1. 5G/4G Cellular Connectivity

Industrial routers use 5G/4G/3G networks to establish wireless wide-area network (WWAN) connections, enabling geographically dispersed devices to communicate via carrier infrastructure.

• Applications: Remote monitoring of ATMs, vending machines, power equipment, and distributed sensors.
• Key Difference: Cellular connectivity excels in mobility and wide-area coverage, making it ideal for harsh or remote environments where Wi-Fi is unavailable.

 

2. Wi-Fi Local Area Networking

Industrial routers act as wireless local area network (WLAN) hotspots, providing Wi-Fi connectivity for nearby industrial devices.

• Applications: AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles), mining vehicles, public transportation Wi-Fi systems, and factory-floor device clusters.
• Key Difference: Wi-Fi prioritizes local high-speed data transfer but has limited range compared to cellular.

3. VPN Virtual Networking

Industrial routers use VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) to create secure, encrypted connections between distributed devices, forming a unified virtual network.

• Applications: Cross-site SCADA systems, remote video surveillance, and secure integration with industrial software platforms.
• Key Difference: VPNs prioritize security and scalability for multi-location operations, ensuring data integrity over public networks.

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KEY-IOT Industrial Routers

KEY-IOT’s industrial routers (e.g., the ZR5000 4G Industrial Router) leverage cellular networks to deliver high-speed, stable, and secure internet access for field devices. Features include:

• Multi-network redundancy: Seamless switching between 5G/4G, Wi-Fi, and VPN modes.
• Low-latency transmission: Optimized for real-time data exchange in automation and control systems.
• Industrial-grade durability: Operates in extreme temperatures (-40°C to 75°C) with EMI/EMC protection.
• Enhanced security: Supports WPA3, IPsec/L2TP VPNs, and carrier-grade encryption to safeguard critical infrastructure.

By combining 5G/4G industrial routers with Wi-Fi and VPN capabilities, enterprises achieve flexible, reliable connectivity solutions tailored for mission-critical IIoT applications.