Jola Cloud Solutions' Blog

IoT Vendors

Posted by Cherie Howlett on 27-Aug-2025 16:59:32

The best IoT vendor will be the one that’s as committed to helping you grow your IoT business as you are. Jola only sells through the channel and therefore only succeeds when our partners succeed.

Jola developed the first fully featured mobile data management portal within Mobile Manager, enabling Jola partners to provision and manage their connectivity as efficiently and profitably as possible. 

Jola launched MRGTM, the first mobile data Go To Market programme for the channel. Participants in this programme have transformed their businesses thanks to the resources that Jola commits to helping them train staff, develop processes, and identify and close IoT opportunities within their customer base.

Jola launched the first zero-touch IoT hardware solutions, enabling channel partners to deliver CPE to their customers with bespoke configurations and remote management that work first time, out of the box, without requiring any staging or configuration by their own engineers.

Jola operates independently of any single Mobile Network Operator (MNO). We offer solutions that work on any network, anywhere in the world, whether the requirement is public Internet access or a fully private secure cloud. Our products are designed to enable our partners to distinguish themselves and stand out from basic services often offered elsewhere.

You will always achieve greater success when you operate as a unique provider. Partnering with an MNO means that you’ll only offer the services they are capable of supplying. You might even find yourself competing with that very same MNO in many opportunities. Working with an independent channel-only IoT provider such as Jola means that you’ll stand out from the crowd and be able to offer truly differentiated solutions that meet all your customers' requirements.

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Topics: IoT

Support from Suppliers on IoT opportunities

Posted by Adrian Sunderland on 20-Aug-2025 17:14:26

Support

All resellers and MSPs working with a trusted supplier like Jola can identify as having an IoT practice, much like how they might currently have a cybersecurity practice. Instead of viewing IoT as just a product, see it as a toolkit that can solve many of your customers’ issues. Your customers face problems that you can address using IoT.

The best suppliers will have the products, portals, and staff to help their channel partners succeed. Although IoT is complex, with the right supplier, it's not difficult.

If you’re new to IoT, choosing the right IoT provider can be pivotal between success and failure. At Jola, we have created a comprehensive go-to-market process to help our partners evaluate their strengths and weaknesses, develop essential skills, identify opportunities, and secure their first deal. When we guide them through this process, and one of our partners finally secures their first deal, the confidence it builds can be truly transformational.

Key Trends

A key trend driving the as-a-service model is the shift to IP and the upcoming PSTN switch-off. Millions of PSTN lines in the UK are soon to be phased out. Upgrading to broadband is costly, and the capital expenses of converters and 4G routers quickly add up. Device-as-a-service models have addressed this issue with no upfront hardware costs, low monthly fees, and additional benefits like ‘advance replacement’ and free returns for faulty routers.

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Topics: IoT

IoT Technologies in Demand

Posted by Adrian Sunderland on 14-Aug-2025 16:19:52

The vast majority of demand from the channel is driven by the same core themes, which are reliability, security, flexibility, and cost savings.

Most IoT requirements we encounter are mission critical for the end customer, so as a result, we sell 10 multi-network SIMs for every single network SIM. We even have some sites where we’ve delivered Starlink satellite connectivity alongside 5G mobile data to provide belt and braces high-speed connectivity.

We’ve all seen the threat posed by cyberattacks through the disruption caused to both M&S and the Co-op. Cybersecurity is no longer just a benefit; it must be integral to any digital solution, IoT included. Jola has safeguarded all our public IP and Private APN traffic with continuous real-time Cloudflare protection since 2022. This has shielded Jola’s resellers and their end-users from thousands of DDoS attacks that could have otherwise disrupted their businesses and increased their costs.

Compelling events

The best opportunities are always those where a compelling event impacts organisations. The PSTN Switch-off and the 3G Switch-off are excellent examples of such events.

You’d be surprised how many devices are connected to PSTN lines that don’t require broadband. We’ve replaced PSTN lines with IoT solutions in various applications such as remote wind farms, lift shafts, and sheltered housing developments.

The 3G switch-off is prompting users of payment terminals, ATMs, vehicle trackers, and door entry systems to seek new devices, new SIM cards, and alternative solutions.

I’m interested in trends linked to our biggest challenges. Two of the most pressing issues we face are climate change and the quality and efficiency of our public services. IoT is being widely used in both areas in innovative ways, presenting an opportunity for the channel.

Our strategy

Jola helps partners to identify prospects with immediate needs for IoT solutions through our six-step Mobile-data Revenue Generator™ (MRG) programme. We develop unique solutions that partners cannot obtain elsewhere, at competitive prices, ensuring a healthy margin. As a channel-only provider, partners can rely on us to assist them in pitching and closing deals.

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Topics: IoT

The IoT Market

Posted by Adrian Sunderland on 14-Aug-2025 16:17:41

A Chanel Perspective

The IoT market was formerly the domain of Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). This is no longer the case; there is now a significant role for the channel. We are increasingly helping resellers to identify IoT opportunities or respond to inbound enquiries within their existing base. MNOs can truly be compared to utility companies. They must manage large-scale infrastructure projects, such as expanding their 5G networks and continuously improving coverage. However, the organisational mindset that successfully delivers these large projects differs from that found in our most successful, rapidly growing entrepreneurial channel businesses. We secure business by being innovative, adaptable, and responsive to the ever-changing needs of customers.

When MNOs dominated the market, customers were mainly organisations resembling them. So, when the large utility company decided to deploy smart meters, it turned to the large MNOs for assistance. However, now it isn’t just the huge multinationals seeking to streamline and optimise their business using IoT. It’s equally likely to be a company with 50 to 500 employees that already trusts you with their telecoms or IT services.

The future of IoT

The IoT opportunities that were common a few years ago mainly focused on supporting low-usage mobile applications such as vehicle tracking, handheld card processing, and smart metering. Recent advances, like the expanding 5G coverage and the continuous decrease in cost per MB, mean that almost no connectivity application now cannot be supported by a mobile data solution instead of a fixed line.

The rapid development of AI is creating entirely new IoT use cases. From vehicle tracking in the past, we now see resellers with AI-powered cameras offering real-time collision avoidance on building sites. We are actively involved in self-driving vehicle pilot programmes around the world through UK-based resellers. IoT and AI are also increasingly being used as part of net-zero projects to optimise the use of renewable energy sources and battery storage.

Taking the first steps

You may have never sold an IoT solution before, or you might have had an unsatisfactory partnership with an MNO in the past. As a channel-only supplier, Jola only succeeds when our partners succeed. We aim to give you the confidence to tell your customers that you have an IoT practice. We will support you every step of the way with an award-winning go-to-market strategy, impressive case studies, unmatched products, a cutting-edge portal, and excellent support.

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Topics: IoT

Making Money from Mobile Data

Posted by Cherie Howlett on 14-Aug-2025 16:15:25

How to get involved

Look for a channel-only supplier with:

  • A wide range of differentiated SIMs that stand out against vanilla MNO offerings
  • Differentiated hardware devices that are easy to sell, deploy and support
  • Ready-made solutions for common use cases such as PSTN replacement
  • OPEX and CAPEX financial models on hardware
  • A real-time, fully automated, API-enabled, white-label portal that connects to every mobile network in the world
  • Best-in-class network security as standard
  • A go-to-market programme to help you find and win mobile data opportunities

Products  

Our ability to innovate is one of our success stories at Jola. We continually innovate to help partners win deals. We offer a wide range of differentiated solutions from single-network SIMs for phones, tablets and mobile broadband solutions to multi-network QR eSIMs, M2M and IoT SIMs, fixed IP SIMs for WiFi, ticketing systems, monitoring devices and CCTV cameras. We provide innovative PSTN replacement solutions with battery back-up, suitable for lifts in shopping centres. We recently launched intelligent Teltonika routers, which arrive plug-and-play for digital signage solutions in supermarkets.

Portals

We were the first to market with a real-time automated portal, and we continue to lead and innovate in this area. MSPs and resellers do not want multiple supplier portals to deal with; they want the ability to order a wide range of technologies from multiple network operators in a single portal. They also want direct access to activate SIMs, add bolt-ons, and share data across accounts.

Security

Jola has a fully redundant and highly scalable IP edge network specifically designed to deliver high-performance and secure mobile data services. Our partners’ critical services now operate over the Cloudflare network. Cloudflare’s 121 Tbps global network blocks an average of 86 billion threats each day, including some of the largest DDoS attacks in history.

MRG™

Jola is assisting channel partners in identifying prospects with immediate needs for mobile data SIMs through our six-step Mobile-data Revenue Generator™ (MRG) programme. We develop unique solutions that partners cannot obtain elsewhere, at competitive prices, ensuring a healthy margin. As a channel-only provider, partners can rely on us to assist them in pitching and closing deals.

To find out more request our partner pack.

Request our partner pack

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Topics: mobile data

Network Expansion

Posted by Cherie Howlett on 14-Aug-2025 16:12:32

Rollouts

There has been significant progress with 5G.  We’ve seen the 5G footprint improve across all the networks.  However, the big news is that we’ve also seen 5G standalone deployed by EE, O2 and Vodafone in the last 12 months.

Standalone 5G delivers on the full promise of 5G with lower latency, higher data speeds, better efficiency, improved reliability and support for large-scale IoT.

Further progress

2025 will continue to see both the 5G footprint and 5G capabilities improve.  2025 has also seen the merger of Three UK and Vodafone which should provide improvements for customers of both networks.

PSTN Switch-off

The PSTN switch-off will have a huge impact on the channel. For Jola, it has been the underlying reason for the majority of the growth we’ve experienced over the last 12 months. This compelling event leads businesses to reevaluate how they use telecom services to meet their business needs.  The conclusion in many cases has been that 4G and 5G services can do more for less without complex or time-consuming installation of replacement fixed lines.

Satellite

Satellite has the potential to have a significant impact on the channel.  Most resellers will be familiar with the need to deliver solutions to multi-branch businesses.  These businesses could be offices, retail locations, petrol forecourts, schools, EV charging stations etc.  The reality is that a single operator is unlikely to be able to deliver the right service, on-time and on budget to all these locations.  5G and satellite are an ideal solution being able to be installed rapidly and provide fibre-like performance either as a precursor to fibre being installed or as the permanent solution.

We recently worked on a large retail rollout where satellite was chosen as the standard delivery mechanism and alternatives chosen only where satellite couldn’t be installed due to landlord restrictions.

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Topics: PSTN Replacement

Jola launches a range of Intelligent Teltonika Routers

Posted by Cherie Howlett on 14-Aug-2025 16:09:29

Jola launches new, affordable intelligent 4G and 5G routers for the channel. Teltonika routers from Jola feature unique capabilities that aren’t available elsewhere. 

Jola partners can order the new routers in Mobile Manager with a choice of SIM options to suit every requirement. Devices arrive with the Jola custom firmware installed, providing zero-touch auto-configuration saving resellers time and money. They also come with RMS for remote management access and VPN services. 

“Our new range of intelligent routers are built in Europe and have the e-mark meaning partners can create super-fast, reliable, smart solutions in buses, trains and coaches. Primary and secondary failover solutions can be designed for digital signage and POS systems in shops, car parks and offices. Jola partners can manage connected devices as well as estates of SIMs within our real-time portal Mobile Manager. Our devices are reliable, cost-effective and easy to manage. Our partners are winning more bids as they can save their customers thousands of pounds on-site surveys and engineers.” Adrian Sunderland CEO. 

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Topics: mobile data

What technologies are in demand in transport and logistics?

Posted by Cherie Howlett on 14-Aug-2025 16:05:43

Whilst the tracking of assets remains crucial, smart transport networks are now delivering substantial benefits to passengers, operators, and local authorities. Urban services are becoming more efficient, effective, and safe.

End-to-end solutions within the industry leverage advanced technologies like 4G routers and cameras. Tracking systems for trams, buses, and trains are becoming more sophisticated, accurately estimating and advertising arrival times while factoring in potential delays. These solutions often rely on 4G data SIMs, some with a fixed IP or delivered via a secure Private APN.

Warehouses are increasingly adopting these solutions not only to stay competitive but also to realise significant benefits in terms of manpower savings and cost reductions. The advent of 5G is further empowering companies, even in rural locations, to adopt new technologies that streamline and enhance workflow tracking.

What do MSPs need from suppliers in this sector?

In serving the evolving needs of the transport and logistics sector, resellers and Managed Service Providers (MSPs) need to offer choice and control. A wholesale supplier with a diverse range of connectivity options, from single to multi-network to Fixed IP, is essential. Many MSPs have established robust relationships within this sector, understanding the challenges faced and proposing customised solutions.

End-users require continuous connectivity and control over their data usage to prevent data overage charges. Jola’s partners play a crucial role in managing global SIM estates through Mobile Manager, providing real-time data usage insights, alerts bolt-ons, and data pools. These tools enable efficient monitoring of usage, preventing bill shock. Additionally, the use of mobile data networks expedites start-up processes, eliminating delays associated with lengthy fixed-line installations.

What are the key challenges for MSPs in this market?

Service providers, without the assistance of an intelligent aggregator, encounter several challenges in the 4G landscape. Firstly, varying network strengths in specific locations necessitate relationships with multiple network providers. Secondly, the absence of data usage tracking leaves devices susceptible to high overage charges when exceeding monthly allowances. Thirdly, there is a crucial need for a secure channel for transmitting financial data.

Cost-effective multi-network SIMs, coupled with an online ordering and management portal, address these challenges. Portals which facilitate data usage tracking, enable the setup of usage alerts, and allow for the retroactive application of bolt-ons ensure data costs are controlled. Data pools provide the flexibility of sharing data across multiple SIMs, while buffer pools eliminate high data overage charges. Furthermore, the utilisation of Private APN networks enhances security by facilitating the encrypted transmission of data across a private mobile network.

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Topics: M2M

Become the local expert

Posted by Cherie Howlett on 02-Jul-2025 10:30:39

Education

The channel educates businesses to adopt new technologies and find smarter ways to solve problems. We highlight products being switched off, such as 3G and PSTN, to help companies prepare with improved, more cost-effective solutions.

New Technologies

With technologies being switched off and the current economic climate, demand for cost-effective, managed mobile data solutions from the channel has never been as high. We are seeing an exponential rise in demand for SIMs, not only for use in 5G/4G routers, pre-Ethernet connectivity and Ethernet back-up but also for digital signage, monitoring and smart devices.  Resellers, manufacturers and service companies are finding new uses for mobile data daily, and as we accelerate towards 5G, this is unlikely to slow down.

Marketing is key

Companies need to know their target audience, requirements, buying habits, competition and unique selling points. Businesses need a multi-touch marketing strategy to reflect common problems and highlight unique solutions. It is important to be visible on and offline. Your website needs to be visible in searches for your audience, your content should be clear, and your call to action should be easy. Be where your buyers are. By joining local trade associations, winning and promoting opportunities won in the local area and delivering a constantly reliable and excellent service.

The Channel

Our partners pride themselves on excellence and trusted relationships with their customers. They understand their unique requirements and deliver what they say they will when they say they will. Being local, they can spend time with customers face-to-face in their offices, offering personalised support that the competition cannot compete with.

MSPs and resellers partner with aggregators and experts in their fields to allow them to deliver the widest range of solutions at the best possible prices. They look for partners with automated portals so they can retain control of their customer experience.

Suppliers

Channel-only suppliers are only successful if their resellers are successful. As a result, the best channel-only suppliers will have a tried-and-tested go-to-market programme to help resellers be successful as quickly as possible. Jola partners benefit from our MRG™ programme, a proven process for targeting and closing opportunities, maximising customer satisfaction.

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Topics: mobile data

Hybrid Working

Posted by Cherie Howlett on 24-Jun-2025 14:11:21

During lock-down businesses were forced to make remote working available for all employees very quickly. Jola helped partners supply mobile data solutions to suit every requirement. Since then, we have seen a rise in the use of cloud-based, collaborative software, such as Microsoft Teams for seamless hybrid working. A focus on communication and collaboration is required to support this. 

Hybrid working has many benefits. For employees, they don’t need to battle the traffic every day and can manage their workload effectively.

Many of our employees work in the office a couple of days a week to facilitate wellbeing, social lunches and informal meetings. This encourages cross-departmental team building and problem solving. We are conscious of employee burn out and encourage regular coffee breaks and lunchtime walks wherever they work.

Being in the same room for key meetings is also useful to ensure every participant is fully engaged and not distracted by someone at the door or urgent emails coming in.

New starters can feel a little isolated. It is useful when starting a new job to be in the office to build relationships with key departments to know who to go to with any issues and who can support them in their role. Corporate culture is hard to learn remotely when you are not living and breathing it in the same office as your colleagues.

At Jola, we work with with our partners to build differentiated propositions to facilitate hybrid working. We help partners to create a compelling proposition, highlighting how it uniquely solves the problem and the current and future benefits.

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Topics: mobile data

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