What ADR changes
ADR stands for Adaptive Data Rate. The network can guide stable devices toward better data rate and transmit power settings based on link quality.
ADR optimizes data rates, airtime, and energy consumption by adjusting parameters such as spreading factor, bandwidth, and transmit power.
When ADR is working well, nearby devices can transmit quickly instead of using slow long-range settings all the time. That saves battery and leaves more airtime for other devices.
Capacity is a system result
LoRaWAN capacity depends on gateway placement, channel count, spreading factor mix, payload size, message frequency, confirmed traffic, downlink volume, and interference.
Adding gateways can improve coverage and capacity, but only if devices and the network are configured to use the improved radio conditions.
ADR should normally be enabled for static devices with stable RF conditions. Mobile trackers or devices in changing environments may need more careful logic because yesterday's best radio setting may not work at the next location.