The Things Network
UnclaimedBuild 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
Free
Free
- Open tools
- Global, open network
- Low cost
- Maximum security
- Ready to scale
- Powered by The Things Stack
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The Things Network FAQ
How does The Things Network ensure the security of end devices and data within its LoRaWAN network?
The Things Network utilizes the LoRaWAN protocol's inherent security features, including AES-128 bit encryption for session keys and message integrity checks. End devices are activated using secure methods like Over-The-Air-Activation (OTAA), where dynamic device addresses are assigned and security keys are negotiated with the network. The Network Server also validates device authenticity and message integrity.
Can I use my own LoRaWAN gateway with The Things Network, or am I limited to specific models?
The Things Network supports a wide range of gateways, from industrial products by manufacturers like Tektelic, MultiTech, and Mikrotik, to DIY gateways built using platforms like Raspberry Pi. The platform provides resources and guidance on how to connect various gateways to The Things Stack.
What is the difference between Over-The-Air-Activation (OTAA) and Activation By Personalization (ABP) for end devices on The Things Network?
OTAA is the recommended and more secure activation method, where devices perform a join procedure to dynamically obtain a device address and negotiate security keys. ABP, on the other hand, requires hardcoding the device address and security keys directly into the device, making it less secure and less flexible as devices cannot easily switch network providers.
How does The Things Network handle data routing and integrations with external cloud platforms or databases?
The Things Stack, at the core of The Things Network, routes your data to your end application. It manages security, message deduplication, and data rate optimization. For integrations, it offers an API-first design allowing full integration with various platforms using HTTP webhooks or MQTT. There are also one-click integrations available for popular IoT cloud platforms.
What kind of educational resources and certifications does The Things Network offer to help users develop LoRaWAN expertise?
The Things Network provides a comprehensive certification program called The Things Certified, covering various levels of LoRaWAN knowledge. This includes certifications for Fundamentals, Advanced concepts, Security, Network Management, and The Things Stack. They also offer The Things Academy for training and resources to acquire essential LoRaWAN knowledge.
If I have multiple gateways within range of an end device, how does The Things Network prevent duplicate messages?
The Things Network's Network Server is designed to handle this scenario through message deduplication. When multiple gateways receive the same message from an end device and forward it to the Network Server, the server intelligently identifies and keeps only a single copy of the message, discarding any duplicates.
Source: thethingsnetwork.org