Device Network Settings for Vietnam - LTE-M/NB-IoT
Written by Iman Kareem
Updated at September 27th, 2026
Table of Contents
In most cases, with most SIM cards, our latest range of devices that use the Nordic cellular modems will get online automatically.
However, to get the best performance and battery life it is best to:
- Update your device to the latest device firmware and modem firmware
- Set the APN on the device
- Set cellular band masks
Device and Modem Firmware
Updating to the latest firmware, particularly the modem firmware will bring bug fixes and other connectivity improvements. So, it is best to keep your firmware up to date.
Updating Device Firmware in Device Manager
Updating Modem Firmware in Device Manager
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Setting the APN and other Network settings
In many countries, SIMs from local providers do not usually need any additional configuration on our devices to connect to the network. 4G settings can be applied using the DM-Link tool if required.
DNS Troubleshooting on 4G
4G Network Settings - LTE-M and NB-IoT
Our KPN and other roaming SIMs can connect automatically. However, we believe setting the APN helps with faster registrations, which in turn improves battery life and overall stability.
Our 4G devices are able to connect on NB-IoT and LTE-M networks, across well over 30 different frequencies. This allows the device to connect on networks all over the world.
For most deployments, where the device is not travelling between multiple countries, the network will be on a specific handful of bands.
For example, within Vietnam, LTE is deployed by all major operators (Viettel, VNPT/Vinaphone and MobiFone) on band 3 (1800 MHz). Operators also hold band 8 (900 MHz) and band 28 (700 MHz) spectrum. In our testing (August 2026), KPN SIMs registered on NB-IoT on band 3.
When the device attempts to connect, it is best to limit the device to only search for the network on the bands in use in the country (i.e. no need to scan band 5 in Vietnam). Scanning each band takes time, so limit the search space for the lowest possible energy consumption. This is particularly important to do when using roaming SIM cards for the best battery performance. However, only do this if your device is staying within Vietnam.
Registration Strategy
Our Nordic-based devices offer different registration modes which can help save power. For roaming SIMs such as KPN, start with "Low Power" mode. If you see an increase in failed uploads even in good coverage, try "Balanced" mode. More on Registration Strategy modes here.
Settings for Various SIM cards
Admin Parameters - Use Caution
When making admin parameter changes, the connection settings of the device are being edited - which can cause connectivity problems if misconfigured.
To limit the risk of issue
- Always test on a small selection of units, verify operation, then templatise your parameters for bulk deployment
- Double check the APN mentioned below with your SIM provider
Digital Matter KPN SIM Card
Note: Based on limited testing, we have observed that a Manta Fusion (LTE-M/NB-IoT) using a KPN SIM can roam onto the VNPT (Vinaphone) and MobiFone NB-IoT networks in Vietnam, with registrations seen on band 3. As of writing this article in September 2026, KPN does not officially list LTE-M or NB-IoT roaming support in Vietnam. Therefore, while connectivity may work, KPN SIMs could be restricted or blocked from these networks in the future. Contact DM support if you plan to use KPN SIMs in Vietnam.
1. Admin Parameters > Fixed APN → digitalmatter
2. Admin Parameters > 4G Network→ Custom Network → n3
3. System Parameters > Upload Timeout → Low Power
If you see an increase in failed uploads and the device is in a poor coverage area, setting the Registration Strategy to Balanced’ may help
