Band 106: Secure, Long-Range Coverage for Utilities
By Andrea Morelli, Ph.D.
July 29, 2025
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Anterix is the primary holder of licensed spectrum in the 900 MHz band (896-901/935-940 MHz) across the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico.
This spectrum has been designated LTE Band 106 (also known as n106 in 5G terminology). 3GPP Release (Rel) 18 standardized Band 106. It expanded support for devices and chipsets compatible with the 900 MHz band. This step enables broader use of 5G technology in private wireless networks.
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Technical Advantages of Band 106
Band 106’s low frequency offers significant advantages for private wireless networks in the utility sector. It enables the transmission and reception of large volumes of data over long distances. This characteristic benefits applications like remote monitoring and control of critical infrastructure, including:
- Power lines
- Transformers
- Pipelines
Nokia collaborated with Anterix for the first successful data call using Band 106. This breakthrough was a significant step toward the utility industry’s adoption of private 5G network technology.
Integrating the Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) spectrum with the 900 MHz band provides complementary coverage. Utility companies can build networks that cover more areas with improved performance by using the CBRS spectrum and 900 MHz band.
CBRS offers higher capacity in certain areas and improves the capabilities of private wireless networks. The 900 MHz band reaches farther and penetrates buildings more easily. Combined, they provide a more reliable and flexible network for modern operations like:
- Smart meters
- Grid automation
- Remote monitoring
The 900 MHz band’s designation as Band 106 and its standardization in 3GPP Rel 18 provide new opportunities for critical industries. Band 106’s integration with CBRS leverages private wireless networks to improve:
- Efficiency
- Resilience
- Operational security
Technical Specifications of Band 106
Band 106, in relation to the 900 MHz spectrum, offers technical specifications suitable for private wireless networks in the utility sector.
The key technical features of Band 106 are:
- Frequency range: Band 106 operates in the 896-901 MHz range for uplink and 935-940 MHz for downlink.
- Bandwidth: This band provides 5 MHz of spectrum for uplink and downlink, which is sufficient data transmission capacity in critical applications.
- Signal propagation: Lower frequencies ensure improved signal penetration and extended coverage through obstacles like buildings and dense vegetation.
- 3GPP standardization: Band 106 is compatible with cellular LTE and 5G technologies and can support devices and chipsets.
Band 106 offers significant advantages for utilities, particularly in enhancing smart grid communications. Real-time monitoring and management of electricity distribution improve overall network efficiency and reliability.
Utilities can quickly detect and address potential issues. The capability for remote monitoring is crucial to maintain critical infrastructure, such as substations and transformers. With real-time data collection and remote control, maintenance is conducted proactively to reduce downtime and prevent disruptions.
Another key benefit is the enhanced security of private networks operating on Band 106. These networks oversee data security and ensure reliable, protected communications for mission-critical operations.
Band 106’s technical specifications make it an excellent choice for utilities to modernize their communication infrastructure. It offers extended coverage and signal penetration capabilities, supporting advanced applications.
Comparison Between Band 106 and Band 8
Band 106 and Band 8 operate in the sub-1 GHz frequency range. However, they exhibit key differences in:
- Spectrum allocation
- Usage
- Technical impact
| Feature | Band 106 | Band 8 |
| Frequency Range | 896-901 MHz for uplink; 935-940 MHz for downlink | 880-915 MHz for uplink; 925-960 MHz for downlink |
| Bandwidth | 5 MHz for uplink; 5 MHz for downlink | 35 MHz for uplink; 35 MHz for downlink |
| Primary Use | Private LTE and 5G networks for utilities, smart grids, oil and gas | Commercial LTE (4G) networks, GSM and some IoT applications |
| Signal Penetration | High, like B8, due to low-frequency propagation | High, used for coverage in rural and indoor environments |
| Spectrum Allocation | Dedicated for private networks (Anterix in the U.S.) | Widely used by mobile operators for LTE and GSM |
| 3GPP Standardization | Defined in Rel 18 for LTE and 5G | Supported by 3GPP for LTE (B8 LTE) and GSM (900 MHz) |
Band 106 and Band 8 are adjacent and operate within close frequency ranges. Careful planning is needed to prevent interference in LTE and 5G implementations.
Band 8 is used for public mobile networks and telephony. Band 106 — designated for private networks — caters to industrial and mission-critical applications.
Despite their distinct purposes, the two bands have the potential to work together. Radio frequency (RF) devices and modules could be designed to support both frequencies. This would allow smooth transitions between public networks operating on Band 8 and private networks utilizing Band 106.
Private 5G Network Modules for Smart Utilities
Telit Cinterion enables IoT devices on private networks with our LTE Cat M1/NB2 modules. These industrial-grade modules are certified by the FCC on Anterix’s 900 MHz bands. They provide flexibility and coverage for critical infrastructure applications.
Speak with our experts to discover what our private 5G modules can do for your smart utility use case.
