NIDD in NB-IoT: What is Non-IP Data Delivery?

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.