Some mobile operators will offer a “private APN” account. This type of account usually has a setup fee but offers the benefit of protection from theft of SIM cards through the use of a unique APN.
APN is an identifier that is supplied by the Outpost device to the network whenever a GPRS connection is made. Outpost devices can connect on public APNs, but if stolen the GPRS connection can be exploited and charged by a thief.
Connections issued using a “private APN” can only connect using the private APN name (with optional username and password).
Private APN can often have additional facilities that are not required by Outpost Central:
- unique IP address per SIM cards (not required)
- direct VPN connection from mobile operator to private APN customer (not required)
Private APNs are recommended but not necessary.
If a private APN is obtained, the APN details including ID, username and password must be communicated to Outpost Central to enable the devices to be pre-programmed.