Supporting critical downlink traffic in LoRaWAN

LoRaWAN, a low-power wide-area network (LPWAN) technology, has been successfully used in the Internet of Things (IoT) industry over the last decade. It is an easy-to-use, long-distance communication protocol combined with minimal power consumption. Supporting critical downlink traffic in LoRaWAN networks is crucial for ensuring the reliable and efficient delivery of essential data in certain actuating applications. However, challenges arise when prioritizing critical downlink traffic, including commands, alerts, and emergency notifications that demand immediate attention from actuating devices. This paper explores strategies to improve downlink traffic delivery in LoRaWAN networks, focusing on enhancing reliability, fairness, and energy efficiency through prioritization techniques and network parameter configurations in the EU868 spectrum. Theoretical as well as simulation results provide insights into the effectiveness of the available solutions for supporting critical downlink traffic in LoRaWAN networks.