What is IoT? The internet of things explained

The Internet of Things (IoT) encompasses a vast array of electronics that are not traditional computing devices but are connected to the internet to send and receive data. These include sensors, wearables, robots, drones, connected cars, and smart home devices. IoT isn't just about devices; it also involves wireless technologies like Wi-Fi 6 and 5G, edge computing for processing data near its source, and the use of AI and machine learning for analytics.

IoT is growing rapidly, with predictions estimating 41.6 billion IoT devices by 2025, which could generate almost 80 zettabytes of data. This is nearly half of the projected 175 zettabytes of global data. By 2030, there could be up to 500 billion IoT devices, as more everyday items like smart watches, thermostats, and household appliances become IoT-enabled. Even in homes, IoT extends to devices like smart meters, while in businesses, it covers areas like security cameras, supply chain management, and environmental monitoring.

The IoT ecosystem works by gathering data through connected devices that have IP addresses. These devices vary in complexity, from robots on factory floors to simple sensors detecting temperature changes. The data is then transmitted to a central location, either wirelessly or via wired networks. Before reaching the cloud or a data center, intermediary devices may format and filter the data. Several protocols, such as MQTT and LoRaWAN, are used depending on the device's needs, whether it requires remote monitoring or long-range communication.

Data processing can occur in data centers, the cloud, or at the edge of the network. In critical applications like industrial safety, edge computing is crucial as it minimizes delays by processing data close to the source. This allows for faster response times, such as shutting off a valve before a pipe bursts. Edge devices can also send data upstream for more extensive analysis, ensuring both real-time responsiveness and long-term data storage.

For IoT systems to function effectively, devices must be authenticated, provisioned, and monitored, with regular updates. Many of these processes currently happen within proprietary vendor ecosystems, which can be limiting. However, the industry is moving towards a standards-based approach for managing IoT devices. This shift will enable greater interoperability between devices and ensure they remain secure and functional over time. Communication standards like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, along with specialized protocols, play a vital role in making IoT systems efficient.

Source: https://www.networkworld.com/article/963923/what-is-iot-the-internet-of-things-explained.html