IoT Trends 2026
The new year has just begun, and developments within IoT are moving faster than ever. New technologies, stricter legislation, and higher demands for data security ensure that you must remain continuously sharp. In this blog, you will read about the most important IoT and private network trends for 2026, giving you a clear picture of what lies ahead!
🛡️ Stricter Cybersecurity Legislation: Unmissable in 2026
Cybersecurity has been in the spotlight for a long time, with terms like NIS2 and the Cyber Resilience Act frequently discussed. However, starting this year, pressure from the EU and national governments is increasing to improve digital security—not just for IT, but also for OT (Operational Technology) and hardware.
The most important cybersecurity guidelines at a glance:
- NIS2: Organizations in vital sectors are required to demonstrably have their digital resilience in order. NIS2 is expected to become an obligation all over Europe, in some countries it is already compulsary.
- Cyber Resilience Act (CRA): Starting in 2027, this European regulation imposes cybersecurity requirements on manufacturers of digital products and software.
- CE RED DA: Hardware is also receiving extra attention. Since last year, the CE RED DA directive has focused on the digital security of wireless devices that connect to the internet, such as 4G and 5G routers.
- IEC 62443: For OT environments, this series of international standards helps with the secure design, implementation, and management of industrial control systems.
🚀 Technology Trends for IoT and Private Networks in 2026
Beyond legislation, we see major developments in technology and applications within IoT and private networks.
1. Smart Energy for a Stable Power Grid
The overcrowded electricity grid leads to outages and long waiting lists for new connections. In 2026, focus is shifting toward smart energy management: gaining insight into consumption and dynamically matching supply and demand.
- Real-time data: Via smart 4G or 5G connectivity, you can collect real-time data on energy flows, allowing systems to react automatically to negative power prices.
- Peak shaving: By storing energy in large battery parks, energy can be supplied back during peak hours to relieve the grid.
- Retrofitting: Buildings are increasingly equipped with smart sensors (like LoRaWAN) to monitor electricity, water, and gas, making older utility buildings future-proof and energy-efficient.
2. IoT as an Extension of Building Management Systems (BMS)
More organizations are expanding existing wired BMS with wireless IoT solutions. This makes Smart Buildings more accessible, cheaper, and flexible.
- Private LoRaWAN: We see a rapid increase in demand for private LoRaWAN networks, for example, by linking LoRaWAN to a KNX-BMS.
- EPBD IV: This year, the EPBD IV will be incorporated into Dutch law, requiring organizations to prove their buildings are managed energy-efficiently.
3. Private 5G in Industrial Environments
While 4G was the standard for years in healthcare and retail, 5G is now shifting toward industrial and logistical environments where connectivity is the difference between uptime and downtime.
- Beyond WiFi: In warehouses with steel structures and moving vehicles, WiFi often fails. Applications like Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and real-time tracking require a stable Private 5G network.
- Hybrid Solutions: Solutions like C-RAN offer a private 4G network that is 5G-ready from the start, allowing for an easy transition later without reinvesting in infrastructure.
4. Secure Remote Management and Device Management
Device management is becoming a critical component of IoT solutions. This includes managing firmware versions, rolling out security updates, and monitoring connected devices.
- Remote Access: Since IoT solutions are often at client locations where direct access is impossible, secure remote management allows for troubleshooting and adjustments from a distance.
- Legal Requirement: With the CRA in 2027, a solid device management platform will no longer be a luxury but a strict requirement to ensure devices stay secure throughout their lifecycle.
5. Increasing Demand for NB-IoT
Within LPWAN, we expect a shift this year. While public LoRaWAN use is decreasing, Private LoRaWAN is growing. Simultaneously, mobile operators are actively investing in NB-IoT/LTE-M.
- Device Availability: Suppliers are bringing more battery-powered NB-IoT devices to the market, making it an attractive addition to the IoT landscape.
- Choice Factors: The choice between NB-IoT and LoRa depends on factors like the number of devices, required coverage, and payload size.
6. Support from Specialized Partners
IoT, private networks, and security are becoming more complex every year. Many organizations reach their limits in managing these changes themselves. We see an increasing trend of companies calling in external IoT experts for advice on security, compliance (like NIS2), and lifecycle management.
Special thanks to MCS Europe for their input.
