Deutsche Telekom plans to shut down its 2G network no later than June 30, 2028, to free up frequencies for more advanced technologies such as 4G (LTE) and 5G. However, many applications in the water industry, as well as in M2M and IoT environments, still rely on GSM technology and require urgent modernization.
The challenge: migrating existing infrastructure without compromising service continuity.
The transition particularly affects long-lived installations within critical infrastructure, where communication units often remain operational for many years with minimal changes. If the migration is not planned well in advance, there is a risk of service disruptions, as devices that only support 2G will cease to connect to the network once this technology is phased out.
“The 2G network shutdown is a key issue for many operators in the water sector. Existing systems must be upgraded well in advance to future-proof technologies to ensure long-term operational security,” explains Anna Wels, Vice President of Project Business at INSYS icom.
Joint solution: modernization instead of complete replacement.
The solution is based on the Panasonic Industry FP-I4C communications gateway, combined with industrial routers and gateways from INSYS icom. The objective is clear: to keep existing installations in use while simultaneously integrating them into modern communication infrastructures.
“With the FP-I4C, we offer a kind of 'Swiss Army knife' for industrial communication. It allows existing controllers connected via serial interfaces to be integrated into modern networks without the need for a complete system overhaul,” says Sonja Linder, European Marketing Manager at Panasonic Industry.
Thanks to this modernization or retrofit approach, companies can reduce costs and act more sustainably by extending the lifespan of existing hardware.
Added value through modern communication and remote services.
The FP-I4C supports a wide variety of industrial communication protocols and enables features such as:
Connecting existing installations to cloud databases and systems.
Remote access and maintenance.
Creating web visualizations to enhance the user experience.
Integration into point-to-point and multipoint communication architectures.
Combined with INSYS icom industrial routers, it provides a comprehensive, scalable, and secure solution.
Secure connectivity with industrial LTE routers.
INSYS icom router and gateway solutions are specifically designed for industrial applications and offer:
Secure data transmission via VPN connections.
High connection stability and redundancy.
Compatibility with modern mobile communication standards, such as LTE and 5G.
Robust design for use in demanding environments.
Integration with SCADA platforms, IoT, and cloud systems.
“Our premium products for industrial data communication enable a secure and stable connection of the facilities, as well as reliable remote access; a decisive factor for the operation of distributed infrastructures,” adds Anna Wels.
Cybersecurity and future-proofing as priorities.
Migrating to modern mobile communication technologies not only offers greater transmission capacity and lower latency, but also improved security mechanisms. Modern industrial routers incorporate hardened operating systems, encryption technologies, and flexible VPN architectures—aspects that are especially relevant for critical infrastructure.
“Cybersecurity plays a fundamental role, especially in critical applications such as the water industry. In combination with INSYS icom solutions, we create a secure and sustainable long-term communication foundation,” emphasizes Sonja Linder.
Conclusion: Act now and secure competitive advantages.
The upcoming 2G network shutdown is not only a technical challenge but also an opportunity to modernize existing infrastructure. Companies that adopt future-proof communication solutions early will benefit from:
Increased availability and reliability.
Improved data integration and greater transparency.
Reduced operating costs through remote services.
Long-term investment security.
Panasonic Industry and INSYS icom offer a coordinated and proven solution, from data acquisition to secure transmission.
