Most internet communication relies on IP packets. But in IoT, not every device needs or can afford the overhead of IP. That’s why Non-IP Data Delivery (NIDD) exists — a method to send data over cellular networks without requiring a full IP stack.
What is NIDD?, How NIDD Works, NIDD Benefits for NB-IoT.
NIDD allows IoT devices to exchange messages with applications directly via the control plane of the cellular network, bypassing IP.
Benefits include:
- Very low overhead — no need for TCP/IP or TLS.
- High efficiency for tiny, infrequent messages.
- Built-in security from the mobile network itself.
Relevance to NB-IoT
For NB-IoT, NIDD is a game-changer because:
- Devices save power by avoiding heavy IP sessions.
- Bandwidth usage is minimized.
- Deployment is simplified since devices don’t need IP addressing.
This makes it ideal for massive IoT deployments with ultra-low data needs.
Common Use Cases
- Smart metering with small, periodic updates.
- Alarm and emergency notifications.
- Simple tracking devices.
- Utility infrastructure monitoring.
Key Takeaways
NIDD strips communication down to the essentials. By removing IP overhead, it makes NB-IoT deployments more efficient, cost-effective, and battery-friendly, especially for devices that only send tiny amounts of data occasionally.