If you have a wireless or cellular security system, you may have heard of the 2G sunset. The 2G sunset is a major shift in the global communication industry, which is inadvertently affecting the communication of alarm systems. However, the security industry is not the only industry to be affected by this change. The M2M (Machine to Machine) technology industry is evolving as a result of advancements in the capabilities of new cellular technologies. M2M enables one device to share information with another device; 2G technology has always been at the center of the M2M concept. 2G was a pioneering technology when M2M was developed and it has been the framework for developing more efficient standards of mobile communication.
The basis of the 2G Sunset is to support new cellular technologies such as 3G and 4G and effectively discontinue support for 2G technology. 2G cellular service will become obsolete in 2016, and in many areas consumers are already experiencing service disruptions. At Alarm Relay, we view the 2G sunset as an opportunity to educate our clients on all new communication options available for home security systems. Upgrading to a 3G/4G cellular alarm module will enable security systems to report information at higher speeds and support larger data capacities. Get a jumpstart on replacing your wireless module now to avoid alarm monitoring service interruptions.
You may be wondering, what exactly is 2G technology? 2G is short for second-generation wireless cellular technology. When 2G was released in 1991, mobile consumers that had not adopted this standard were considered to be using 1G technology, which was analog in its nature and substantially slower than 2G. 2G capitalized on its ability to send and receive information in a digital format and at much higher speeds than had ever been achieved in the global telecom industry. In addition, data sent over 2G cellular networks was encrypted for the first time in history. Encryption of data means that it is very difficult for anyone other than the sender or recipient in a data exchange to intercept that information and exploit it. 2G was the king of global mobile telecommunications because of its encryption and reliability. However, with advancements in technology, new telecommunications models for mobile appeared which provided additional features and capabilities.
Let’s go over some highlights as to why upgrading from a 2G module for your home security system will be beneficial:
- 2G technology will be obsolete and unsupported to the public as of 2016. This is the biggest reason to upgrade your communicator as soon as possible. Performing this upgrade will ensure continued reliable alarm monitoring service through Alarm Relay. If this upgrade is not performed by 2016, our customers risk the possibility of having a nonfunctional alarm system.
- 3G and 4G technology is fully supported by Alarm Relay and should be supported for a long time. If you upgrade to a 3G or higher communicator you can rest assured that your home security system communication path will be supported for at least another decade.
- 3G and 4G technology is substantially faster than 2G. When it comes to your security, it is very important that alarm signals are transmitted to the Central Station as quickly as possible.
- 3G and 4G technology uses advanced encryption for data transmission. This will give you peace of mind that your alarm monitoring system data is not intercepted.
Alarm Relay offers the best wireless alarm systems and various solutions for customers who are ready to transition to 3G or 4G technology. In addition, you may contact us at any time to find out if your current wireless alarm module is 2G. If you have any questions please contact our Sales team at (800) 624-6866. We are more than happy to assist you during this necessary alarm communication transition.
