The Internet of Things (IoT) is becoming increasingly commonplace in both individuals' and businesses' lives. But what is it, and how can it help improve your business efficiency?
What is the Internet of Things?
At its core, the Internet of Things (IoT) is a powerful network of physical devices, such as sensors or controllers, that are connected to the internet and can collect and exchange data. These devices are connected via wired or wireless networks, allowing for smooth communication between them and other internet-enabled devices and systems.
Kevin Ashton first proposed the concept of IoT in 1999, and since then, its applications have flourished and it has become one of the most influential technologies of the 21st century.
How is IoT Different from Smart Devices?
The Internet of Things (IoT) and smart devices are often used interchangeably, however, they are actually quite different. Smart devices are generally single-purpose devices that are capable of connecting to the internet and performing a specific task, such as a voice assistant or a smart lightbulb. In contrast, IoT is a much broader term that refers to a network of connected devices that can collect and exchange data.
The devices that make up an IoT network can be either single-purpose devices or multi-purpose devices, such as a smart fridge that can detect when food is running out, order groceries, and keep track of expiration dates. The data collected by these devices is then sent to an analytics platform, allowing businesses to gain insights into their operations and better understand customer behaviour.
In short, smart devices are single-purpose devices that can connect to the internet, while IoT is a network of connected devices that can collect and exchange data.
Using the IoT
IoT is used in a wide array of spaces, such as home automation and industrial operations. It is used to monitor, control and automate systems and processes, making them more reliable, secure and cost-effective.
For example, in home automation, IoT can be used to control lighting, thermostats and appliances. For many, it’s the perfect way of customising a home atmosphere or automating processes around the house to help with daily tasks.
In industrial operations, IoT can be used to monitor and control production lines, track inventory levels, and manage logistics. Additionally, IoT can be used to gather data on customer behaviour, such as buying patterns, to help businesses better understand their customers’ needs and preferences.
Common IoT Devices
The most common IoT devices include motion sensors, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, electricity meters, RFID tags, and actuators, but there is barely a limit to what could be turned into an IoT device.
For example, motion sensors can be used to detect the presence of people in a space, while temperature sensors can be used to monitor the temperature of a room. These can then be set to log data on a central dashboard, which is programmed to trigger another action if any specific parameters are met. Too many people in a room? Alert staff to make sure safety isn't compromised. Museum exhibition space experiencing too much humidity? Activate the ventilators.
With a bit of creativity and know-how, the IoT can offer a huge range of solutions for a large variety of problems.
Security Concerns
Implementing Internet of Things (IoT) technology enables businesses to become more efficient and cost-effective, but there are security concerns that must be addressed. IoT devices can be hacked and exploited, leaving businesses potentially vulnerable to cyber-attacks.
To reduce this risk, businesses should take the necessary steps to secure their IoT systems and put the right protocols in place to protect their data. This includes having robust security measures that can detect and respond to any potential threats, as well as protocols to detect suspicious activity.
Additionally, businesses should educate their staff on the risks associated with IoT and how to identify and respond to a security breach. By taking these steps, businesses can ensure their data is secure and their IoT systems are protected.
If you want to read more about how the IoT can be used in a business setting, check out our blog "Unlocking the Benefits of IoT Integrations in Commercial Environments".
What’s next for IoT?
The future of IoT is exciting – it’s estimated that by 2025, the number of IoT devices connected to the internet will exceed 75 billion. As the technology continues to evolve, businesses will be able to leverage it in new and innovative ways, from autonomous vehicles to smart cities. It’s certainly an exciting space to keep an eye on!
