Private LTE Based on CBRS

Digi's private LTE networks are based on the same protocols as public networks. Small cells that are on site are operated by a managed service provider, the owner, or an enterprise customer. This is typically at a lower cost than a public network and has better reliability and performance. This network can reach through building walls and other obstacles that can potentially block a Wi-Fi signal. It occupies 150 MHz in the 3.5 GHz C-band, or Band 48. Traditionally, this band was only used for US military and fixed satellites. Digi is a member of the CBRS Alliance, which is a non-profit organization that develops and promotes CBRS technology.

A major benefit of using private LTE is that it is a secure, exclusive network in an uncrowded spectrum. This is important for highly-regulated industries such as finance and healthcare. The SIM-level device security ensures that devices have a unique identifier and are properly authenticated, allowing network administrators tight control of what devices are on the network. Another key benefit is the quality of service. Typically, cellular technology provides a better quality of connection than Wi-Fi. It gives the network administrator control of how data traffic is prioritized. Using the small cells, there is no connection loss with private LTE as there can be with Wi-Fi. Enterprise customers will have lower data transfer costs with private versus public LTE. This is important when there are high data volumes.