International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)

Volume: 07 Issue: 07 | July - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

Synergistic Integration of LPWAN technology and Edge Computing: Enhancing IoT

Applications for Real-time Analytics and Low-Latency

Jatin Garg*, Ashutosh Kumar Singh, Chandan

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, Institute of Engineering and Technology,
Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India [email protected]*,
[email protected], [email protected]

Abstract
The integration of Low-Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) and Edge Computing presents a
promising approach for enhancing Internet of Things (IoT) applications, specifically by enabling real-
time analytics and low-latency processing. This research paper aims to investigate the synergistic
integration of LPWAN and Edge Computing and its impact on IoT applications. Through a thorough
analysis of existing literature, case studies, and experimental evaluations, the study explores the
benefits, challenges, and implementation strategies associated with this integration. The findings
emphasize the potential for improved performance, scalability, and efficiency in IoT deployments.
Valuable insights and recommendations are provided to effectively leverage the synergies between
LPWAN and Edge Computing, unlocking the full potential of real-time analytics and low-latency
processing in IoT applications.
Keywords: LPWAN, Edge Computing, IoT applications, real-time analytics, low-latency

Introduction
The growth of Internet of Things (IoT) devices has revolutionized various industries, generating vast amounts
of data that require efficient handling and processing. To obtain full potential of IoT applications, there is a
need for seamless connectivity and real-time analytics capabilities. In this context, the integration of Low-
Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) with Edge Computing has emerged as a compelling solution. LPWAN
technologies provide long-range, low-power connectivity, while Edge Computing brings computational
power and analytics closer to the data source. IoT applications can benefit greatly from the combination of
LPWAN and Edge Computing. Organisations may increase data processing rates, decrease latency, and
improve scalability by combining the extensive coverage and energy efficiency of LPWAN with the localised
processing and real-time analytics capabilities of Edge Computing. In applications like industrial automation,
smart cities, and remote asset monitoring, where real-time decision-making and low-latency reaction times
are essential, this connection is especially beneficial. Over the past ten years, LPWAN have undergone
substantial research, leading to the development of numerous LPWAN-related protocols [1]-[5]. With respect
to the big data produced by the exponentially growing number of connected devices, new computational
paradigms, such edge computing, have been used to create system architectures [6].
There are several difficulties when LPWAN and Edge Computing are combined, though. These include
managing resource allocation at the edge, tackling the complexities of heterogeneous networks, protecting
data security and privacy, and streamlining data transfer between LPWAN devices and edge servers. It takes
careful design, strong architectures, and effective protocols to overcome these obstacles. This research paper

© 2023, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM24420 | Page 1

 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 07 | July - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

focuses on exploring the integration of LPWAN with Edge Computing and its implications for IoT
applications.
The significance of integrating LPWAN and Edge Computing for IoT applications
• Real-time analytics: By bringing computation closer to the edge devices, LPWAN and Edge
Computing integration enable real-time data analysis and decision-making.
• Low-latency processing: By lowering latency through data processing at the edge, time-sensitive
applications may respond faster and take action when it is needed.
• Scalability and bandwidth optimization: The integration of LPWAN with Edge Computing enables
distributed data processing, improving both scalability and bandwidth efficiency.
• Reduced network traffic and cost: Edge processing reduces unnecessary data transmission,
minimizing network traffic and associated costs.
• Improved reliability and resilience: The integration enhances reliability by enabling edge devices to
continue processing data even during network disruptions, ensuring uninterrupted operation.
There are still a number of gaps and restrictions that need to be filled in the integration of LPWAN and Edge
Computing for IoT applications. The necessity for standardization to guarantee interoperability between
various LPWAN technologies and Edge Computing frameworks is one of these. Data integrity and
authentication are also significant areas of study for security and privacy issues. Furthermore, ensuring cost-
effectiveness while installing the integrated system and optimizing resource allocation in edge devices with
limited resources present difficulties. The successful implementation and utilization of LPWAN and Edge
Computing integration in IoT applications will be facilitated by streamlining system design, establishing
assessment criteria, and addressing these gaps.

LOW POWER WIDE AREA NETWORKS

The field of Internet of Things (IoT) applications has seen a substantial traction in Low-Power Wide Area
Network (LPWAN) technologies. The various LPWAN technologies, such as LoRaWAN, NB-IoT, and
Sigfox, are discussed in this section, with an emphasis on their key traits, advantages, and application cases.
The emphasis is on how LPWAN offers long-range, low-power communication, making it a great option for
Internet of Things (IoT) devices across a variety of industries.
• LoRaWAN: Long Range Wide Area Network makes use of chirp spread spectrum modulation. It has
a great range that enables IoT devices to communicate over distances of many kilometres, even in
populated areas. LoRaWAN offers IoT applications cost-effective deployment choices because it uses
unlicensed spectrum. It is suited for a variety of use applications, including smart agriculture, asset
tracking, and smart cities, because to its low power consumption and scalability [2].
• NB-IoT: Narrowband IoT is a 3GPP-standard cellular LPWAN technology. It uses licenced spectrum,
enhancing security and dependability. Deep indoor coverage and increased battery life made by NB-
IoT make it perfect for applications like smart metering, industrial monitoring, and logistics that need
dependable connectivity in difficult settings.
• Sigfox: Another LPWAN solution that uses unlicensed spectrum is Sigfox. It makes use of ultra-
narrowband technology, which offers outstanding energy economy and long-distance
communication. Sigfox is best suited for low-cost, low-data-rate applications including supply chain
management, asset tracking, and environmental monitoring [3].

© 2023, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM24420 | Page 2

 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 07 | July - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

❖ LPWAN Benefits for IoT Connectivity

• Long-range coverage: LPWAN makes it possible to communicate across great distances, expanding
the potential of IoT applications.
• Low power usage: LPWAN devices can run for years on batteries, reducing the requirement for
routine maintenance or a power source.
• Cost-effectiveness: When compared to conventional cellular networks, LPWAN technologies offer
affordable connectivity solutions.
• Scalability: LPWAN networks are suited for extensive IoT installations since they can support a high
number of devices.

Figure 1: Use cases of LPWAN technologies [9]

© 2023, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM24420 | Page 3

 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 07 | July - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

LPWAN Power
Technology Range Data Rate Consumption Use Cases
Smart cities, asset tracking,
LoRaWAN Long Low Low environmental monitoring
Smart metering, industrial
NB-IoT Moderate Moderate Low monitoring, agriculture
Asset tracking, supply chain
Sigfox Global Low Ultra-low management, security
Smart cities, industrial
Weightless Long High Low automation, transportation
Smart agriculture, healthcare,
LTE-M Wide High Moderate asset tracking
Table 1: Comparison of different LPWAN technologies

EDGE COMPUTING
Edge computing is the decentralised processing and data storing that takes place at or close to the network
edge. It tries to lessen reliance on centralised cloud infrastructure, network traffic, and latency. Edge nodes,
edge analytics, and edge devices are important ideas. Edge nodes are computational units that process and
analyse data at the edge, whereas edge devices are IoT devices or sensors that generate data. Edge analytics
includes making decisions and conducting data analysis closer to the data source.

Figure 2: Used Cases of MEC Architecture [8]

© 2023, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM24420 | Page 4

 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 07 | July - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

Figure 3: Mobile edge computing reference architecture [8]

❖ Advantages of Edge Computing
• Reduced latency: Edge Computing reduces the latency associated with delivering data to distant
cloud servers by processing data closer to the edge devices. Faster response times are made possible
by this, making it perfect for time-sensitive applications like industrial automation and driverless
vehicles.
• Real-time analytics: By processing data locally, edge computing enables real-time data analysis and
decision-making. As a result, operational efficiency is increased, and real-time analytics are made
possible for a variety of applications.
• Bandwidth optimisation: By performing data filtering and aggregation at the edge, edge computing
lowers the amount of data transported to the cloud. Through this optimisation, network traffic is
decreased, capacity utilisation is increased, and data transfer costs are decreased.

❖ Edge Computing Architectures and Technologies

• Fog computing: Fog computing provides resources for data processing, storage, and analytics by
extending the cloud computing paradigm to the network edge. It seeks to assist real-time data analysis
and decision-making and low-latency applications.
• Mobile Edge Computing (MEC): MEC incorporates computing resources within the framework of
the mobile network. As a result, latency is reduced and novel edge-based use cases are made possible.
It permits the execution of applications and services at the mobile network's edge [8].
• Edge AI: Edge AI combines capabilities of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Edge Computing. It
allows for the execution of AI models and data processing at the edge, boosting the effectiveness of
AI-driven applications and enabling intelligent decision-making in real-time.

© 2023, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM24420 | Page 5

 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 07 | July - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

Integration of LPWAN and Edge Computing

In IoT applications, LPWAN and Edge Computing demonstrate synergistic properties that make them very
complementary. Long-range, low-power connectivity offered by LPWAN makes it possible for IoT devices
and the network infrastructure to communicate without interruption. Contrarily, edge computing enables real-
time analytics and low-latency processing by bringing computation and data processing closer to the edge
devices. The combination of LPWAN with Edge Computing builds on each technology's advantages and
creates a robust and effective IoT ecosystem.

Figure 4: Architecture with integration of Edge Computing [7]

The additional layer of Edge-assisted gateway proposed the architecture. In more detail, sensor nodes can
gather various data and send it to an Edge-assisted gateway through Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), nRF, or
IPv6 via Low-Power Wireless Personal Area Networks (6LoWPAN). The Edge-assisted gateway frequently
has high-computation hardware, is permanently installed, and runs on socket power or a sizable battery [7].
As a result, the Edge-assisted gateway may run complicated algorithms while continuing to function for a
long time. These protocols have a theoretical maximum data rate of 250 kbps and a practical maximum of
150 kbps [10]-[11], while using only about 70 mW of electricity. Therefore, these are appropriate for high
data rate applications like ECG monitoring. Extra hardware modules (such as nRF, 6LoWPAN, or BLE) can
be introduced into one or more Edge-assisted gateways, depending on the application, when the number of
sensor nodes considerably rises. Wi-fi can be utilised as the primary wireless communication method
between sensor nodes and Edge gateways in situations where an application demands an extraordinarily high
data rate, such as video streaming. However, this leads to a rise in the energy use of sensor nodes.

© 2023, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM24420 | Page 6

 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 07 | July - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

Benefits Description
Low-latency Edge computing makes it possible to analyse data more quickly and close to the point
processing of origin, reduce network latency, and enable real-time or almost real-time analytics.
Faster decision-making and response times are made possible by the combination of
Real-time LPWAN with Edge Computing, which enables instantaneous analysis and insights
analytics from IoT data.
In order to effectively process and store enormous volumes of data produced by
Scalability LPWAN-enabled devices, edge computing offers a scalable infrastructure.
Enhanced security Sensitive data can be locally analysed and filtered while being processed at the edge,
and privacy lowering the possibility of data breaches and preserving data privacy.
Improved High availability and dependability are provided by LPWAN with Edge Computing
reliability and by reducing reliance on centralised cloud servers. Even in the case of network outages
availability or disruptions, operations can continue thanks to local data processing at the edge..
Efficient resource Edge computing reduces the requirement for sending massive volumes of data to the
utilization and cloud by processing data locally to optimise resource utilisation. As a result,
cost optimization bandwidth expenses are decreased, and overall effectiveness is increased.
Table 2: Benefits of integration of LPWAN with Edge Computing
There are several approaches by which we can integrate edge computing with LPWANs:
• LPWAN gateway deployment enables direct communication between LPWAN devices and edge
servers by placing the gateways at the edge. Real-time analytics are made possible by this method's
localised data collection and processing, which also lowers latency.
• Using Edge Servers-To perform data processing and analytics activities, edge servers are put at the
network's edge. Low-latency responses and in-the-moment insights are made possible by LPWAN
devices, which send data to the edge servers for immediate processing and analysis.
• Utilising Edge Analytics- At the edge, real-time analysis and decision-making are carried out using
edge analytics frameworks. The edge analytics platform receives data from LPWAN devices and
applies powerful analytics and machine learning algorithms for quick understanding and response.

Challenges and Considerations

There are numerous advantages for IoT applications when Low-Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) and
Edge Computing are combined. However, this integration also brings with it a number of issues that need to
be taken into account.
Network Structure
• designing an optimal network architecture, taking device connectivity and topology into account.
• network load balancing to maintain performance and scalability.
Security:
• protecting data in transit and at rest and securing edge devices.
• putting strong intrusion detection, encryption, and authentication systems in place.
Data Management
• between edge nodes and the cloud, data is gathered, filtered, and synchronised.

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 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 07 | July - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

• efficient data processing, analytics, and storage from the Internet of Things.
Interoperability:
• LPWAN protocol compatibility with edge hardware and Edge Computing frameworks.
• using open standards and industry-wide guidelines to ensure easy integration.

❖ Approaches and Solutions

• Network optimization: It is the process of streamlining network protocols and architecture to improve
communication.
• Security frameworks: Implementing authentication, encryption, and detection of intrusions.
• Edge data processing and analytics: Using edge-based frameworks for effective data handling.
• Standardization and interoperability: Supporting open protocols and standards across the industry.

Conclusion
The integration of LPWAN technologies with Edge Computing has demonstrated great potential in enhancing
IoT applications by enabling real-time analytics and low-latency processing. Long-range, low-power
communication for IoT devices is provided by LPWAN technologies like LoRaWAN, NB-IoT, and Sigfox,
making them appropriate for a variety of use cases. However, edge computing enables real-time insights and
quick responses by bringing processing and data storage closer to the network edge.
For IoT applications, the combination of LPWAN with Edge Computing has many advantages. Organisations
may improve performance, reduce latency, and increase scalability by combining the vast coverage and
energy efficiency of LPWAN with the localised data processing and analytics capabilities of Edge
Computing. With real-time analytics, low-latency processing, and increased scalability enabled by this
integration, IoT applications are improved. It enables businesses to make the most of the potential of their
IoT implementations.

Declarations
Author’s Contribution
All the author’s read and approved the final manuscript.
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
Funding
No funding was received to assist with the preparation of this manuscript.

© 2023, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM24420 | Page 8

 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 07 | July - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

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