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Prepare IoT Devices for Global 2G & 3G Shutdowns

Prepare IoT Devices for Global 2G & 3G Shutdowns

As 2G and 3G networks are being phased out around the world, IoT businesses need to ensure their devices stay connected and ready for the future. Com4 makes this transition seamless, helping you migrate to LTE-M, NB-IoT, 4G, or 5G with reliable global coverage and expert guidance.

Future-Proof Connectivity

With our own global IoT network and access to more than 750 networks across 190 countries, Com4 provides unmatched coverage for all your IoT devices, ensuring continuity even as legacy 2G and 3G networks shut down.

Flexible IoT SIM and eSIM Solutions

Whether you need a traditional SIM, eSIM, or iSIM, our solutions give you simple, reliable, and scalable connectivity. Com4’s SIMs are designed for global IoT deployments, supporting multiple network technologies and eliminating the complexity of managing operators country by country.

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Find out when networks will phase out 2G/3G



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Transition to 4G and 5G networks

Mobile network operators worldwide are modernizing their infrastructure to prioritize 4G and 5G networks. As traffic shifts to these high performance networks, legacy technologies are being phased out to free up spectrum and improve capacity, speed, and reliability.

For IoT deployments, this evolution is not just about faster connectivity. It is about ensuring long term stability, security, and scalability. Devices that are not designed for 4G and 5G environments may face performance limitations or future compatibility challenges.

Failing to align your IoT strategy with the 4G and 5G transition can lead to operational disruptions, unexpected upgrade costs, and reduced competitiveness.

At Com4, we help you future proof your IoT deployment with 4G and 5G ready connectivity solutions, ensuring seamless performance, global coverage, and long term operational resilience.

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IoT Migration Guide

Navigate the 2G & 3G Sunset with Confidence

The retirement of 2G and 3G networks is already underway in the Nordics and across Europe. For organizations operating connected devices in the field, the question is no longer if you should migrate, but how and when.

This migration guide provides a structured approach to:

  • Assessing your installed base
  • Evaluating LTE-M and modern IoT standards
  • Planning hardware upgrades or SIM transitions
  • Managing international roaming implications
  • Reducing operational risk during migration

A well-planned migration protects your devices, customers, and long-term IoT investment.

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Seamless IoT Migration Worldwide

As 2G and 3G networks are phased out globally, Com4 ensures a smooth transition to modern technologies like LTE-M, NB-IoT, 4G, and 5G. With access to more than 750 networks in 190 countries, our global IoT SIM delivers reliable, flexible, and future ready connectivity that keeps your devices online as legacy networks shut down.

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2G and 3G Network Shutdown Frequently Asked Questions

Why are mobile operators shutting down 2G and 3G networks?

Mobile Network Operators are gradually phasing out 2G and 3G as part of their long term network evolution strategy.

The radio spectrum used for legacy technologies is being reallocated to more efficient and secure technologies such as 4G LTE, LTE-M, NB-IoT and 5G. These newer standards provide:

  • Higher network capacity

  • Better energy efficiency

  • Improved security

  • Lower latency

  • Stronger support for large scale IoT deployments


The decision to shut down 2G and 3G networks is made by each mobile operator in each country. IoT connectivity providers do not control these shutdown timelines, but they support customers in planning and executing a smooth transition.

When will 2G and 3G be switched off?

Shutdown timelines vary by country and operator.

In many European markets:

  • 3G is already shut down or in its final phase

  • 2G will follow over the coming years depending on national strategies

For international IoT deployments it is important to review your device footprint country by country and operator by operator.

How will the 2G and 3G shutdown impact my IoT devices?

The impact depends on your device hardware, firmware and network configuration.

If your devices support 4G LTE, LTE M, NB IoT or 5G, they may automatically:

  • Switch to a supported radio technology

  • Connect to another available network if roaming is enabled

However, if your devices:

  • Support only 2G or 3G

  • Are locked to a specific radio technology

  • Are locked to a single operator

You may experience reduced performance, service degradation or complete loss of connectivity once the legacy network is shut down. Early assessment is essential to avoid operational disruption.

Which devices are most at risk?

Devices that are most exposed include:

  • 2G only modules

  • 3G only modules

  • Devices deployed in remote areas with limited 4G coverage

  • Devices embedded in hard to access installations

  • Products designed for lifecycles of ten years or more

Industries commonly affected include smart metering, alarm systems, industrial monitoring, asset tracking and infrastructure monitoring.

What steps should I take now?

We recommend a structured migration approach.

  • First conduct a full device audit. Identify the modem type, supported radio technologies, deployment country and expected remaining lifecycle.

  • Second review shutdown timelines in each market where your devices operate.

  • Third define a migration strategy. This may involve firmware updates if the hardware supports 4G, module replacement, full hardware refresh or migration to LTE-M or NB-IoT for low power applications.

Should I migrate to LTE, LTE-M, NB-IoT or 5G?

The right choice depends on your use case.

  • LTE is suitable for higher data usage and broad compatibility.

  • LTE M is ideal for IoT devices requiring mobility and low power consumption.

  • NB-IoT is optimized for static devices with very low data usage.

  • 5G is designed for high throughput, ultra low latency and advanced use cases.

For many legacy 2G deployments, LTE-M is often the most future ready and energy efficient option.

Can roaming protect my deployment?

Roaming may provide temporary continuity if another operator in the region still supports 2G or 3G.

However, roaming agreements evolve and legacy networks are being retired globally. Long term reliance on 2G or 3G roaming is not a sustainable strategy. Roaming should be viewed as a transitional measure, not a permanent solution.

What happens if I take no action?

If your devices depend exclusively on 2G or 3G and the network is shut down:

  • Devices will stop transmitting data

  • Remote management may no longer function

  • Field service visits may be required

  • Service level agreements may be impacted

  • Revenue and operational continuity may be at risk

For critical infrastructure and regulated industries, the consequences can be significant.

How can we support you?

We can assist by:

  • Conducting a device and network risk assessment

  • Advising on optimal radio technology migration paths

  • Supporting fallback configuration strategies

  • Planning phased hardware refresh programs

  • Providing global connectivity solutions that support LTE, LTE-M, NB-IoT and 5G

The 2G and 3G shutdown is not just a network change. It is a strategic opportunity to modernize your IoT deployment and improve long term performance, security and scalability.

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Navigate network transitions with ease and confidence

Network migrations take time, planning, and the right expertise. That is why it is never too early to start the conversation.

At Com4, we work closely with you to assess your current deployment, understand your risk exposure, and develop a clear migration strategy aligned with 4G and 5G network evolution.

Our team ensures a structured, controlled transition that protects your operations, minimizes disruption, and secures long term connectivity performance.

Let Com4 guide you safely through your network transition with confidence and clarity.