what is an APN

When we buy a mobile phone, we jump right in to explore the new camera, high-resolution display, and more. Have you also noticed the messages from your network carrier with a set of numbers and other settings? That is Access Point Name (APN) - your ticket to explore the world of the internet directly from your mobile phone.

What is APN?

We consume the internet every day, particularly through mobile. But before you can access your mobile's 4G or 5G internet, you need an APN established. In simple terms, Access Point Name (APN) is the link between the user's mobile network and the internet. Think of it as the modern-day modem for mobile. Ensuring that this is set up correctly helps you connect to mobile data or send MMS. Basically, APN connects a mobile device to the internet and ensures the connection is private and secure.

Assign a dynamic or static IP address to the mobile

Why do we need an APN?

APN is an integral component of establishing a connection with your mobile carrier. APN carries the necessary information blocks, your phone uses to connect with your carrier's network. Access Point Names have two main elements:

  • A network identifier
  • An operator identifier

The network identifier in an APN is mandatory. It indicates the external Public Data Network (PDN) that the Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN) is connected to and the services the subscriber wishes to access. The network identifier is provided by a GPRS user or can also be predefined in a GPRS terminal. To use an analogy, a network identifier is a waiter that informs the chef about the orders placed by the customer, where PDN is the chef here and GGSN is the customer.

The operator identifier includes two other components: the Mobile Network Code (MNC) and the Mobile Country Code (MCC). While the MNC is unique to the carrier, the MCC is based on the carrier's region. Typically, the MNC and MCC are three digits each.

The good news is that unless there is an actual connectivity issue, as a consumer smartphone user, you really needn’t bother about modifying/altering the APN settings. Network providers send these settings via SMS once the device logs onto their network and the configuration takes effect with the simple tap of the message. In recent times, APN setup is a two-tap installation process that gives instant access to mobile data and MMS. Some of the uses of APN include

  • Activation of cellular data network
  • Switch between different carrier
  • Assign a dynamic or static IP address to the mobile

What are the different types of APN?

  • Public APN : The default option in a SIM is Public APN which allows the user access to the Internet directly without any additional steps
  • Private APN : Using an internal APN, Private APN connects the device through a gateway/VPN to access a specific network
  • Private APN with Static IP : The gateway/VPN can use Private APN with Static IP to assign a device a private static IP address.

What's the Difference Between a Private APN and a Public APN in IoT Connectivity?

In the rapidly evolving world of IoT (Internet of Things), choosing the right type of Access Point Name (APN) — private or public — is critical, especially when it comes to ensuring network security and reliable data transmission. Public APNs, accessible via a carrier's public cellular network, provide standard internet connectivity suitable for general IoT devices but may lack the robust security measures necessary for sensitive data handling. In contrast, private APNs offer a secure, dedicated network pathway, enhancing data protection by restricting access to authorized IoT devices only. This feature is particularly valuable in industries like healthcare, finance, and smart infrastructure, where data integrity and security are paramount.

Key differences between these two APN types in the IoT context include security protocols, network customization, and traffic control. Private APNs stand out with their advanced security features, ability to tailor network settings for specific IoT use cases, and superior control over network traffic, ensuring optimal performance and reduced latency for critical IoT operations. Their capacity to support secure, real-time data processing makes them ideal for sophisticated IoT applications, such as remote healthcare monitoring, financial transaction processing, and smart city infrastructure management.

For businesses integrating IoT solutions into their operations, comprehending the nuances between private and public APNs is vital. Public APNs, while convenient for basic IoT connectivity, fall short in providing the enhanced security and specialized control that sensitive and complex IoT systems require. On the other hand, private APNs deliver customized security solutions, essential for safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring the reliable functioning of critical IoT applications.

What Are Different APN Settings?

APN (Access Point Name) settings are crucial for ensuring your device's optimal connectivity to the mobile network. These settings encompass several specific configuration nodes, each serving a unique purpose in the network connection process.

  • APN Name:

    This is the gateway through which devices connect to the internet. In the U.S., the APN name is often 'wholesale,' but it can vary depending on the carrier and the region.

  • APN Type:

    There are typically four APN types - Generic, supl, mms, and wap. Each type serves a different function:

    • Generic:

      The standard APN type used for general internet connections.

    • Supl:

      Used for Secure User Plane Location, aiding in GPS services.

    • MMS:

      Stands for Multimedia Messaging Service, necessary for sending and receiving MMS messages.

    • Wap:

      Used for Wireless Application Protocol services, facilitating access to information over a mobile wireless network.

  • MMSC (Multimedia Messaging Service Center):

    This is essential for the functioning of MMS. It acts as a relay that manages the sending and receiving of MMS messages. Most mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) that support MMS will require this setting.

  • Proxy:

    Similar to a proxy on a computer, this setting is used by some mobile carriers to set up a proxy server between the network and the internet. It can be used for various purposes, including security measures and controlling internet access.

APN vs. VPN

APN, provided specifically by the mobile carrier, is the first step in establishing a connection between the mobile device and the internet. It plays a crucial role in enabling cellular connectivity for devices, including those equipped with IoT modules. Sometimes, private APN and VPN are often used interchangeably due to the assumption they have the same purpose… Virtual Private Network adds an additional layer of security by encrypting data sent over the internet. VPNs are specifically used for the exchange of private information over a public communication network. Businesses most often give employees working a VPN login remotely to access company assets. It is important to note that APN is a mandatory setting for cellular connectivity, while VPN is optional.

APN VPN
A gateway to let you connect to public internet. VPN is an extra secure layer on top of the internet.
APN provides information required to connect to internet. VPN works by creating a secure virtual tunnel.
Security depends on the carrier network. Private APN allows custom configurations. VPN can choose the level of encryption for security.
APN provides connectivity and therefore, is mandatory. VPN is optional.

So, Do I need a Private APN for my IoT deployment?

Private APN speeds up and simplifies the development, operation, and maintenance of your IoT solutions. Let’s see how.

A Private APN is a mobile device's point of entry into an IP network which provides you with greater control over the security and configuration of your IoT SIM Cards. With Private APN, you can delve deeper and customize network settings to create a network tailored to your needs that helps you configure various settings such as IP address ranges, static or dynamic addressing, and authentication methods. Instead of using the defaults, it allows you to create your own firewall rules and security settings thus safeguarding data by preventing it from accessing the public internet while remaining on cellular network infrastructure.

APNs provide a secure two-way peer-to-peer (P2P) connectivity, and the device-specific IP addressability is an added benefit. APNs make it easier for corporate monitoring services to detect malware. Low-level malware can bypass VPN enforcement but not an APN. Only provisioned devices have access to external corporate infrastructure, not the entire Internet.

Private APNs provide a better solution for data security than using the public internet for transportation. If you want to limit the destinations to which your devices can connect or add a second layer of data encryption, you can use a private APN for outbound firewalling. In conclusion, APNs provide improved configurability, device security, and data privacy.

Hubble APN allows the devices to securely connect to the internet through the Hubble APN service over IPv4. This service provides reliable and secure connectivity for devices to connect to the internet without going through other APN services which may compromise data security.


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