LoRaWAN Roaming for Utilities: How to Connect to Multiple Network Operators

What Is LoRaWAN Roaming and Why Is It Important for the Utility Sector?

Unlike traditional roaming in mobile networks, where you can continue using services on another operator’s network, LoRaWAN roaming is a mechanism that allows devices to transmit data via third-party base stations (commonly referred to as LoRaWAN gateways) without switching to a new operator. A meter configured to work in one network can send its data through another network’s infrastructure, provided there is a roaming agreement in place.

For utility companies, this network interoperability opens up new opportunities, as there’s no need to be restricted to a single network provider or depend on the density of LoRaWAN coverage in a specific district. Instead, roaming allows devices to connect to the nearest available base station within a low power wide-area network, regardless of its ownership — something that’s especially useful in areas with patchy coverage or in new housing developments where infrastructure is still being deployed.

Practical Applications of LoRaWAN Roaming: Use Cases and Opportunities

Imagine a property developer commissioning several residential buildings on the city outskirts. One building is in the coverage area of network operator A, another is in the area of operator B. Without roaming, the developer would have to negotiate with each operator separately, configure the equipment accordingly, and integrate the data into a unified system — a process that complicates management, increases costs, and introduces risks during transitions.

With roaming and LoRaWAN connectivity, the developer can install standardized devices with identical firmware and settings, all connected to a single network server. The devices will automatically transmit data through any available compatible network, while authentication, security, and data routing are handled on the backend side — controlled either by the customer or their solution provider.

For municipalities and homeowners’ associations, LoRaWAN integration means the ability to quickly deploy metering systems in residential properties without waiting for network expansion. In the case of smart meters, they will begin operating as soon as they are within range of any participating LoRaWAN network.

How Roaming Works Technically: Backend and Protocols

Technically, LoRaWAN roaming is implemented through communication between network operators’ servers, where one of several standards defined by the LoRa Alliance is used: passive roaming, handover roaming, or shared join server. The most common standard is passive roaming, where the device is registered with a “home” network but transmits data via “visited” networks, simply forwarding the data packets to the home server.

Data exchange between servers occurs via secure channels, with mandatory authentication and encryption. Device identity and security keys remain with the home network or the system owner, which is essential for utility companies in terms of data protection and compliance with security standards.

To enable roaming, all parties must support compatible protocols, such as LoRaWAN Backend Interfaces v1.1 or higher, and have data-sharing agreements in place. In some countries, unified LoRaWAN network spaces are being established, simplifying inter-operator collaboration through associations and industry frameworks.

Business Benefits: Flexibility, Scalability, and Cost Savings

The main advantage of LoRaWAN roaming is flexibility. Cross network device communication allows utility and property management companies to gain the ability to expand their IoT infrastructure without being tied to a specific network provider. This is especially valuable when facilities are located in various geographic zones, including rural or remote areas.

Additionally, the cost of deployment is significantly reduced because there is no need to duplicate infrastructure, pay for multiple platform connections, or maintain fragmented systems. All data flows into a single metering platform, enabling centralized device management. Administrative hurdles are lowered, and projects (whether pilot or large-scale) can launch more quickly.

Lastly, roaming also enhances system reliability for remote consumption tracking. Multi-network LoRaWAN means that If one network experiences an outage or temporary downtime, the device can use another available one to transmit data. This increases overall system resilience and reduces the risk of data loss.

What You Need to Implement It: Equipment, Support, and Partners

To take advantage of LoRaWAN data roaming for smart meters, it’s essential to ensure that the equipment — radios, meters, gateways — supports the appropriate protocol versions and is capable of operating in a multi-network environment. Modern LoRaWAN sensors and radio modules available on our website are already designed for such scenarios and are certified to work in roaming-enabled systems.

It’s also important to select a network integrator or operator that offers roaming as a service and has agreements with other providers. Many such integrators offer convenient platforms where you can monitor which networks your traffic is routed through, configure routing rules, and manage your device fleet centrally.

LoRaWAN roaming is not just a convenient feature, it’s a valuable tool for optimizing costs and improving efficiency in remote utility monitoring and metering. Its implementation, particularly in municipal smart metering and IoT infrastructure for utilities, enables faster digitalization, removes technical constraints, and improves service quality for end users.