As the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to scale across industries, choosing the right SIM and router bundle is essential for achieving secure, reliable, and scalable connectivity. Whether you're deploying smart sensors, remote monitoring systems, or connected vehicles, your solution must be robust, futureproof, and globally compatible.
Choosing SIM and router bundles for IoT (Internet of Things) involves selecting tailored connectivity solutions to enable seamless, secure, and reliable data exchange for devices like sensors, trackers, and smart systems.
This guide explores what makes an IoT SIM and router bundle truly effective, from network resilience and data plan flexibility to device compatibility and support. While several IoT providers in the UK offer IoT bundles, Cellhire emerges as a standout.
With over 37 years of telecom experience and a global IoT network spanning 191 countries, Cellhire delivers enterprise-grade bundles trusted across sectors like broadcasting, digital signage, alarms and security, payment terminals, manufacturing, logistics, and marine connectivity.
Read on for a breakdown of key bundle features, considerations when selecting a provider, and how Cellhire’s IoT SIM and router bundles measure up.
What are SIM & router bundles for IoT?
IoT SIM cards and routers are special components designed for machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, enabling devices to connect to cellular networks without human intervention. IoT SIMs prioritise durability and low power consumption.
In contrast, routers distribute mobile broadband (4G and 5G) to multiple devices using Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
Bundles combine SIMs, routers, and sometimes accessories like antennas, simplifying deployment for applications such as smart cities, industrial automation, or live broadcasting. Cellhire’s bundles are engineered for global coverage, competitive pricing, and robust management, making them ideal for diverse IoT use cases.
Why choose Cellhire for IoT SIM & router bundles?
Cellhire, founded in 1987 and headquartered in York, UK, is a trusted provider with wholesale agreements with all four major UK networks (Vodafone, O2, EE, and Three) and over 40 global mobile network operators (MNOs). Our IoT solutions power critical applications, from the BBC’s 2024 UK General Election coverage to the 2024 Paris Olympics. Cellhire’s proprietary IoT network, supported by 430+ operator relationships, ensures connectivity in 191 countries, with features like fixed IP, private APNs, and multi-network roaming SIMs. Our SIM Management Platform allows businesses to manage thousands of SIMs in real time, enhancing control and scalability.
A recent white paper we released emphasises the risks of using consumer-grade mobile broadband SIMs in IoT security devices, noting, “The use of mobile broadband SIMs in IoT security applications can expose businesses to significant vulnerabilities, including network instability and insufficient security protocols.” Cellhire’s IoT SIMs address these concerns with enterprise-grade security and resilience, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for mission-critical applications.
Download the whitepaper: Are mobile broadband SIM cards a ticking time bomb for security devices here
Cellhire’s IoT SIM & router bundles
Cellhire offers IoT SIMs with highly competitive pricing and also offers preconfigured IoT routers and SIM bundles that streamline setups for various industries, including broadcasting. Cellhire optimises its bundles for enterprise IoT deployments, providing the following features:
- Hardware and Connectivity: Bundles include industrial-grade routers with SIM slots, pre-configured IoT SIMs, and optional antennas for enhanced signal strength. Routers support 4G/5G and low-power LTE-M/NB-IoT for battery-constrained devices.
- Global Coverage: Multi-network IoT SIMs, which include a free IoT SIM trial, roam across 430+ networks and automatically connect to the strongest signal in 191 countries, making them ideal for global deployments such as marine or telematics applications.
- Use Case Examples:
- Broadcasting: Cellhire’s “Count Cam” bundles, used for the BBC’s 2024 election coverage, paired iPhones with multi-network IoT SIMs and routers to livestream from 369 UK locations, ensuring zero downtime.
- Marine Sector: High-speed 4G/5G bundles for yachts and cruise ships provide secure, cost-effective connectivity for navigation and passenger services.
- Industrial IoT: Rugged routers and durable SIMs (resistant to -40°C to 105°C) support factory automation and remote monitoring with low-latency 5G.
Key considerations for choosing Cellhire’s IoT SIM bundles
1. Network Coverage and Reliability
- Cellhire’s unsteered, multi-network SIMs connect to the best available UK networks (Vodafone, O2, EE, and Three) and 430+ global networks, ensuring uninterrupted service. This partnership with global network services enhances failover capabilities, providing “secure, always-on IoT confidence across multiple verticals”.
- Routers support 5G, 4G LTE, and low-power LTE-M/NB-IoT, catering to both high-throughput (e.g., video surveillance) and low-data (e.g., sensors) applications.
2. Durability and Compatibility
- Cellhire’s IoT SIMs are industrial-grade, with embedded eSIM (MFF2) options for tamper resistance and longevity (up to 10 years).
- Bundles ensure compatibility, with routers supporting various SIM form factors (mini, micro, nano, MFF2) and network bands.
3. Cost Efficiency and Flexibility
- Cellhire offers competitive pricing with flexible data plans, including data-pooling options to optimise costs. Our wholesale model provides cost-effective solutions for resellers and enterprises.
- Routers optimise data usage, supporting low-bandwidth IoT devices to reduce operational costs.
4. Security and Compliance
- Fixed IP and private APN options ensure secure data transmission, which is critical for applications like healthcare or finance. Cellhire’s state-of-the-art SIM management portal supports remote provisioning, enhancing security by eliminating physical SIM swaps.
- Compliance with GSMA standards and ISO 27001 certification for their platform ensures robust data protection.
5. Scalability and Management
- This in-house SIM management platform simplifies management of large SIM estates, offering real-time insights, automated billing, and API integration for seamless scaling.
6. Tailored Use Cases
- Low-Data Needs: LTE-M/NB-IoT bundles for smart meters or sensors, minimising power and data usage.
- High-Data Applications: 5G bundles for live streaming or telematics, as demonstrated in Cellhire’s BBC election project.
- Mobile/Remote Deployments: Global IoT SIMs for vehicles or temporary sites, ensuring connectivity in remote areas.
Recommendations for Cellhire IoT SIM solutions
- Evaluate Your Needs: Identify your IoT application’s data, geographic, and environmental requirements. For example, broadcasting needs high-speed 5G bundles, while smart agriculture may require low-power LTE-M solutions.
- Leverage Cellhire’s Expertise: Contact Cellhire today to customise bundles for your industry, from healthcare to CCTV. Our support team, praised for responsiveness (e.g., resolving SIM provisioning issues within an hour), ensures smooth deployment and supports you through your journey.
- Test and Scale: Start with a pilot using Cellhire’s free trial, no-contract plans, then scale. Our partnerships with major events like the FIFA World Cup demonstrate reliability for large-scale deployments.
- Prioritise Security: Opt for bundles with fixed IPs and private APNs to safeguard sensitive data, aligning with Cellhire’s emphasis on purpose-built IoT SIMs to mitigate vulnerabilities.
Explore Cellhire’s IoT connectivity solutions or request a demo of the SIM management platform.
Cellhire’s IoT SIM and router bundles, backed by global coverage, enterprise-grade security, and award-winning innovation (e.g., 2024 Comms Business Awards for Best Wireless Connectivity Provider), offer a reliable, scalable solution for your IoT needs. Whether you’re livestreaming global events or monitoring remote assets, Cellhire ensures your devices stay connected. For tailored advice or specific use cases, reach out to the team today.
