Internet of Things

The concept of the “Internet of Things” (IoT) is no longer the stuff of science fiction but an essential part of the reality of our everyday lives. Today, there are more than 13 billion interconnected digital and electronic devices in operation globally, the equivalent of nearly 2 devices for every human on earth. Although the most common examples of the IoT consist of so-called “smart home” devices such as programmable thermostats and remote controlled appliances, the largest share of future growth of the IoT is likely to come from applications of the technology in virtually every sector of the economy, from commercial and industrial environments to healthcare and public safety.

IoT systems allow users to achieve deeper automation, analysis, and integration within a system.

They improve the reach of these areas and their accuracy. IoT utilizes existing and emerging technology for sensing, networking, and robotics.

IoT exploits recent advances in software, falling hardware prices, and modern attitudes towards technology. Its new and advanced elements bring major changes in the delivery of products, goods, and services; and the social, economic, and political impact of those changes.

*IoT − Key Features*

The most important features of IoT include artificial intelligence, connectivity, sensors, active engagement, and small device use. A brief review of these features is given below:

 AI – IoT essentially makes virtually anything “smart”, meaning it enhances every aspect of life with the power of data collection, artificial intelligence algorithms, and networks. This can mean something as simple as enhancing your refrigerator and cabinets to detect when milk and your favorite cereal run low, and to then place an order with your preferred grocer.

 Connectivity – New enabling technologies for networking, and specifically IoT networking, mean networks are no longer exclusively tied to major providers. Networks can exist on a much smaller and cheaper scale while still being practical. IoT creates these small networks between its system devices.

 Sensors – IoT loses its distinction without sensors. They act as defining instruments which transform IoT from a standard passive network of devices into an active system capable of real-world integration.

 Active Engagement – Much of today's interaction with connected technology happens through passive engagement. IoT introduces a new paradigm for active content, product, or service engagement.

 Small Devices – Devices, as predicted, have become smaller, cheaper, and more powerful over time. IoT exploits purpose-built small devices to deliver its precision, scalability, and versatility.

*IoT − Advantages*

The advantages of IoT span across every area of lifestyle and business. Here is a list of some of the advantages that IoT has to offer:

 Improved Customer Engagement – Current analytics suffer from blind-spots and significant flaws in accuracy; and as noted, engagement remains passive. IoT completely transforms this to achieve richer and more effective engagement with audiences.

 Technology Optimization – The same technologies and data which improve the customer experience also improve device use, and aid in more potent improvements to technology. IoT unlocks a world of critical functional and field data.

Reduced Waste – IoT makes areas of improvement clear. Current analytics give us superficial insight, but IoT provides real-world information leading to more effective management of resources.

 Enhanced Data Collection – Modern data collection suffers from its limitations and its design for passive use. IoT breaks it out of those spaces, and places it exactly where humans really want to go to analyze our world. It allows an accurate picture of everything.

*IoT − Disadvantages*

Though IoT delivers an impressive set of benefits, it also presents a significant set of challenges. Here is a list of some its major issues:

 Security – IoT creates an ecosystem of constantly connected devices communicating over networks. The system offers little control despite any security measures. This leaves users exposed to various kinds of attackers.

 Privacy – The sophistication of IoT provides substantial personal data in extreme detail without the user's active participation.

 Complexity – Some find IoT systems complicated in terms of design, deployment, and maintenance given their use of multiple technologies and a large set of new enabling technologies.

 Flexibility – Many are concerned about the flexibility of an IoT system to integrate easily with another. They worry about finding themselves with several conflicting or locked systems.

 Compliance – IoT, like any other technology in the realm of business, must comply with regulations. Its complexity makes the issue of compliance seem incredibly challenging when many consider standard software compliance a battle.

*Summary and Conclusion*

The IoT has the potential to dramatically increase the availability of information, and is likely to transform companies and organizations in virtually every industry around the world. As such, finding ways to leverage the power of the IoT is expected to factor into the strategic objectives of most technology companies, regardless of their industry focus. The number of different technologies required to support the deployment and further growth of the IoT places a premium on interoperability, and has resulted in widespread efforts to develop standards and technical specifications that support seamless communication between IoT devices and components. Collaboration between various standards development groups and consolidation of some current efforts will eventually result in greater clarity for IoT technology companies.