The end of 2G in Germany:
what now matters for M2M and IoT
2G Network: Telekom plans shutdown on 30 June 2028
The end of 2G in Germany:
Following the 3G (UMTS) shutdown in 2021, Deutsche Telekom is now planning to shut down the 2G (GSM) network in Germany, probably on 30 June 2028. The frequencies used for this purpose are to be used for 4G (LTE) and 5G in the future. Applications that are still based on 2G technology must therefore be migrated to new communication standards before the shutdown. INSYS icom supports you in the migration to suitable industrial routers and gateways and advises you on the changeover to future-proof communication technologies.
Why the 2G shutdown is now necessary
In use since 1992, 2G (also known as GSM – Global System for Mobile Communications) was the first digital cellular network in Germany and a milestone in mobile communications. After the 3G shutdown in 2021, 2G remained an important part of basic coverage, especially in regions where 4G (LTE) and 5G were not yet available nationwide.
Today, however, 2G no longer meets the requirements of modern applications. The planned shutdown creates space for the further expansion of 4G (LTE) and 5G: the frequency spectrum is to be used for these more powerful and efficient technologies – an important foundation for future-proof digital applications.
What the 2G shutdown means for M2M and IoT applications
Numerous systems in the field of Machine-to-Machine (M2M) and Internet of Things (IoT) still rely on 2G connections – often because low data rates, small data volumes, long device lifecycles and widespread network coverage were the main priorities. Applications in the energy supply, water management, industrial and logistics sectors are particularly affected, as they have been reliably operated with GSM devices for many years.
The planned shutdown spells the end for these devices. Companies must therefore make the switch to alternative cellular technologies such as 4G (LTE), LTE450 for critical infrastructures, or 5G at an early stage – also to ensure operational reliability and future viability.
Future-proof networking –
with our industrial routers
INSYS icom routers and gateways are specifically designed for industrial applications and enable a smooth migration from 2G to 4G (LTE) or LTE450 MHz for critical infrastructures. We will find the right solution for your application.
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Opportunities for the industry
The shutdown of 2G creates space for modern technologies and new opportunities in the field of IoT and M2M:
Need for investment and action
The upcoming shutdown of the 2G network presents many companies with technical and economic challenges. In numerous applications, the existing infrastructure is based on 2G, meaning that replacement is often accompanied by a fundamental modernisation of the systems.
Companies should review their inventory of 2G devices and applications and assess their technological requirements. On this basis, the transition to modern cellular technologies and the corresponding procurement of devices can be initiated in a targeted and efficient manner – especially for devices and systems with long service cycles that require early replacement planning.
Conclusion
The shutdown of the 2G network in Germany affects numerous existing devices used in industrial applications. Although the transition involves investments and adjustments, modern cellular standards such as 4G (LTE), LTE450 and 5G provide a powerful and future-oriented foundation for IoT and M2M communication. Companies that migrate to new technologies at an early stage benefit from higher network quality and the advantages of up-to-date devices – securing their long-term competitiveness.
Use Case: Traffic light control and traffic management technology
In traffic infrastructure, 2G is still commonly used today as a communication technology, especially in mobile applications – for instance, to manage traffic flows that require only small amounts of data. A typical example is temporary traffic lights at construction sites, which help maintain smooth traffic flow and prevent road disruptions.
With the network shutdown, the communication foundation is lost. Without timely migration, there is a risk of local traffic bottlenecks, increased manual effort, or even breaches of contract with customers and authorities.
Switching to modern industrial routers or gateways enables:
Upgrade now with industrial routers from INSYS icom
In addition to 4G (LTE), we also offer powerful router solutions based on VDSL, fibre optics, Wi-Fi or Ethernet – tailored to every industrial requirement.
Frequently asked questions about the 2G shutdown
Which network providers in Germany are planning the 2G shutdown, and when?
What happens to regions that only have 2G reception so far?
According to Deutsche Telekom, the connection to 4G (LTE) and 5G networks will take place before the 2G shutdown. Regions that have so far only been served by 2G will be upgraded to the new cellular standard early on as part of the ongoing network modernisation.
What is the status of the 2G shutdown in other countries?
The shutdown of 2G and 3G networks is being implemented differently across the German-speaking countries. In Switzerland, Swisscom, Sunrise and Salt have already completely shut down their 2G networks – even before the planned 3G shutdown in 2025. In Austria, 2G is still available from A1 Telekom Austria, Magenta Telekom and Drei. So far, the network providers have not announced any concrete plans to shut down 2G, while 3G is being phased out gradually by the end of 2025. In other EU countries, the 2G shutdown is taking place on varying timelines: while it has already been completed in some countries, it is still pending in others. Companies should therefore prepare early for different national schedules and transitions expected between 2025 and 2030.
How future-proof is 4G (LTE) for industrial applications?
According to the current situation and the assessments of leading network providers, 4G (LTE) will continue to be supported for many years to come and will remain a reliable foundation for industrial applications in Germany.
Is INSYS icom planning to expand its portfolio to include 5G-capable industrial routers and gateways?
Yes, INSYS icom will expand its product portfolio in 2026 to include industrial 5G products based on Enhanced Mobile Broadband technology (5G eMBB). Investing in 5G can be beneficial for selected, data-intensive applications.
However, for most industrial applications, 4G (LTE) continues to be the technically and economically optimal solution. 4G (LTE) will remain available in the long term and continues to be the standard for the industrial sector.
Retrofit now – for secure and stable connections!