--- title: What Is LoRa®? description: LoRaWAN® is fast becoming the de facto standard for LPWAN deployments. By using LoRa and LoRaWAN, very large-scale flexible networks are possible. image: https://blog.semtech.com/hubfs/lora-learn-blog-social.jpg --- [Skip to main content](https://blog.semtech.com/what-is-lora#content) - [Cross Reference](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/cross-reference-search) - [Parametric](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/parametric-search) - [Shop](https://www.semtech.com/shop) - [Investors](https://investors.semtech.com/) - [mySemtech](https://semtech.my.site.com/DP/) - EN - [EN](https://www.semtech.com/) - [CN (中文)](https://www.semtech.cn/) - [JP (日本語)](https://www.semtech.jp/) - [FR](https://www.semtech.fr/) [![Semtech](https://www.semtech.com/uploads/images/semtech-logo.svg "Semtech")](https://www.semtech.com) - [LoRa®](https://www.semtech.com/lora) - [LoRa® Overview](https://www.semtech.com/lora) ### LoRa Overview LoRa is the de facto wireless platform of Internet of Things (IoT). Semtech's LoRa chipsets connect sensors to the Cloud and enable real-time communication of data and analytics that can be utilized to enhance efficiency and productivity. [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/lora) - [LoRa (PHY)](https://www.semtech.com/lora/what-is-lora) - [Benefits of LoRa](https://www.semtech.com/lora/why-lora) - [LoRaWAN® Standard](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lorawan-standard) - [Products](https://www.semtech.com/products/wireless-rf) - [Applications](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications) ### Applications Overview With an ever-increasing number of IoT vertical applications, LoRa devices and the LoRaWAN standard is creating business efficiencies and improving lives around the world. [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications) - [Agriculture](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-agriculture) - [Cities](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-cities) - [Environment](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-environment) - [Healthcare](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-healthcare) - [Buildings](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-buildings) - [Homes](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-homes) - [Industrial Control](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-industrial-control) - [Retail](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-retail) - [Supply Chain and Logistics](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-supply-chain-logistics) - [Electricity](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-electricity-metering) - [Gas](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-gas-metering) - [Water](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lora-applications/smart-water-metering) - [Ecosystem](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem) ### Ecosystem Overview LoRa is bolstered by a diverse global ecosystem of hardware manufacturers, software designers, network providers, and industry associations. [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem) - [LoRa Alliance®](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem/lora-alliance) - [Featured Sensor Use Cases](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem/sensor-features) - [Gateways](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem/gateways) - [Software](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem/software) - [Networks](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem/networks) - [Industry Alliances](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem/industry-alliances) - [Resources](https://www.semtech.com/lora/resources) ### Resources Overview Explore our top resources to help you learn more about LoRa devices and the LoRaWAN standard or bring a LoRa-based solution to market. 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[Read More](https://www.semtech.com/products) ### Quick Links - [Product Selector Guides](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/product-guides) - [Shop](https://www.semtech.com/shop) - [Parametric Search](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/parametric-search) - [LoRa® Wireless RF](https://www.semtech.com/products/wireless-rf) ### Products Overview LoRa®, a long range, low power platform, and the de facto wireless platform of Internet of Things, is highly integrated and cost-effective, boasting a notable battery life of up to 20 years, a 3-mile range in urban environments and a 30-mile range outdoors. [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/products/wireless-rf) - [ICs for Gateways](https://www.semtech.com/products/wireless-rf/lora-core) - [ICs for Sensors](https://www.semtech.com/products/wireless-rf/lora-connect) - [LoRa Cloud™](https://loracloud.com) - [Software Library](https://www.semtech.com/products/wireless-rf/software-library-protocol-solution) - [Circuit Protection](https://www.semtech.com/products/circuit-protection) ### Products Overview Sophisticated devices that protect sensitive circuitry from Electrostatic Discharge (ESD), Electrical Fast Transients (EFT), Cable Discharge Events (CDE), and other electrical overstress. 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[Read More](https://www.semtech.com/technology) ### Quick Links - [Related Applications](https://www.semtech.com/applications) - [LoRa White Papers & Infographics](https://www.semtech.com/lora/resources/lora-white-papers) - [Product Selector Guides](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/product-guides) - [LoRa® Wireless RF For The IoT](https://www.semtech.com/lora) ### LoRa Wireless RF For The IoT Overview LoRa is the de facto wireless platform of Internet of Things (IoT). Semtech's LoRa chipsets connect sensors to the Cloud and enable real-time communication of data and analytics that can be utilized to enhance efficiency and productivity. [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/lora) - [LoRa (PHY)](https://www.semtech.com/lora/what-is-lora) - [Benefits of LoRa](https://www.semtech.com/lora/why-lora) - [LoRaWAN® Standard](https://www.semtech.com/lora/lorawan-standard) - [PerSe® Smart Sensing](https://www.semtech.com/technology/perse) ### PerSe® Smart Sensing Overview Semtech's PerSe technology intelligently senses human presence for optimized connectivity and enhanced user experience. 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[Read More](https://www.semtech.com/technology/esd-protection) - [Circuit Protection Overview](https://www.semtech.com/technology/esd-protection) - [Z-Platform](https://www.semtech.com/technology/z-platform) - [Design Resources](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/) - [Design Resources Overview](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/) ### Design Resources Overview Semtech places a high importance on delivering superior design support and provides a wealth of tools and resources with the goal of shortening your time to revenue for your new product introductions. [Read More](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/) - [Product Guides](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/product-guides) - [Development Support Documentation](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/development-support-documents/) - [Parametric Search](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/parametric-search) - [Quality Assurance](https://www.semtech.com/quality/search-pb-lead-free-rohs-green) - [LoRa GitHub](https://github.com/LoRa-Net) - [LoRa PCB Design Review](https://info.semtech.com/pcb-design-review-service) - [LoRa Calculator](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/lora-calculator) - [LoRaWAN Academy and Training](https://learn.semtech.com/) - [Product Cross Reference Search](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/cross-reference-search) - [Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/faq) - [mySemtech Document Portal](https://semtech.my.site.com/DP/) - [IoT Applications](https://www.semtech.com/applications) ### Internet of Things Award-winning LoRa Technology, ESD and surge protection, and smart control platforms for Internet of Things-enabled devices and low power, wide area network (LPWAN) infrastructure. 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[Read More](https://www.semtech.com/applications) - [Automotive](https://www.semtech.com/applications/automotive-apps) - [Advanced Driver Assistance Systems](https://www.semtech.com/applications/automotive-apps/adas-body-electronics) - [Automotive Battery Management Systems](https://www.semtech.com/applications/automotive-apps/automotive-battery-management-systems) - [Automotive USB Charger](https://www.semtech.com/applications/automotive-apps/dashboard-electronics-usb-charging) - [Infotainment Unit](https://www.semtech.com/applications/automotive-apps/navigation-infotainment) - [Remote Keyless Entry](https://www.semtech.com/applications/automotive-apps/remote-keyless-entry) - [Telematics Unit](https://www.semtech.com/applications/automotive-apps/telematics-unit) - [Broadcast Video](https://www.semtech.com/applications/broadcast-video-applications) - [Broadcast Equipment](https://www.semtech.com/applications/broadcast-video-applications/broadcast-equipment) - [Consumer Electronics](https://www.semtech.com/applications/consumer-electronics) - [Mobile Devices](https://www.semtech.com/applications/consumer-electronics/mobile-devices) - [Wearables](https://www.semtech.com/applications/consumer-electronics/wearables) - [TVs, Set Top Boxes, Monitors](https://www.semtech.com/applications/consumer-electronics/tvs-set-top-boxes-monitors) - [Laptops, Tablets, Computers](https://www.semtech.com/applications/consumer-electronics/laptops-tablets-computers) - [Appliances & White Goods](https://www.semtech.com/applications/consumer-electronics/appliances-white-goods) - [Computers, Printers, Scanners](https://www.semtech.com/applications/consumer-electronics/computers-printers-scanners) - [Industrial](https://www.semtech.com/applications/industrial-applications) - [Medical Equipment](https://www.semtech.com/applications/industrial-applications/medical-equipment) - [Factory Automation](https://www.semtech.com/applications/industrial-applications/factory-automation) - [Energy, Smart Grids, Smart Metering](https://www.semtech.com/applications/industrial-applications/energy-smart-grids-smart-metering) - [Surveillance](https://www.semtech.com/applications/industrial-applications/surveillance) - [Test & Measurement](https://www.semtech.com/applications/industrial-applications/test-measurement) - [Power Tools](https://www.semtech.com/applications/industrial-applications/power-tools) - [Infrastructure](https://www.semtech.com/applications/infrastructure) - [Data Centers](https://www.semtech.com/applications/infrastructure/enterprise-datacenters) - [Passive Optical Networks / Fiber to the Home](https://www.semtech.com/applications/infrastructure/enterprise-passive-optical-networks-fiber-to-the-home) - [Broadband](https://www.semtech.com/applications/infrastructure/enterprise-broadband) - [Networking & Optical Communications](https://www.semtech.com/applications/networking-communication) - [Broadband](https://www.semtech.com/applications/networking-communication/broadband) - [Passive Optical Networks / Fiber to the Home](https://www.semtech.com/applications/networking-communication/passive-optical-networks) - [ISM Networks](https://www.semtech.com/applications/networking-communication/ism-networks) - [Wireless Infrastructure, Base Stations](https://www.semtech.com/applications/networking-communication/wireless-infrastructure-base-stations) - [Data Centers](https://www.semtech.com/applications/networking-communication/datacenters) - [Quality](https://www.semtech.com/quality) - ### Quality Overview Ethical standards drive peak customer satisfaction. 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[Blog](https://blog.semtech.com/)  14 December, 2018   5 min read # What Is LoRa®?  Joseph Knapp The name of Semtech’s radio modulation technology of low-power, wide area networks, “LoRa®” comes from the extremely long-range data links the technology enables. The distances LoRa signals can travel [exceed 700km](https://tech-journal.semtech.com/university-of-zaragoza-breaks-long-range-lorawan-based-signal-record). Generally, however, LoRa communications range from up to three miles (five kilometers) in urban areas, and up to 10 miles (15km) in more rural areas. ![](https://play.vidyard.com/zT9wx4paWnPQNmvWX7fB6A.jpg) Operating at the physical layer, LoRa enables devices to translate data into RF signals, sending messages over the air using chirp spread spectrum communications and the license-free radio bands. A key characteristic of solutions built for the Internet of Things (IoT) that use devices built with LoRa chipsets is their ultra-low power requirements. Sensors and other devices built with LoRa chips can last for up to 10 years on a single battery. In turn, LoRaWAN® is fast becoming the de facto standard for LPWAN deployments. Managed by the [LoRa Alliance®](https://www.lora-alliance.org), the LoRaWAN standard is an asynchronous software protocol which uses the LoRa physical layer. By using LoRa and LoRaWAN, very large-scale flexible networks are possible. ## Learn More ![](https://play.vidyard.com/sH5PVAGX196UzG1ABCWdYC.jpg) ### The LoRa Ecosystem Supported by networks around the globe, the Internet of Things is changing our world. This video explores the ecosystem and ever-increasing number of LoRa-based use cases. Browse a selection of featured [LoRa ecosystem companies](https://www.semtech.com/lora/ecosystem) on our website.  ### Amazon Sidewalk [Amazon Sidewalk](https://www.semtech.com/sidewalk) is enabling new services that benefit everyone like helping to locate lost items, extending the working range of smart devices, and providing limitless possibilities for developer and community innovation. LoRa is the one of the foundational technology powering Amazon Sidewalk to provide [an extremely long-range wireless reach](https://tech-journal.semtech.com/taking-your-application-beyond-the-sidewalk-the-longest-range-mode-of-amazons-new-protocol), creating a true community network for devices. For those just getting started, [this blog post](https://tech-journal.semtech.com/amazon-sidewalk-is-open-for-developers) might be helpful. Learn more about Amazon Sidewalk and what you can do with it [here](https://aws.amazon.com/iot-core/sidewalk/). ![](https://play.vidyard.com/z8kvwBp7Y4ogEn3bhjsudE.jpg) ### LoRa Modulation Technology and LoRaWAN Protocol Learn about the LoRa modulation technology and how it is used in conjunction with the LoRaWAN standard to create very large-scale networks and deploy an IoT solution. ## What Can I Do With LoRa? LoRa allows you to create IoT solutions for a wide variety of use cases. Solutions with LoRa devices and the LoRaWAN standard have been deployed in a wide variety of use cases around the world. In Africa, they are being used to [combat the poaching of wildlife](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_VdHwD6IlDs&t=471), while in [Calgary](https://info.semtech.com/smart-city-calgary-white-paper-download) and [Glasgow](https://censis.org.uk/censis_projects/glasgow-pioneers-iot-connectivity-with-new-lora-network/), they are being used to manage entire cities, in regard to everything from monitoring air quality to public transportation. On a smaller scale, LoRa and LoRaWAN are being used to maximize the [efficient use of office space](https://info.semtech.com/workspace_optimization_white_paper_download). These solutions are even being used to simply determine the number of people in a given location, answering such questions as: “Is there room on the bus for more people?” and “How long is the line in the cafeteria?” Elsewhere, LoRa and LoRaWAN are being used for [smart water metering](https://www.semtech.com/uploads/technology/LoRa/app-briefs/Semtech-UseCase-Birdz-smart_metering_web.pdf). In still other places, they are being used to [manage traffic congestion](https://www.semtech.com/uploads/technology/LoRa/app-briefs/Semtech_Cities_SmartParkingMeter_AppBrief-FINAL.pdf) related to people looking for a place to park, be it on the street or in a private garage. So, what can you do with LoRa? Almost anything! ## How Do I Implement LoRa? 1. Identify and understand your use case. What you want to achieve with your solution will influence how you build and deploy it. 2. Understand the technology. A very-long-range communications technology, LoRa devices can connect thousands of devices (such as sensors, actuators and tags), both deep indoors and over very long distances, all while supporting an incredibly long battery life in those devices – up to ten years or more. For a quick introduction to the protocol, watch [The LoRaWAN Network Protocol Overview video.](https://www.semtech.com/company/video/wireless-rf/lora-network-protocol-overview) For more information about the technology and how it works, check out the [Learning Center](https://learn.semtech.com). Here, you will find a wealth of education and training opportunities. If you're just starting out with LoRa and LoRaWAN, work through the free Academy for LoRaWAN, which offers a foundational understanding of LoRa devices and the LoRaWAN standard. If you're already familiar, and want to start building solutions, check out our [Hands-on Labs](https://learn.semtech.com). Here, you'll find step-by-step walk-throughs to help you get your solutions up and running quickly. 3. Select the right hardware for your region and use case. When it comes to radio gateways, you will likely want to deploy pico cells for indoor applications, and macro cells for outdoor applications. [Semtech’s LoRa Connect™](https://www.semtech.com/products/wireless-rf/lora-connect) SX127x family of chips was launched in 2013 and has been widely used in a number of industries. It features Gen 1 LoRa IP and a flexible modem and packet engine set, making it suitable for LoRaWAN or proprietary protocols. LoRa Connect SX126x devices were introduced in 2018 and feature Gen 2 LoRa IP in a smaller 4x4 mm package and drastically improved power efficiency. With their reworked RF front-end architecture, they can be used worldwide and are typically a better choice for new designs. Semtech has also introduced [LoRa Connect LR1121](https://www.semtech.com/products/wireless-rf/lora-connect/lr1121). With Gen 3 LoRa IP and state-of-the art performance, the LR1121 adds dual-band capability and pin compatibility to other devices in the [LoRa Edge™](https://www.semtech.com/products/wireless-rf/lora-edge/lr1110) portfolio, in which GNSS and Wi-Fi passive scanners are available. For more information about selecting a chip, watch Semtech’s video [Selecting the Right LoRa IC for Your Application](https://www.semtech.com/company/video/company-lora-technology-video/semtechs-david-armour-at-the-things-conference-2019). 4. Prototype and build your devices. You'll probably also be interested in the How to Build & Deploy a Network Using the LoRaWAN Protocol lab, which walks you through the end-to-end deployment of a LoRaWAN network, from building a device and a gateway that feature LoRa, to building and deploying a network using the ChipStack network server, which leverages the LoRaWAN standard. Best of all, it’s completely free! Of course, you can always start from scratch, adding a chip and an MCU to a circuit board and building from there, or you can start with one of the many reference boards from a variety of manufacturers. For more information about building a sensor, watch [LoRaWAN Sensors (Part 1)](https://www.semtech.com/company/video/wireless-rf/lorawan-sensors-part-1-prototyping), and for information about joining a device and communicating with your network, watch [LoRaWAN Sensors (Part 2)](https://www.semtech.com/company/video/wireless-rf/lorawan-sensors-part-2-join-and-bi-directional-network-demonstration).  For more hands-on videos, visit our [video library](https://www.semtech.com/company/videos). For a hands-on guide, visit [LoRa on-premise](https://learn.semtech.com/enrol/index.php?id=4).  ## How Do I Test LoRa? Testing LoRa-based Devices As Sebastien Lebreton explains in his blog post ([Expert Series: Testing Devices Featuring LoRa \[How To\]](https://tech-journal.semtech.com/expert-series-testing-devices-featuring-lora-how-to?hs_preview=osuIrayJ-37018265514)), “decent test coverage can be obtained with only a few tests. Rest assured, it will not be all that expensive or time-consuming.” Getting Devices Certified The LoRa Alliance only promotes devices that have been LoRaWAN CertifiedCM. To be certified, devices using LoRaWAN must pass a comprehensive and rigorous suite of tests to ensure they meet quality and performance standards. There is now a way to prepare devices to meet these standards prior to sending them for formal certification. The [LoRaWAN Certification Test Tool](https://lora-alliance.org/lorawan-certification/#how-to-certify) (LCTT) is available to LoRa Alliance members across the globe. The LCTT is a “pre-test” tool designed to be used by device manufacturers to ensure their devices meet the requirements for performance and compatibility with LoRaWAN networks. The key benefit of this tool is that full testing devices, including regression testing and debugging, can be done prior to submitting for formal certification. Device manufacturers can save time and money by pre-testing their devices before sending them for certification. Once the pre-testing is complete and devices are ready for market, it is important that device manufacturers have their devices officially certified. Fortunately, there are several [LoRa Alliance Authorized Test Houses](https://lora-alliance.org/lorawan-certification-test-houses/) around the globe that can validate and certify devices for sale as LoRaWAN-compatible. For more information about certification, contact the LoRa Alliance. ### Testing Tools In addition to the LoRaWAN Certification Test Tool, several test equipment suppliers offer measurement tools that can be very helpful in testing LoRa-based devices: [Anritsu MT8870A Universal Wireless Test Set](https://www.anritsu.com/en-GB/test-measurement/products/mt8870a) [Rohde & Schwarz LoRa Test Solutions](https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/us/solutions/test-and-measurement/wireless-communication/iot-m2m/lorawan/lorawan-theme_234038.html) [RWC5020B Tester for LoRa / LoRaWAN​](https://www.redwoodcomm.com/product/01.php) *Semtech, the Semtech logo and LoRa are registered trademarks or service marks of Semtech Corporation or its subsidiaries.* --- [LoRa](https://blog.semtech.com/topic/lora) [LoRa Developers](https://blog.semtech.com/topic/lora-developers) [Internet of Things](https://blog.semtech.com/topic/internet-of-things) [LoRaWAN](https://blog.semtech.com/topic/lorawan) ### Sign Up for Blog Updates Get innovation delivered to your inbox. Sign up for our blog and stay on top of the very latest from Semtech. ### Related Blogs: [CES 2026: Semtech Showcases Next-Generation IoT Innovation with LoRa® and Edge AI Solutions](https://blog.semtech.com/ces-2026-semtech-showcases-next-generation-iot-innovation-with-lora-and-edge-ai-solutions) January 27, 2026 [wM-Bus and LoRaWAN® Demo with LR1121 and LR2021](https://blog.semtech.com/wm-bus-and-lorawan-demo-with-lr1121-and-lr2021) November 8, 2025 [One-Channel Hub: A Compact LoRaWAN® Access Point for Cost-Effective Internet of Things (IoT)](https://blog.semtech.com/one-channel-hub-a-compact-lorawan-access-point-for-cost-effective-internet-of-things-iot) December 12, 2025 [Semtech](https://blog.semtech.com/) - [Sierra Wireless](https://www.sierrawireless.com/) - [LoRa](https://www.semtech.com/lora) - [Products](https://www.semtech.com/products) - [Technology](https://www.semtech.com/technology) - [Design Resources](https://www.semtech.com/design-support/product-guides) - [About Semtech](https://www.semtech.com/company) ### Quick Links - 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[mySemtech](https://semtech.force.com/DP) - [Contact](https://www.semtech.com/company/contact) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Joseph Knapp", "url" : "https://blog.semtech.com/author/joseph-knapp" }, "dateModified" : "2025-03-07T23:10:35.466Z", "datePublished" : "2018-12-14T08:00:00.000Z", "headline" : "What Is LoRa®?", "image" : [ "https://blog.semtech.com/hubfs/lora-learn-blog-social.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.semtech.com/what-is-lora", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blog.semtech.com/hubfs/Imported%20sitepage%20images/semtech-logo.svg" }, "name" : "Semtech" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Joseph Knapp" }, "dateModified" : "March 7, 2025, 11:10:35 PM", "datePublished" : "2018-12-14 08:00:00", "description" : "LoRaWAN® is fast becoming the de facto standard for LPWAN deployments. 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