The Things Network
Claim this toolBuild and scale IoT applications with a global, open LoRaWAN network.
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Tracked since2026
0 reviews trackedThe Bottom Line
Entry price
Free, no paid tier
Biggest pro
Leverages an open and global LoRaWAN network.
Biggest con
Relies solely on LoRaWAN protocol, which may not suit all IoT use cases.
TL;DR - The Things Network
- Provides an open, global LoRaWAN network for IoT applications.
- Offers tools and resources for managing devices, gateways, and data.
- Supports secure, low-cost, and scalable IoT solution development.
Pricing: Free forever
Best for: Individuals & startups
What is The Things Network?
The Things Network provides a comprehensive platform for developing and deploying Internet of Things (IoT) solutions using LoRaWAN technology. It offers a global, open network infrastructure powered by The Things Stack, a robust LoRaWAN Network Server. This platform enables developers and companies to securely manage IoT applications, end devices, and gateways at a low cost, with built-in scalability.
The platform is designed for anyone looking to build value-driven IoT projects, from individual developers to large enterprises. It provides extensive resources, including a device repository for compatible hardware, educational materials on LoRaWAN, and a certification program to validate LoRaWAN expertise. Users can connect various end devices and gateways, manage network traffic, and integrate with preferred IoT cloud platforms, ERP systems, or databases using webhooks and MQTT, fostering a vibrant global ecosystem.
Available on: Web
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Leverages an open and global LoRaWAN network.
- Provides comprehensive tools for managing the entire IoT solution lifecycle.
- Offers strong security features for device activation and data transmission.
- Supports a wide range of gateways, including DIY options.
- Extensive educational resources and certification programs available.
Cons
- Relies solely on LoRaWAN protocol, which may not suit all IoT use cases.
- Requires understanding of LoRaWAN architecture for optimal use.
- Specific pricing details for advanced features or larger deployments are not immediately clear.
Preview
Key Features
Global LoRaWAN network infrastructureThe Things Stack LoRaWAN Network ServerEnd device management and activation (OTAA, ABP)Gateway management and connectivityApplication data routing and deduplicationSecurity key management and AES-128 encryptionIntegration with third-party platforms via HTTP webhooks and MQTTDevice Repository for compatible LoRaWAN hardware
Pricing Plans
Pricing checked Jul 9, 2026
Free
Free
- Open tools
- Global, open network
- Low cost
- Maximum security
- Ready to scale
- Powered by The Things Stack
Reviews
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The Things Network FAQ
How does The Things Network facilitate IoT application development?
The Things Network provides a comprehensive platform for developing and deploying IoT solutions using LoRaWAN technology. It offers a global, open network infrastructure and tools to manage IoT applications, end devices, and gateways securely and scalably.
Which teams benefit most from using The Things Network?
The Things Network is ideal for developers and companies building value-driven IoT projects, from individual innovators to large enterprises. It suits those who need to manage network traffic, connect various end devices and gateways, and integrate with existing cloud platforms or databases.
How is The Things Network priced?
The Things Network is free to use, meaning no paid plan is required to access its core functionalities. This allows users to build and scale IoT applications without an initial financial commitment.
What kind of integrations does The Things Network support?
The Things Network supports integration with preferred IoT cloud platforms, ERP systems, or databases. This is achieved through the use of webhooks and MQTT, fostering a vibrant global ecosystem for data exchange.
What are the limitations of The Things Network's technology?
The Things Network relies solely on the LoRaWAN protocol, which means it may not be suitable for all IoT use cases. Users also need an understanding of LoRaWAN architecture to optimize its use.
How does The Things Network compare to Tago.io?
The Things Network focuses on providing a global, open LoRaWAN network infrastructure and tools for managing the entire IoT solution lifecycle. It emphasizes LoRaWAN-specific deployments, whereas Tago.io offers a broader IoT application enablement platform.
Can users connect their own gateways to The Things Network?
Yes, The Things Network supports a wide range of gateways, including options for do-it-yourself (DIY) setups. This flexibility allows users to integrate their preferred hardware into the network infrastructure.
Source: thethingsnetwork.org