What is NTN?

Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) are communication networks that use satellites. Whereas traditional networks rely on land-based cell towers, NTN solutions bring connectivity to hard-to-reach areas such as remote locations, seas, or sparsely populated regions. Since Release 17, NTN has been part of the 5G standard defined by 3GPP, focusing on extending network coverage beyond terrestrial infrastructures.

How does NTN work?

NTN uses various types of technologies and infrastructures, including Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, High Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS), and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). These infrastructures significantly expand network coverage because they are not limited by physical obstacles such as terrain or urban buildings. Unlike traditional networks, NTN solutions often require specialized equipment, such as terminal antennas capable of tracking moving objects and accounting for Doppler effects.

What are the applications of NTN?

NTN technology has various use cases, especially in sectors where connectivity via traditional networks is challenging. For example, NTN can be deployed in maritime communication, where reliable connectivity is essential for navigation and safety. In the aviation sector, NTN offers additional opportunities to improve air traffic communication with higher bandwidth and lower latency. NTN is also relevant for IoT applications such as asset tracking, agricultural sensor networks, and infrastructure monitoring in remote areas.

Key application areas include:

• NTN provides reliable connectivity at sea for ships, enabling continuous communication even far from shore.
• The aviation sector benefits from NTN through improved flight safety, more efficient routes, and real-time data exchange between aircraft and air traffic control.
• In remote areas, such as mountainous terrain or rural regions, NTN makes it possible to effectively connect IoT sensors and devices.

What advantages does NTN offer organizations?

NTN technology enables organizations to achieve network coverage in new locations and under challenging conditions. This allows businesses to expand their IoT solutions and optimize their services. NTN improves communication reliability and continuity, especially in situations where traditional networks fall short.

The main benefits of NTN at a glance:

• Organizations are less dependent on terrestrial infrastructure, resulting in more flexibility and broader applicability for IoT solutions.
• NTN increases the reliability and stability of network connections in areas where conventional coverage is insufficient.
• Organizations can respond more quickly to emergencies and operational challenges thanks to the increased reliability of connectivity through NTN solutions.

What are the challenges of NTN?

Although NTN offers a powerful extension to traditional network connectivity, its implementation also brings challenges. These include the technical complexity of integrating satellite and terrestrial systems. NTN also requires specific equipment and expert knowledge of satellite communication and related protocols. Additionally, managing NTN networks—including satellite and drone coordination—demands a well-organized infrastructure and specialized expertise.

What does the future of NTN look like?

NTN is playing an increasingly important role in the ongoing development of 5G and future 6G networks. The ability to provide seamless connectivity regardless of location is crucial for the next generation of communication solutions. According to GSMA, NTN applications will grow significantly in areas such as smart cities, autonomous mobility, and precision agriculture, increasing the importance of NTN technologies.

Further integration with existing network standards and infrastructure is making NTN solutions more accessible, enabling more organizations to benefit from connectivity that was previously impossible.

The role of NTN in IoT projects

For organizations active in IoT, NTN offers unique added value. IoT projects become feasible in areas without fixed network coverage, opening up new opportunities. NTN contributes to a more robust IoT infrastructure and a broader applicability of IoT devices.

By deploying NTN technology, organizations can effectively address the following challenges:

• IoT device connectivity is guaranteed, regardless of location, increasing the reliability and availability of data.
• Operational risks from network outages are significantly reduced thanks to the independent nature of NTN infrastructures.

NTN as a driving force behind future connectivity

NTN technology marks a fundamental shift in the telecom sector, making network coverage independent of traditional limitations such as geographic location or infrastructure. By integrating satellites and aerial platforms with existing networks, organizations can greatly expand their reach and impact. NTN creates new opportunities to improve business processes and increase communication reliability, regardless of external conditions.

Interested in how NTN technology can help your organization achieve reliable connectivity where traditional networks fall short?
Contact us at +31-85-0443500 or send an email to info@thingsdata.com. We would be happy to discuss the right solution for your situation.