Exploring open source and proprietary LoRa mesh technologies

Abstract

This paper explores low power wide area network (LPWAN) LoRa and its diverse variants, encompassing open-source and proprietary wireless mesh networks, operating over the physical LoRa or LoRaWAN layer. The primary challenge lies in defining an optimal LoRa mesh solution that balances cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, low latency, long-range capability, and security. This study also comprehensively examines key LoRa mesh solutions from 2017 to 2024, as proposed by various authors. Furthermore, a detailed analysis is conducted to contrast open-source and commercial solutions, considering their applications, limitations, issues, characteristics, and pros and cons of mesh routing protocols. In the current landscape, the proliferation of open-source and proprietary LoRa mesh solutions has been instrumental in facilitating the connectivity of internet of things (IoT) devices. However, these solutions pose challenges related to energy consumption, latency, and suboptimal transmission throughput. These challenges are influenced by various LoRa characteristics such as spectrum factor, bandwidth, and transmission power, which directly impact the transmission range. Our research aims to perform a comparative analysis of existing LoRa mesh solutions by, systematically studying their advantages and disadvantages. This analysis offers valuable insights for making informed choices among these solutions in diverse domains for IoT applications.