LoRaWAN does have gaps in the architecture and protocols that need careful consideration from the IoT architect:
- Some features common in LTE networks are simply not designed into the LoRaWAN architecture. LoRaWAN is not a complete network stack in the OSI model. It lacks the common features of a network layer, session layer, and transport layer: roaming, packetizations, retry mechanisms, QoS, and disconnects. It is up to the developer and integrator to add those services if necessary.
- LoRaWAN relies on a cloud-based network interface. At some point in the value chain, a cloud subscription is needed.
- The chip vendor is Semtech and is a single source of the technology, although there have been announced partnerships with ST ...