEMs?

Network fallback is an essential component of a flexible, scalable IoT strategy, especially for mobile global deployments. Connectivity technologies have faced uneven international rollouts. Specific regions favor different networks, resulting in a lack of overall global network continuity. 

China and Australia have favored NB-IoT connections, whereas most of North America and Western Europe utilize LTE-M.

Devices that want to preserve performance and connectivity worldwide must easily transition across network technologies without sacrificing performance or impeding uptime. OEMs need to factor this in from the outset of their device design and connectivity strategization to support both global device launches and future expansion opportunities.

How network fallback works:

Network fallback maintains stable operations and consistent data transmissions despite external influences. 

1. Primary network monitoring

The connected IoT device or gateway continuously monitors the quality of its active network connection. Key performance indicators, like latency, packet loss, signal strength, and throughput, are carefully observed. 

2. Fallback condition triggers

A fallback event is triggered when the primary network connection becomes unstable or unavailable. This can happen due to tower outages, weak coverage, interference, or a device’s movement. Predefined thresholds in the firmware or connectivity platform determine when to initiate a network switch. 

3. Automatic network switching

The devices automatically connect to the next available network based on prioritized selection logic. Devices connect immediately, and most importantly, without requiring manual intervention like physical SIM card replacements. This may involve switching from one cellular technology to another, like moving from 5G to 4G LTE or NB-IoT or LTE-M, or switching cellular carriers via multi-network or eSIM profiles. 

4. Network revalidation and authentication

The device authenticates the new network using its provisioned SIM profile. Modern eUICC-equipped devices can dynamically load new carrier profiles for local access. 

5. Session and operational continuity

Some fallback implementations maintain active data sessions, while others may briefly interrupt connectivity during the switch. Optimized fallback logic minimizes latency and packet loss to ensure seamless user experiences and allows critical data to continue to flow. 

How do you implement a network fallback strategy?

Designing an effective network fallback strategy is critical for IoT OEMs aiming to ensure continuous uptime and reliable device performance across diverse geographies. Successful implementation requires careful planning in hardware, connectivity options, and partnerships to anticipate variable network availability and evolving technology standards.

1. Leverage multiple network connectivity options

IoT devices often operate in environments where network conditions fluctuate due to geography, infrastructure, carrier coverage, and device movement. A robust fallback strategy begins with access to multiple network options that accommodate regional differences in network connectivity, all while enabling maximum device performance. Devices must be prepared to automatically and effectively change connections when a signal becomes unavailable or unreliable. 

2. Identify local markets and account for regional network preferences

Different regions have varying adoption rates for IoT-centered cellular technologies. It’s important to note that these changes happen fairly regularly and are driven by the network operators and in some cases regulatory bodies in different countries. Your network strategy must reflect that reality. It’s crucial for IoT OEMs to strategically identify the markets where their devices will be available, both at launch and in future iterations. Manufacturers should choose device hardware that is reasonably flexible enough to support the connectivity demands of their deployments.

• LTE-M (Cat-M1): This LPWAN is widely available in the U.S., Canada, and Eastern Europe.
• NB-IoT: NB-IoT is more prevalent in Australian and Chinese markets, although at the time of this writing in 2025, Verizon and T-Mobile support it in the United States. AT&T has recently decided to prioritize LTE-M and has decommissioned their NB-IoT network in the US.
• Alternative and emerging technologies: LTE Cat 1 bis and 5G RedCap are gaining traction, offering mid-tier performance between LTE-M and full 5G. As technology continues to advance, new networks will continue to emerge, demanding flexibility and strategic roadmapping from IoT OEMs. 

For example, an asset tracker that is traveling from Argentina to the United States will need to seamlessly transition between NB-IoT and LTE-M to maintain connectivity as it travels from South America to North America. By aligning fallback logic to the network ecosystems of your deployment regions, you ensure devices can connect wherever they operate without relying solely on roaming agreements that may introduce latency, throttling, or regulatory issues.

3. Prioritize hardware and firmware design for flexibility

A fallback strategy starts with devices that are built for adaptability. Hardware should support:

• Multi-band and multi-mode radios capable of switching across technologies
• Dual-SIM, multi-network SIM, and/or eSIM/eUICC capabilities to maximize carrier access.
• Scalability for international deployment, including compliance with regional regulations and certification requirements
• Backup options that ensure connectivity (like 3G backup for Cat-M1 devices, 4G backup for 5G devices, etc.)

Firmware should also be equipped with intelligent network-selection logic to determine when and how to trigger fallback events based on signal quality, latency, and pre-set thresholds.

4. Partnerships with a trusted connectivity provider

Implementing network fallback requires detailed attention to the unique needs presented by each deployment and designing connectivity strategies and device hardware prepared to support future expansion. Early engagement with a connectivity partner helps OEMs avoid costly redesigns, accelerate time to market, and align fallback strategies with their long-term product vision.

Partnering with an experienced and innovative provider like Zipit Wireless simplifies this complex, time-consuming, and resource-intensive undertaking. Zipit will also provide customers with insider perspectives on shifting market trends, technological innovations, and strategic pivots. 

 A partnership with Zipit Wireless offers OEMs:

• Global, multi-network SIM solutions with native and roaming access
• Early guidance on hardware and design choices to ensure long-term compatibility
• Centralized connectivity management platforms for monitoring and market-driven fallback logic
• Scalable support for future network technologies like LTE Cat 1 bis and 5G RedCap
• Early insights into the roadmaps of Tier 1 carriers to help OEMs build sustainable connectivity strategies.  

Real-world applications of network fallback: cohesive global product launches

OEM Hypothetical: “How do I launch a single product line throughout North America and Australia, when the different carriers across the two continents have rolled out different technologies and with different coverage areas and densities?”

Network build-outs and trends vary widely from country to country. The networks within any given nation are heavily influenced by each country’s top carriers, and in some cases, national regulatory bodies. To access the optimal local technologies for a device being deployed in both Australia and the USA, in general an OEM would need to be connected with different carriers in both countries and leverage those relationships for contracts that support their data, mobility, and connectivity needs. 

With a connectivity partnership, OEMs no longer need to devote the energy and time to building these relationships directly with the carriers. Zipit Wireless has extensive relationships with many top global carriers, giving us insight into incoming innovations, changes in market attitudes, and upcoming technological sunsets. We’ve built our connectivity business to support network fallback options, specific communications and data plans, and SIM logic fashioned with the support of our carrier partners.

OEMs don’t have to initiate and manage these business relationships by themselves when they leverage Zipit Wireless’s strategic partnerships. Furthermore, they don’t have to engineer multiple SIM platforms into their tech stack or plan for the physical replacement of SIM cards to ensure smooth international mobility. Critically, Zipit’s buying power with global carriers is greater than that of most individual customers. We’re typically able to translate this into measurable financial benefits for our clients. 

Zipit Wireless, as a connectivity partner, brings multi-layered benefits that speed up time-to-market, reduce operational costs, and ensure reliable global connectivity.

What are the advantages of using network fallback?

Well-planned and carefully executed network fallback strategies provide IoT OEMs with immeasurable operational and business advantages when competing on a global stage. Devices and connectivity plans purpose-built to proactively handle network disruption and transition ensure IoT deployments remain stable, resilient, and future-ready. 

1. Continuous uptime and improved reliability 

Network fallback minimizes downtime. Devices remain operational despite crossing borders into a new country, experiencing network outages, and encountering performance degradation. 

• Example: A sensor on an asset tracker automatically switches from LTE-M to NB-IoT when the LTE signal becomes unavailable, ensuring uninterrupted data collection.
• Impact: This level of reliability is critical for mission-critical applications like healthcare monitoring, industrial automation, security and surveillance, and cold chain logistics. 

2. Reduced risk of loss or communication breakdowns

Fallback prevents gaps in data transmission by enabling devices to switch networks before losing connectivity entirely. 

• Example: A fleet tracking device averts lost GPS logs by maintaining a continuous data stream while changing networks. 
• Impact: Reduced risk of missed alerts, lost telemetry data, or service interruptions, which protects both efficiency and customer trust. 

3. Optimized for mobility and global deployments  

IoT devices frequently operate across borders, in rural environments, and in mobile scenarios where network availability changes dynamically. They must be optimzied to store data locally and retry connections after losing them.

• Example: A cross-border trucking fleet uses SIMs that support fallback across cellular networks as they move between countries. An asset tracker enters an area without coverage, but can immediately transfer data saved while disconnected after re-entering a coverage zone. 
• Impact: Reduces the need for manual interventions, roaming issues, or device reconfigurations, allowing organizations to expand deployments internationally with confidence.

4. Enhanced user experience and operational resilience

Seamless fallback improves end-user experience by maintaining performance and usability. 

• Example: A point-of-sale system in a retail store automatically switches networks during an outage, allowing transactions to continue without interruption.
• Impact: Ensures business continuity, protects revenue flow, and prevents negative customer experiences caused by downtime.

A network fallback strategy not only prevents failures but also future-proofs IoT deployments by allowing them to adapt to evolving network infrastructures and create a strong foundation for layered resilience.

What are the challenges of implementing a network fallback strategy? 

A network fallback strategy provides benefits for IoT deployments, but the design and execution are not without challenges, especially if attempted without a connectivity provider partner.  From hardware complexity to connectivity management, organizations must plan carefully to avoid costly mistakes. 

1. Latency and reconnection delays 

Switching networks is not always instantaneous. Devices may experience a brief service interruption as they detect a failure and connect to an alternate network.

• The challenge: Critical applications like healthcare devices or industrial monitoring cannot afford extended delays during fallback.
• Zipit’s Solution: Zipit activate multiple SIMs to provide diverse connectivity, allowing the devices to determine fallback logic and perform proactive network monitoring. This minimizes downtime and ensures failovers happen quickly and seamlessly.

2. Data costs and billing complexity

Fallback often involves switching to alternate carriers or roaming networks, which can lead to unexpected costs if not properly managed.

• The challenge: Without centralized visibility, organizations risk bill shock, especially in multi-region deployments.
• Zipit’s Solution: Zipit provides multi-network SIMs and multiple physical SIMs with a unified billing and connectivity management platform, giving OEMs predictable costs and clear oversight of data usage across networks. We continue to design new connectivity options to provide our customers with future-ready solutions that adapt to the changing market. 

3. Device and firmware compatibility

Not all devices can support multi-network fallback out of the box. Implementing fallback often requires multi-band radios, dual-SIM/eSIM support, and intelligent firmware.

• The challenge: OEMs face long development cycles and risk misaligning hardware choices with target markets or long-term business goals.
• Zipit’s Solution: Zipit engages early with OEMs to provide hardware and connectivity guidance, ensuring that device design supports fallback strategies and is future-ready for new technologies. 

4. SIM provisioning and management

Fallback is only effective if devices can dynamically switch networks, but this requires careful SIM provisioning and carrier  management at scale.

• The challenge: Managing hundreds or thousands of devices across multiple carriers can be overwhelming without the right platform.
• Zipit’s Solution: Zipit’s centralized connectivity management platform offers near real-time monitoring and analytics for proactive issue resolution. 

By addressing these challenges, Zipit Wireless makes network fallback strategies scalable, secure, and cost-effective for OEMs. From global multi-network SIMs to lifecycle connectivity management, Zipit helps IoT businesses avoid the pitfalls of carrier complexity and focus on reliable, revenue-generating deployments.

Some IoT applications benefit enormously by securing pre-negotiated plans from native carriers, instead of relying on overly simplistic roaming agreements, running afoul of restrictions and regulations, or settling for partial coverage. With the native carrier diversity model, OEMs can unlock the most flexibility in terms of cost, permanent roaming approvals, and special network technologies like eDRX and other power-saving features.

What is native carrier diversity?

Native carrier diversity leverages multiple cellular network operators with local access credentials to ensure continuous optimized connectivity for a single deployment. Diversifying native carrier coverage provides direct network access across all regions for a deployment, improving performance, reliability, and compliance in ways that roaming-only solutions struggle to achieve. For example, different IoT SKUs could use an AT&T SIM for North American deployments, a Vodafone SIM in Europe, and a Telefónica SIM in Latin America.

Global roaming SIM solutions work optimally for many mobile IoT devices and for applications where the manufacturer may be uncertain where the devices will ultimately be sold. However, native connectivity offers distinct advantages for certain IoT deployments, especially devices that will remain within one region for extended periods of time. Diversifying carrier connectivity options allows devices to escape single-carrier lock-in and the ensuing limitations, as well as access direct network support and higher data rates. 

Why does native carrier access matter for IoT applications?

Native connectivity provides direct access to the fastest, most reliable network connectivity in a specific region. Many specific carriers limit the bands and frequencies for roaming carriers. A native SIM will have better coverage within a country than a roaming SIM, which may experience diminished performance due to throttling. Native carrier connectivity also typically extends the best pricing options, especially if OEMs negotiate contracts through established MVNOs with pre-existing carrier relationships. 

• Local credential access: Native carrier connectivity gives devices access to local towers. This translates to better latency, increased reliability, and all-around improved performance. 
• No roaming restrictions: Native access eliminates throttling and allows devices to access to power-saving modes and high data plans. It also eliminates the delayed activations and elevated costs that frequently accompany roaming solutions. 
• High data allowances: Most carriers force IoT deployments to adopt a native strategy if they want to use data plans that consume 5 GB-100 GB. Zipit Wireless can offer OEMs these high data plans without requiring them to negotiate directly with carriers.
• Compliance and regional optimization: Native carrier diversity ensures IoT deployments stay compliant and avoid issues with restricted connectivity or forced SIM deactivation.     
• Scalability: Native carrier access offers flexible, global, and future-ready connectivity options, as opposed to the risks of SIM lock-in and coverage gaps that accompany traditional single-carrier solutions and permanent roaming. 

Native carrier access and eDRX

Select networks also restrict access to power-conserving features designed for IoT devices, like eDRX. eDRX (Extended Discontinuous Reception) allows IoT devices to periodically “wake up” to monitor for network activity, rather than remaining constantly active. eDRX allows for prolonged sleep cycles that are unavailable under traditional DRX. Devices dictate the sleep intervals, which can range from a few seconds to tens of minutes or even up to a few hours. 

eDRX extends battery life significantly for devices like sensors, trackers, and meters, which can translate to huge cost savings for certain applications. This technology is not suitable for devices that require near-instantaneous communication or ongoing connectivity. eDRX is often used alongside Power Save Mode. While PSM offers deeper sleep and lower power use, the device becomes unreachable during sleep. eDRX, on the other hand, keeps the device periodically reachable with controlled latency.

eDRX may be unavailable to roaming SIMs and requires native carrier connectivity, as eDRX functionality depends on support from the cellular network operator and the specific cell tower being used. IoT deployments looking to leverage this technology need native carrier access. 

How to implement native carrier diversity: global SIM strategies and regional carrier agreements

There are numerous SIM strategies to ensure devices connect to the strongest, most efficient network wherever they operate. Global SIM solutions optimize coverage, enhance uptime, and simplify global deployments. Determining a SIM strategy that aligns with your operational goals is crucial, and early engagement with a connectivity provider can help guide you through the process.

Multi-IMSI SIMs

Multi-IMSI SIMs contain multiple International Mobile Subscriber Identities (IMSIs), allowing a single SIM to act like multiple local subscriptions. This strategy allows devices to maintain connectivity while navigating around the 90-day restrictions many MVNOs place on roaming. Devices can switch profiles automatically when roaming limits are reached. Up to 12 IMSIs can be preloaded on a single device to cover different global regions.

This approach allows uninterrupted service in areas with strict roaming policies, though Multi-IMSI SIM strategies can be rife with complications. Profile switching introduces latency, leading to possible delays in data transmissions, service interruptions, and degraded performance. Furthermore, some multi-IMSI SIM setups are not supported by major carriers, especially within the United States, which significantly limits their utility in a large IoT market like that. Multi-IMSI SIMs are also relatively inefficient, as they keep network connections perpetually active, irrespective of actual usage. Certain carriers, especially those in the United States, do not support multi-IMSI SIMs as they are not an SGPP standard. Some carriers will only support a standard, SGPP-based implementation, and dislike that multi-IMSI SIMs are used to circumvent permanent roaming restrictions. Customers that choose to rely on non-standardized approaches from specific vendors put their deployments at risk of sudden connectivity termination. We’ve been around the industry long enough to hear of stories like the sudden termination of deployments as large as 20,000 active lines.

Global roaming SIMs

Global SIMs allow IoT devices to connect across borders using pre-established roaming agreements with multiple carriers. Through direct relationships with Tier 1 carriers in North America and Europe, Zipit delivers global SIM solutions that connect seamlessly in hundreds of countries. 

Global roaming SIMs support a wide range of technologies, from NB-IoT and LTE-M to the latest 5G standards and emerging technologies like Redcap and LTE Cat 1 bis. They provide continuous connectivity for both IoT and fixed wireless applications.

Global roaming SIMs provide straightforward international coverage without requiring pre-loaded carrier profiles, making them a streamlined alternative to multi-IMSI SIMs. By automatically providing coverage of  local networks via roaming agreements, these SIMs offer flexible, wide-reaching coverage without requiring perpetual SIM swaps, making them ideal for devices that need instant international reach, ongoing flexibility, and minimal management overhead.

eUICC SIMs (eSIMs)

eUICC-enabled SIMs, commonly called eSIMs, also extend flexibility, security, and versatility to international IoT deployments. Once widely available, eSIM’s defining feature is its remote profile management that lets devices download or switch carriers over-the-air (OTA). eUICC SIMs can dynamically acquire new profiles when needed, giving them a high degree of adaptability and facilitating seamless cellular network transitions. This will enable seamless transitions to new carriers without demanding physical SIM replacements. 

This strategy will be perfect for devices with long lifecycles or those deployed in remote, hard-to-access areas, offering secure, adaptable, and fully scalable global connectivity. The devices will benefit from being durable, highly secure, and suitable for a wide array of IoT applications. 

However eSIM rollout and widespread adoption is still in its nascent stages, and there remains much to discover about the implementation of the new technology.

Multi-carrier local SIMs

For devices with high data consumption (30GB–300GB+), OEMs may opt for a localized multi-carrier strategy to guarantee maximized network performance and consistent connectivity. This SIM solution uses individual SIMs from local carriers in each region (e.g., AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile in the US, Vodafone in Europe, Telefónica in Latin America, etc.). By leveraging native carriers, deployments can access high-data plans customized to their individual needs, all while reducing roaming costs.

Multi-carrier SIMs deliver optimized network performance with lower latency and higher throughput. Established localized carrier agreements offer optimized connectivity and reduce costs. Tailored connectivity plans designed for regional data usage ensure cost-effectiveness and high performance. Local agreements also keep deployments compliant with regional regulations around roaming, data storage, and security.

Dual-SIM/multi-SIM hardware

Dual-SIM and multi-SIM devices physically support simultaneous connection to multiple carrier networks, delivering enhanced uptime for critical IoT deployments. This provides immediate carrier failover without latency, making it useful for applications where any downtime can be disastrous, like industrial automation and healthcare. 

Multiple physical SIMs provide highly resilient connectivity capable of maintaining continuous service regardless of network and environmental factors. However, the hardware for these devices is often more complex and costly, and has higher power consumption due to their multiple active network connections. They are also more limiting than other SIM solutions, as the multiple SIM slots need to be incorporated into the device from the outset of the design stage.

What are the challenges of implementing carrier diversity for IoT deployments?

While native carrier diversity delivers powerful benefits for global IoT connectivity, it also introduces new operational and technical challenges. Successfully managing multi-carrier relationships and connectivity strategies is an extremely resource-intensive process that can easily overwhelm IoT OEMs. Every individual carrier is a distinct business with a totally unique approach to connectivity contracts. The more carriers and contracts an IoT OEM engages with, the more complex the enterprise can become. 

Attempting to manage multi-carrier relationships alone frequently adds excessive administrative burden, interferes with deployment timelines, and escalates costs. IoT development teams are often small, and this increased workload can quickly become unmanageable.  

1. Complex SIM management and provisioning

Using multiple carriers or multi-profile SIMs means IoT devices must be properly provisioned, activated, and managed across different networks.

• The challenge: Without a centralized system, this can lead to manual processes for profile switching or updates and potential delays in deployment if provisioning isn’t automated. This is often spread out across multiple platforms. 
• Zipit’s solution: Zipit simplifies SIM management with a single platform for activation, provisioning, and lifecycle management, allowing OEMs to manage diverse SIM strategies at scale with minimal complexity.

2. Managing multiple carrier relationships

Working with carriers adds significant complexity to any IoT deployment.

• The challenge: Carrier diversity often means juggling separate contracts, billing systems, and support processes across multiple operators. This administrative burden can quickly become a detrimental drain on resources and team bandwidth. It can also lead to unanticipated overages, customer confusion, additional support demands, disparate billing dates, and the inability to truly know usage data. 
• Zipit’s solution: Zipit Wireless consolidates carrier relationships, billing, and support into a single point of management, giving you access to global, multi-carrier coverage without negotiating with every carrier individually. We are differentiated in the market by having access to almost the same offerings as carriers. This includes NB-IoT, LTE, 5G NSA & SA, SMS, Voice, pooled and non-pooled plans, premier access to North American carriers and data rates, and so much more.

3. Integration with device firmware and connectivity logic

Supporting native carrier diversity requires your IoT devices to handle network selection, failover, and SIM switching logic. 

• The challenge: If this logic isn’t well-integrated into the device firmware, it can lead to latency during network handovers, connection instability in low-signal or high-mobility scenarios, and increased engineering overhead during development and updates
• Zipit’s solution: Our team provides early guidance on device design and connectivity logic, ensuring your hardware, firmware, and SIM strategy work together to support seamless failover and network resilience.

4. Need for a centralized platform to manage at scale

Even after solving SIM management and network integration, scaling IoT deployments globally adds another layer of complexity. 

• The challenge: OEMs must monitor network performance across carriers, detect and respond to outages quickly, and coordinate firmware and profile updates for thousands of devices.
• Zipit’s solution: We deliver a unified connectivity management platform that provides real-time network insights across carriers, remote profile management and eUICC/eSIM provisioning, and automated network switching to maintain uptime and reduce manual intervention. 

For many IoT deployments, ongoing connectivity is imperative to success. Even brief outages can severely disrupt operations, impact revenue, and lead to data loss and security risks. While native carrier diversity ensures that IoT deployments access reliable localized connections, this does not add the redundancy and failover assurance that many devices require. Redundant carriers ensure connectivity does not fail these applications, regardless of network conditions. 

What is carrier redundancy?

Carrier redundancy is the practice of leveraging multiple cellular carriers within the same region or network to guarantee uninterrupted connectivity. This allows for a high degree of reliability in mission-critical IoT deployments, preserving device uptime and business continuity. With multiple methods of connection, device manufacturers can reduce the risks associated with relying solely on a single provider. 

For example, a business deploying IoT sensors across the United States could use both AT&T and Verizon to access 5G coverage. If one network were to experience an outage or severe congestion, the devices would automatically connect to the alternate network, preserving uptime and performance without manual intervention.

For mission-critical IoT applications like healthcare, security, and cold chain logistics, even brief lapses in coverage can have devastating and even dangerous consequences. Carrier redundancy adds additional layers of protection and resiliency for these businesses. 

What is failover?

Failover is the automatic transition to the redundancy or backup connectivity path whenever the primary connection becomes unstable, degraded, or unavailable. Failover events can happen at various connectivity levels: 

• Network-level failover: Switching from one cellular carrier to another (for example, switching from AT&T 5G to Verizon 5G or T-Mobile 5G). 
• Technology-level failover: Switching between different network technologies (for example, switching from LTE-M down to 3G in countries where the network is still available). 
• Transport-level failover: Switching from cellular connectivity to alternative transports such as Wi-Fi or satellite. 

Each failover type requires different strategic considerations. Network failover preparation requires negotiating contracts with multiple carriers to ensure redundant connectivity across one network. Technology failover requires OEMs to implement network fallback strategies that enable devices to readily connect to 5G, 4G LTE, and LPWANs.

Successful failover strategies ensure that devices automatically detect connectivity issues and seamlessly transition to alternative connections, minimizing downtime and disruptions without requiring manual intervention. 

Why carrier redundancy matters for IoT deployments

For many autonomously operating IoT devices, connectivity failures are costly, risky, and potentially even dangerous. Carrier redundancy and failover mechanisms are essential to keeping devices online regardless of external conditions. 

1. Ensures uptime in mission-critical applications

From home healthcare to surveillance and security to industrial automation, many IoT devices perform tasks that cannot afford connectivity lapses. Mere minutes of downtime can lead to service disruption, lost data, and compromised safety. Carrier redundancy ensures that if one network connection goes down, another is immediately available to keep vital systems running. 

2. Mitigate risks from network outages, congestion, and restrictions

Carrier networks can experience congestion, outages, maintenance windows, and impose regulatory restrictions (like permanent roaming limitations). Without a fallback network or redundant connection, devices may lose service entirely. Carrier redundancy and failover mechanisms allow devices to dynamically switch to alternate carriers or technologies, avoiding failures and maintaining consistent service levels.

Unlike Zipit, many MVNOs can only offer carrier redundancy in a single SIM through roaming agreements. Those solutions have severe limitations, such as the inability to offer high-data Fixed Wireless plans, full network capabilities for low-power use cases, and permanent roaming permissions. Zipit Wireless offers their customers authorized connectivity and SIM solutions directly from carriers, greatly fortifying the reliability of their carrier diversity strategies.

3. Supports mobility and broad geographic coverage

Many IoT devices are highly mobile, deployed in trucks, ships, smart containers, and border-traversing fleets of all types. Connectivity must remain seamless, even as devices move across regions with different carriers and coverage maps. Redundancy and failover strategies dynamically connect devices to a strong local network, ensuring consistent coverage without perpetual manual reconfigurations. 

What are the best practices for designing a carrier redundancy strategy?

A well-designed redundancy strategy is more nuanced than merely having a second network available. It’s also about ensuring seamless continuity, cost efficiency, and compliance when failover occurs. Implementing redundancy the right way requires a proactive, structured approach.

1. Design for "graceful degradation"

In some cases, full connectivity restoration might take a few seconds or require falling back to a lower-performance network. Graceful degradation means maintaining partial functionality during the transition, enabling devices to still perform critical operations even if certain features are temporarily unavailable. For example, a telematics device might send minimal GPS coordinates during a network switch, delaying non-essential data uploads until the connection stabilizes.

2. Use SIMs with native access if appropriate

Carrier-agnostic SIM solutions, such as multi-network SIMs, eUICC/eSIM profiles, or multi-IMSI SIMs, allow devices to connect to the strongest available local carrier without being locked into a single provider but have some limitations in certain contexts. Native access can require better management to operationalize but can ensure strong performance, lower latency, and avoids permanent roaming restrictions in certain markets. This approach can also make scaling to new regions simpler and faster in some contexts.

3. Implement smart selection logic at the firmware level

Firmware-based network selection logic ensures devices make intelligent, policy-driven decisions about when and how to switch connections. This logic should account for signal strength, latency, packet loss, and cost when deciding to trigger failover.

Overly aggressive switching can drive up costs; overly conservative switching can result in service degradation. Getting the balance right is essential.

4. Conduct regular redundancy testing and simulation

Failover shouldn’t be a “set it and forget it” feature. Schedule testing to simulate outages, carrier degradations, or regulatory restrictions to confirm that devices respond as intended.

This validation ensures firmware logic, SIM provisioning, and carrier configurations are all functioning properly under real-world conditions.

5. Partner with connectivity providers for centralized device management and global reach

Managing multiple carriers, SIM profiles, and failover policies at scale is challenging without a centralized connectivity management platform. A trusted provider like Zipit Wireless consolidates multiple carrier relationships and provides essential real-time analytics. This partnership enables OEMs to focus on product innovation instead of network troubleshooting and simplifies device management at scale. 

What are the challenges of building a carrier redundancy and failover strategy?

While the benefits of carrier redundancy and failover are clear, from maximized uptime, improved resilience, and better user experience, the path to implementation is complex. Carrier redundancy means managing multiple carrier relationships, sometimes spanning across different regions. This introduces a new level of administrative complexity. IoT OEMs must navigate a multitude of technical, operational, and regulatory obstacles that can easily cause confusion and frustration. Without the industry-informed expertise offered by a specialized connectivity partnership, these challenges can create costly bottlenecks and derail global expansion efforts.  

How a connectivity partnership with Zipit Wireless solves carrier redundancy challenges 

When OEMs try to build carrier redundancy strategies alone, they often get caught in a web of vendor complexity, operational inefficiencies, and technical missteps. With Zipit as a strategic partner, carrier redundancy and failover not only becomes attainable, but overall operations become scalable, affordable, and future-ready. 

1. Simplified navigation of multi-carrier ecosystems

Zipit acts as a connectivity intermediary, managing relationships across a range of Tier-1 carriers and streamlining complexities behind the scenes. Every carrier has its own back-end SIM platform (like AT&T’s Control Center, Verizon’s ThingSpace, Vodafone’s GDSP, etc.), each with its unique provisioning protocols and APIs. Zipit consolidates this landscape, providing a single interface and unified experience, regardless of the underlying carrier technology. 

Through our connectivity management platform and our highly engaged partnerships with clients, Zipit offers a “single pane” view into operations that transforms how IoT companies conduct their business.  We help manage the carrier variance in events like real-time failover triggers, analytics reporting, and coverage maps. You get granular control over device management, data usage tracking, monetization models, and deployment scope. The standardized workflow encourages rapid, sustainable, and effective global launches.  

2. Unified visibility into billing, contract terms, and rates

Juggling multiple contracts with different carriers, each with varying minimum order quantities (MOQs), minimum revenue commitments (MRCs), billing cycles, and rate plans, places enormous strain on IoT companies' internal capacity. Zipit Wireless aids OEMs by aggregating usage metrics, simplifying billing across carriers, and crafting flexible plans tailored to their real-world applications. This helps OEMs establish financial predictability despite the high degree of variability that accompanies global IoT deployments. 

Disjointed billing cycles can be difficult for OEMs to track when they’re attempting to operationalize and schedule how much to bill their end users. Zipit’s connectivity management platform and streamlined billing solutions offload the complexity that accompanies subscription models and allows customers to easily monetize their connectivity offering.  

3. Access to premium pricing models and data plans

IoT OEMs are rarely able to negotiate the most favorable costs without intermediaries. At Zipit, the only authorized, IoT-focused MVNO with 10 direct carrier partners, we leverage our extensive relationships with carriers to provide our customers with unmatched pricing. 

Additionally, we are able to provide high data rate plans for many of our customers. This is an undertaking that is extremely challenging to pursue without an experienced connectivity partner, and one that invariably ends up being prohibitively costly.

We also save our clients significant capital through helping them make the correct connectivity and carrier diversification decisions from the beginning stages, averting costly hardware redesigns, product recalls, and other expensive pivots that OEMs are forced to make when they miscalculate their needs. This is why ideally OEMs should partner with Zipit when they’re picking cellular modules, though Zipit is able to assist customers regardless of where they are in the deployment process. 

4. Support for diverse SIM strategies and OTA provisioning

Zipit Wireless supports OEMs in navigating the complexities that accompany strategizing and implementing global SIM solutions across carriers and networks. Every IoT deployment has a different path to optimal global connectivity. This requires complex carrier negotiations, device hardware design choices, and an intimate understanding of SIM card nuances. Without guidance, IoT companies often make choices that limit their future growth potential, global availability, and network options. 

Zipit offers both initial strategic guidance as well as ongoing support. We continuously expand our offerings to adapt to the innovations reshaping the market. This ensures long-term flexibility, positioning devices to adapt to market conditions, carrier changes, and regulatory shifts throughout their lifecycle. Zipit’s diverse SIM solutions eliminate the need to physically replace cards and extend customized connectivity options designed for each client’s needs.

Zipit has proven deployment success at scale. We bring deep experience deploying carrier redundancy strategies across a range of verticals. OEMs benefit from field-tested best practices, accelerated time to market, and reduced engineering lift thanks to Zipit’s strategic guidance and end-to-end support.