PTA Updates IoT and Short-Range Devices Framework to Regulate Licensed and Shared Spectrum
New Policy Aims to Support Secure Growth of Pakistan’s IoT Ecosystem
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has revised its regulatory framework for Internet of Things (IoT) and Short Range Devices (SRD) to establish clearer rules for deploying services across licensed, shared, and unlicensed spectrum.
The updated framework is designed to support the development of a national IoT ecosystem while ensuring spectrum discipline, network security, and protection of primary users.
Clear Guidelines for Licensed and Shared Spectrum Use
Under the revised policy, IoT services may operate using either:
Licensed and exclusively assigned frequency bands, or
Shared and unlicensed spectrum, including bands used for Low Power Wide Area Networks (LPWAN) on a non-interference and non-protection basis
PTA stated that special emphasis has been placed on defining requirements for IoT services operating in shared spectrum, in line with international best practices and Pakistan’s broader digital transformation goals.
Classification of IoT Services by Frequency Bands
The framework categorizes IoT and SRD services based on spectrum usage:
Licensed spectrum services include cellular mobile operators and other entities holding exclusive frequency assignments from PTA or the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB)
Mission-critical IoT services are required to operate strictly on licensed spectrum under defined licensing conditions
This approach ensures reliability and security for applications where uninterrupted connectivity is essential.
Rules for Shared and License-Exempt Spectrum Devices
For services using shared or unlicensed spectrum, the framework covers:
Short Range Device (SRD) bands
Ultra Wide Band (UWB) devices
Long-range IoT services operating under a newly introduced LPWAN license category
Devices operating in license-exempt bands must comply with technical limits, operating conditions, and type approval requirements. These services are permitted strictly on a secondary, non-interference basis, and PTA has emphasized that any device causing harmful interference must immediately stop operating.
Introduction of LPWAN Licensing Regime
Under the new framework, LPWAN licenses will be issued by PTA under the Cellular Value Added Services (CVAS) category. License holders must comply with several obligations, including:
Site clearance and gateway registration
Power limit compliance
Data localization requirements
National security and lawful interception obligations
PTA clarified that IoT data cannot be stored outside Pakistan without prior approval, and services may be suspended if required on national security grounds.
Support for Research and Development
The framework also introduces provisions for research and development (R&D). Companies, academic institutions, government bodies, and law enforcement agencies may conduct non-commercial IoT testing without obtaining an LPWAN license, subject to strict conditions and defined time limits.
PTA and FAB to Oversee Compliance
PTA, in coordination with FAB, will oversee compliance, spectrum management, and interference resolution. The regulator aims to strike a balance between facilitating IoT innovation and ensuring secure, orderly, and efficient spectrum use.
Strengthening Pakistan’s Digital Infrastructure
The revised framework marks a significant step toward creating a secure and scalable IoT environment in Pakistan, supporting innovation while safeguarding spectrum integrity and national interests.
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