Forest Rock Data SIM Solutions – Customer Guide
Overview
Forest Rock can provide a selection of Data SIM solutions that provide dedicated cellular connectivity for Building Management Systems (BMS) and remote building assets using 4G/5G Routers from our Teltonika Range.
When the Client Network Isn’t Available
On new projects, it’s common for the client’s IT infrastructure to be incomplete, delayed, or not yet commissioned. In these scenarios, relying on broadband, Wi-Fi, or corporate networks can introduce unnecessary delays and dependencies.
Independent Connectivity During Commissioning
Forest Rock’s Data SIM solutions, combined with proven and robust Teltonika industrial routers, remove dependency on client IT infrastructure by delivering a fully self-contained cellular network connection.
This approach allows your BMS systems to be brought online immediately and commissioned remotely, without waiting for IT network availability or formal handover. It also avoids delays associated with approvals for IP addressing, routing, and firewall configuration.
By decoupling deployment from the client’s IT programme, projects can progress on schedule, with secure and reliable connectivity maintained throughout commissioning and providing early operation.
Outcome
The outcome is a much faster deployment, greater reliability during commissioning, and clear ownership of connectivity by the BMS provider.
This also ensures that critical systems can be installed, tested, and remotely monitored during the post handover validation period, without delays or dependency on external infrastructure, allowing projects to progress in a controlled and predictable manner and reducing post handover call outs.
All solutions are offered on flexible 30-day terms to support changing operational needs.
Identifying the Right Solution
Before selecting a SIM type, it’s important to understand the intended outcome.
A simple question helps define this:
“What are you trying to achieve?”
Most use cases fall into three categories:
1. Monitoring Only
The requirement is to send data from a device to a cloud platform, with no need for remote access into the equipment.
Typical applications:
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Energy monitoring
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Utility metering
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Indoor environmental monitoring
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Alarm and fault reporting
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BMS data collection
Recommended solution:
Standard Data SIM
2. Remote Access
An engineer needs to connect directly to equipment from a remote location.
Typical applications:
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Controller configuration and programming
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Remote diagnostics and fault finding
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Planned or reactive BMS maintenance
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Firmware updates
Recommended solution:
Fixed Public IP
3. Secure Remote Access
Remote connectivity is required, but with enhanced security and controlled access.
Typical applications:
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Multi-site portfolios
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Multiple engineers or users
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Corporate IT environments
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Critical or compliance-driven infrastructure
Recommended solution:
SSL VPN (Cisco AnyConnect) Call our sales team to learn more about this.
Solution Options
Standard Data SIM
Function
Provides outbound connectivity for devices sending data to cloud-based platforms.
Best suited for
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BMS monitoring
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Energy and metering systems
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Environmental sensors
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General telemetry
Key advantage
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Simple, cost-effective deployment
Limitation
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No direct inbound remote access to the device
Fixed Public IP
Function
Assigns a permanent public IP address to allow direct remote access to site equipment.
Best suited for
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BMS controllers
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CCTV and security systems
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Remote maintenance and diagnostics
Key advantage
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Direct, always-available access from anywhere
Important consideration
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As the device is accessible via the internet, appropriate cybersecurity measures (e.g. firewalls, strong credentials) must be implemented
SSL VPN (Cisco AnyConnect)
Function
Provides secure remote access via an encrypted VPN tunnel, without exposing devices to the public internet.
Best suited for
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Corporate environments
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Multi-site estates
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Critical infrastructure
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Security-sensitive applications
Key advantage
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Controlled, authenticated access with enhanced security
Summary
Forest Rock Data SIM solutions are designed to match the operational needs of modern BMS and smart building deployments. By selecting the correct connectivity approach, whether simple monitoring, direct remote access, or secure managed access, customers can ensure reliable performance, faster deployment, and improved system control across their estate.
If you need more help:
Then why not contact our sales or support team.
sales@forestrock.co.uk or support@forestrock.co.uk
Our team can help with routers and “Data SIM” selection
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IoT Devices for BMS, Automation & Smart Connectivity | Forest Rock