From the early days of cellular IoT, a key challenge for many Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and end-user adopters alike has been how to arrange for cellular connectivity to be provided to devices that are not located within that MNO’s cellular network coverage.
Initially, simple cellular roaming arrangements were adopted, as might be used to support a consumer’s mobile handset as they travel to different countries. Such approaches saw data roaming traffic Home Routed (HR) via the sponsoring MNO before breakout to external networks, servers or the internet. However, simple cellular roaming arrangements are no longer fit for purpose in many circumstances and more sophisticated arrangements are required to support the demands of more sophisticated IoT applications and also to comply with evolving regulations.
Cellular network standards are also evolving and frameworks for 5G Standalone roaming are unlike those that have gone before. Meanwhile, Local Breakout (LBO) solutions have emerged to help address performance and regulatory challenges in the context of both 5G and 4G networks so that data traffic no longer needs to be routed via a home network.
This report addresses a number of related topics, including established and emerging approaches to supporting roaming connections, regulatory, performance and other challenges with Home Routing, vendor propositions for local breakout, and vendor propositions in a 5G context.
