Because of the integration of data analytics capabilities and internet connectivity with vehicles, consumer goods, sensors, industrial and utility components, and other objects that promise to alter how we work, live, and play, the phrase “Internet of Things” (IoT) has become a household term over the past several years. This is due to the fact that these objects have become increasingly connected to the internet.
As a direct consequence of this, numerous Internet of Things-based goods and services have recently begun to be made available by companies. For instance, several acquisitions related to the internet of things have made headlines recently. These acquisitions include the well-known purchase of Hiber by Astrocast, the purchase of Jasper Technologies by Cisco, the purchase of Solair by Microsoft, and the purchase of SmartThings by Samsung. But what exactly is the IoT?
The term “Internet of Things” is used to describe scenarios in which computing power and network connectivity are extended to sensors, objects, and everyday household items that are not typically thought of as computers. In other words, the Internet of Things refers to a scenario in which “things” are computers.
Because of the Internet of Things technology, these devices are now able to generate, exchange, and consume data with minimal to no involvement from a human. On the other hand, there isn’t a single definition that covers everything.
Wearable technology is the most prominent example of Internet of Things technology’s ability to connect individuals to the Internet of Things directly through their bodies. These devices can be worn on their faces, such as smart glasses and virtual reality (VR) headsets, or on their wrists, such as fitness trackers or smartwatches, thereby transforming the manner in which healthcare services are provided to patients.
In a similar vein, consumers are gravitating toward the idea of the “smart home,” which offers increased safety and improved energy efficiency. This is made possible by newly developed Internet of Things (IoT) products, such as internet-enabled appliances, home automation components, and energy management devices.
Some advocates believe that the Internet of Things has the potential to add value to businesses and the economy on a global scale that is measured in billions of dollars. They consider it a revolutionary, “smart,” networked world full of opportunities, advancements, and efficiencies. Others are concerned that the Internet of Things will usher in a more sinister era marked by customer lock-in, spying, and security breaches.
The debate over whether the Internet of Things will be a boon or a bane, along with the constant flow of information from marketing and the media, can make it difficult to understand. In this article, we will talk about the various applications of the Internet of Things (IoT), why the IoT is so important, how the Internet of Things is changing the world, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of the IoT.
IoT: A Brief History
When a group of students from Carnegie Mellon University decided to modify a Coca-Cola vending machine to enable remote monitoring of its contents, they unknowingly gave birth to the idea of embedding intelligence and sensors into physical objects. Despite this, advancement was sluggish, and the technology was difficult to use.
Then, in 1989, when Tim Berners-Lee first introduced the world to the internet, the practice of connecting “things” on the web became widespread. The following is a condensed version of the history of the Internet of Things (IoT), which explains several technological advancements that occurred after the birth of the internet.
1990
John Romkey is credited with developing the first internet device, a toaster that could be controlled over the internet and turned on and off.
WearCam was initially developed by Steve Mann in 1994 and was capable of almost real-time performance on a 64-processor system. In addition, Amsterdam was the first city to develop a smart city with the help of its own virtual digital city known as De Digitale Stad.
1997
The first clear and concise explanation of sensors and the role they will play in the future was offered by Paul Saffo.
1998
Mark Weiser, known as the “father of ubiquitous computing,” constructed a fountain outside of the office where he worked. The flow and height of the water were a real-time reflection of the volume and price patterns that were taking place in the stock market.
1999
Kevin Ashton, executive director of AutoIDCentre, is credited with being the first person to use the term “Internet of Things” in 1999. Additionally, in the same year, they developed a worldwide item identification system that is based on RFID technology. A technique called radio frequency identification (RFID) transmits data via radio frequencies.
2000
Electronics giant LG has revealed its intentions to launch a smart refrigerator that can determine whether or not the food items it stores require additional replenishment as a significant step toward the commercialization of the Internet of Things (IoT).
2003
The Savi program run by the United States Army made extensive use of RFID. That same year, Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, increased the use of RFID technology in all of its stores across the globe.
2005
The first smart home device that could inform its user about the weather, movements in the stock market, and other topics was released, and it was called the Nabaztag. It was designed to be similar to Amazon’s Alexa.
2008
In 2008, the Internet Protocol for Smart Objects Alliance was established with the intention of developing frameworks that would make deployment more accessible in order to encourage the use of the internet of things.
In the same year, the Federal Communications Commission also approved the use of the “white space spectrum,” which refers to the empty area between the different frequencies used for television.
2011
IPv6, the next version of the protocol that determines where things are located on the internet, has been released.
2013
The first group of 90 cities, districts, and towns that will participate in China’s pilot program for smart cities has been announced. The Mayor of London also established the Smart London Board in order to direct the city of London’s policy regarding digital technology.
2018
Azure Sphere and Azure Digital TwinsIoT are two new services that Microsoft has introduced. Azure Sphere is the name of Microsoft’s end-to-end solution that provides a high level of security for networked microcontroller-powered devices. The Azure Digital Twins service is an essential tool for scaling analytics and other components of Internet of Things solutions across thousands of devices. It makes it possible to create digital clones of physical assets, which can then be used in various ways.
2020–Present
The number of people searching Google for the term “Internet of Things” unexpectedly dropped by about 15% in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic was occurring. However, in 2020, active Internet of Things connections (such as connected smart home appliances) surpassed non-IoT connections (such as laptops, smartphones, and other electronic devices). This caused the market for the Internet of Things (IoT) to expand.
One of the applications that saw significant expansion throughout the epidemic was telehealth, in which a physician treats a patient through video conferencing. In addition, the Internet of Things Cybersecurity Improvement Act was passed into law in the United States in December of 2020.
In a press release issued in January of 2021, the Chinese government disclosed their intention to construct thirty 5G factories that are all fully connected over the course of the next three years.
In February 2021, the German automotive supplier Bosch presented its AIoT strategy, and in October 2021, Facebook changed its name to Meta to focus on the metaverse concept. Both of these events occurred in the same year.
In 2022, 5G networks presented new opportunities for manufacturers, one of which was the acceleration of IoT adoption. This was accomplished by faster data transfer rates as well as more effective communication and connections among devices.
In addition, the combination of the Internet of Things and blockchain technology has hastened the implementation of enterprise-level supply chain management solutions such as VeChain and peer-to-peer networking services such as the Helium Network.
How does the Internet of Things (IoT) work?
The Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem includes web-enabled smart devices such as smartphones, tablets, and the like. Connecting to an Internet of Things gateway or an edge device allows these devices to collect, send, and take action based on the data they get from their surroundings. These devices’ embedded systems include sensors, processors, and communication gear.
IoT devices and sensors are connected to the cloud through a centralized hub that is known as an IoT gateway. The sensors are able to establish a connection with the cloud via a wide variety of communication and delivery protocols, such as satellite networks, WiFi, Bluetooth, and wide-area networks, amongst others.
Every medium has inherent constraints and compromises, such as lower bandwidth, shorter range, and higher power consumption.
Modern IoT gateways frequently make it possible to synchronize data in both directions between the cloud and the devices that make up the Internet of Things (also known as bidirectional data transmission).
Consequently, data collected by Internet of Things sensors can be uploaded to the cloud for processing, and cloud-based applications can issue commands to Internet of Things devices.
After the data has been gathered and uploaded to the cloud, the software will then process the information it has obtained. The tasks can be as simple as reading the temperature reading on appliances like boilers or as complex as using computer vision to transform 2D images into 3D models. For example, computer vision can be used to read the temperature reading on boilers.
With the help of artificial intelligence (AI), computer vision gives computers the ability to glean useful information from visual inputs such as still images and moving videos. After that comes the phase where automated processes are carried out utilizing the findings obtained from computer vision. Even though people can configure the devices, provide them with instructions, or retrieve data, Internet of Things devices handle the majority of the work without any assistance from people.
After that, the information is made accessible to the user by sending alerts to their mobile devices in the form of phone notifications, text messages, or email messages. The user may also be able to take action, such as adjusting the boiler’s temperature in the event it is either too hot or too cold.
In some circumstances, certain actions are carried out on their own without human intervention. For instance, the entire IoT system might be able to modify the settings automatically by concocting and putting into practice a handful of predetermined rules in which no involvement from a human is necessary.
Technologies that enable Internet of Things
Users are able to bring real-world objects into the realm of the digital world by utilizing a variety of technologies, including near field communication (NFC), radio frequency identification (RFID), and virtual and augmented reality (AR). These technologies allow physical objects to be identified in an interactive manner and referred to via the internet. Following is a discussion on several different technologies that enable Internet of Things.
Radiofrequency identification
Radiofrequency identification is a method that employs radio waves to enable the transmission of a serial number that can be used to identify a person or an object in a completely wireless manner. The primary elements of an RFID system are known as tags, antennas, readers, software, access controllers, and servers. RFID technology is central to the Internet of Things because of its ability to solve problems with object identification practically and cost-effectively.
Near-field communication (NFC)
NFC, or near-field communication, is a group of wireless technologies that have a short range and consist of communication protocols for electronic devices, most commonly smartphones. A connection can typically be established at a distance of four centimeters or less, making it possible to connect two different Internet of Things devices using a straightforward tap-and-go method while simultaneously preventing hackers from gaining unauthorized access.
Internet protocol
Internet protocols are a set of guidelines that regulate how users can communicate with one another and share information over the internet. IPv6, the internet protocol of the 21st century, provides a multicast communication function that is both highly effective and eliminates the need for routine broadcast messaging. This enhancement helps Internet of Things devices preserve their battery life by cutting down on the number of packets that need to be processed.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a short-range radio technology that has an effective range of 10–100 meters. This technology eliminates the requirement for a proprietary cable to be connected between devices such as laptops, printers, and cameras. Because of this, the Internet of Things (IoT), which is driven by Bluetooth, has the potential to make a significant difference for businesses that want to reduce their reliance on human labor and increase their overall productivity.
In addition, Bluetooth Low Energy, a version of Bluetooth designed specifically for low-powered devices, can assist in the energy conservation efforts of Internet of Things devices by placing them in a dormant state until they are connected.
Wireless Fidelity (WiFi)
WiFi is a networking technology that enables wireless communication between computers and other devices, thereby maximizing the potential of applications and devices that are connected to the internet of things.
Wireless sensor network (WSN)
The Internet of Things (IoT) is brought to life by the use of wireless sensors as its underlying infrastructure. A wireless sensor network (WSN) is made up of dispersed sensors that monitor different physical and environmental factors, such as sound, motion, and so on. For example, sensors that are attached to a patient’s body monitor how the patient reacts to medication so that medical professionals can determine the effects of the medication.
Artificial intelligence (AI)
IoT systems generate massive amounts of data, and as a result, AI and machine learning technologies are utilized for data analysis in order to derive insights that can be put into practice. For example, artificial intelligence could examine the data generated by manufacturing equipment and determine whether or not it needs to be maintained, thereby reducing both operational costs and downtime.
Cloud and quantum computing
The term “cloud” refers to a remotely located server that provides users with access to various computing resources. Cloud computing makes it possible to transport the enormous data packages generated by the Internet of Things (IoT) across the internet.
In addition, cloud computing is used to store IoT data in a manner that is both cost-effective and enables real-time control and monitoring of the data. This makes the use of IoT much more convenient.
Quantum computing provides an exceptionally high speed because of the enormous volume of data that is produced by Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This volume of data necessitates intensive calculation and other complicated optimization.
It safeguards Internet of Things devices by utilizing quantum cryptography as a defence mechanism against intrusions and threats such as malware and data breaches. Quantum cryptography employs concepts from quantum mechanics for data encryption and transfer, with the goal of preventing data from falling into the hands of hackers.
Blockchain
There is currently no way to check if the data from IoT devices has been tampered with before they are sold or shared with others. Because anyone can verify the authenticity of data on blockchain explorers, implementing blockchain technology in IoT helps break down data silos and fosters a culture of trust. In addition, it can monitor the data gathered by sensors and prevent fraudsters from duplicating it with other potentially damaging data.
Virtual and augmented reality
Virtual reality (VR) provides users of the Internet of Things with a remarkable and immersive experience through a simulated environment. Users are able to adjust the view angles of the simulation at any time that is convenient for them.
In a similar vein, the Internet of Things (IoT) is a collection of networks that link physical things to the cloud, whereas augmented reality (AR) is more of a technology that facilitates interaction.
They collaborate to create a structure for the collection of data for analysis and the execution of any necessary actions. Order pickers, for instance, can use AR eyewear to quickly access the barcodes of the items they need to ship in order to fulfill their orders.
Digital twins
A digital twin is an interactive virtual representation of a real-world system, asset, or environment that looks exactly like its physical counterpart and performs the same functions as its physical counterpart does. One can visualize how the system will interact with objects, people, and environments with the assistance of digital twins. This is accomplished by combining data from a variety of Internet of Things devices with data from other sources.
Additionally, it helps test systems before they are used, which saves both time and money to a significant degree.
IoT communication models
In a guide to Internet of Things networking published by the Internet Architecture Board (IAB) in March 2015, the four most popular communication models used by Internet of Things devices were listed as device-to-device, device-to-cloud, device-to-gateway, and back-end data-sharing. The Internet Architecture Board monitors and directs the development of the internet’s underlying infrastructure.
Device-to-device model
The device-to-device communication paradigm depicts two or more devices that connect and communicate with one another directly, in contrast to the use of an intermediary application server.
These devices communicate with one another through the use of a variety of networks, such as IP networks and the internet; however, these gadgets frequently set up direct connections between themselves through the use of protocols such as Bluetooth.
Device-to-cloud model
An internet cloud service, such as an application service provider, can be connected directly to an Internet of Things device through a device-to-cloud communication model in order to facilitate the exchange of data and the management of message flow. This method typically involves the utilization of communication channels that are already in operation, such as WiFi connections, in order to connect the device to the IP network, which then connects to the cloud service.
Device-to-gateway model
Application software is executed on a local gateway device, such as a smartphone, in the device-to-gateway model. This device acts as an intermediary between the device and the cloud service, providing security as well as other features such as data translation.
This model is used for consumer electronics such as fitness trackers. This model typically relies on a smartphone app to act as an intermediary gateway in order to link the fitness device to the cloud. This is necessary due to the fact that fitness trackers do not have the inherent capability to connect directly to a cloud service.
Back-end data-sharing model
The back-end data-sharing model gives users the ability to export data from external sources and combine it with data on smart objects obtained from a cloud service so that the data can be analyzed. A back-end sharing architecture makes it possible to aggregate and analyze the data that was gathered from a single data stream produced by an Internet of Things device.
Layers of IoT
As will be demonstrated in the following sections, an Internet of Things architecture can have anywhere from three to five layers, or even be service-oriented.
Three layer architecture
The architecture is composed of three layers: the perception layer, the network layer, and the application layer. In order for the Internet of Things (IoT) system to be able to identify each individual object, the perception layer must be equipped with cameras, sensors, and RFID tags. This is accomplished by collecting information regarding each individual item.
The data that was gathered by the perception layer is sent out through the system by the network layer. It incorporates the management and information centres, in addition to the information centres themselves, as well as the software and hardware instrumentation of the internet network.
The application layer’s purpose is to bring together the technical aspects of the industrial Internet of Things with the needs of society.
Five layer architecture
The business, the application, the processing, the transport, and the perception layers make up the five-layer architecture of the Internet of Things. The management of applications related to the Internet of Things is the focus of the business layer.
Additionally, it protects users’ privacy and conducts any research associated with IoT applications. The application layer will decide the categories of software applications that can be used with the Internet of Things. In addition to this, it boosts the authenticity, intelligence, and security of Internet of Things applications.
The information that was gathered by the perception layer is given to the processing layer to be processed. The storing and analyzing steps of the process are the two most important steps in the handling procedure.
Cloud computing, database management systems, ubiquitous computing, and intelligent processing are just a few of the information processing and storage strategies that are implemented in this layer.
The information that is sent from the perception layer to the processing layer and vice versa is transferred and received by the transport layer. This is accomplished with the help of technologies such as WiFi, infrared, and Bluetooth.
The perception layer is responsible for collecting data regarding each component of the system, determining the physical meaning of each component of the Internet of Things system (such as location and temperature), and converting this data into signals.
Service-oriented architecture
The sensing layer, the network layer, the service layer, and the interfaces layer make up the service-oriented architecture. The sensing layer is integrated with the hardware so that it can sense the status of the things.
The network layer is responsible for providing the infrastructure necessary to support either wired or wireless communication. The development and management of services that are required by users or applications is the responsibility of the service layer, while the interfaces layer contains the methods by which users or applications interact with the system.
Benefits of IoT
The Internet of Things provides many benefits, one of which is the promotion of device connectivity. This keeps physical equipment connected, which in turn results in less inefficiency and more transparency regarding quality.
Additionally, there is a significant amount of automation and control in operation as a result of tangible objects becoming connected digitally and centrally via wireless infrastructure. Machines are able to communicate with one another even in the absence of human intervention, resulting in an output that is both more rapid and on schedule.
Because communication between machines is more effective, it is possible to achieve precise results in a shorter amount of time, freeing people to focus on other creative endeavours rather than performing the same routine tasks daily.
However, the improved quality of life brought about by IoT networks is beneficial not just to humans but to all living things. Congestion in highly populated areas could be alleviated, for instance, with the help of internet-connected traffic lights and sensors. This would be beneficial to entire communities.
The engineering behind the Internet of Things enables devices to interact with one another, which results in tremendous benefits. Imagine how much better a heart patient’s overall health would be if their heart rate monitor could be connected to their phone (via a smartwatch), so that their healthcare provider could receive this information.
The vast majority of tangible things deteriorate soon after being acquired, whereas an Internet of Things (IoT) product might improve over time. Because the devices are connected to the internet, for instance, the companies that make IoT devices can update the software just as easily as companies that make personal computers can update an operating system.
The Internet of Things would make it possible for public policy to be implemented with greater speed and accuracy. This would benefit citizens’ safety. For instance, it has been demonstrated that mandating the installation of smoke detectors can reduce the number of deaths that are caused by fires.
In addition, it is anticipated that the Internet of Things will contribute to the preservation of the environment; for instance, an IoT-enabled public energy system called SmartGrid assists in measuring, monitoring, and controlling energy use.
Challenges of IoT
IoT devices have a number of significant drawbacks, two of the most significant being security and privacy concerns. For instance, the volume of data produced by Internet of Things devices presents challenges for data management, data preservation, and data oversight. The introduction of a large number of new hubs to the web and systems provides cybercriminals with an entry point into the network, which can result in data breaches and phishing attacks.
Due to the fact that many IoT devices operate in a passive manner, it may be difficult for individuals to discover that their personal information is being gathered due to the fact that many of these devices are connected to the internet. In addition, Internet of Things devices typically does not come equipped with screens or other user interfaces, making it difficult to provide information regarding privacy policies.
In addition, it is possible that a company will not be able to exercise full control over the devices that make up the IoT. For example, because most third-party telecommunications providers offer 5G communication technologies, businesses frequently have little to no control over the various privacy and security risks they face.
Inconsistent data formats can hinder data portability, making it difficult to switch suppliers while maintaining existing data when data is stored in vendor silos incompatible with one another. This occurs when data pertaining to consumers or organizations is housed in vendor silos.
The fact that many Internet of Things devices do not have the capability to communicate with one another or do not have centralized management in the absence of specific IoT standards presents a challenge for organizations.
This indicates that similar devices may need to be managed separately and that managing devices from various manufacturers frequently requires the use of multiple interfaces, which can lead to difficulties with both privacy and security. Managing devices from multiple manufacturers can be difficult because it requires multiple interfaces.
The potential of the Internet of Things in the future
There are still significant obstacles to overcome, both from a technological and a commercial point of view, despite the fact that the Internet of Things’s future looks promising and expectations are growing.
For instance, fundamental managerial issues are likely to emerge when agile software cultures clash with rigorous hardware cultures within firms and in the early stages of product creation. This can happen at any point in the product creation process. This suggests that organizations may need to adjust or redefine their existing business models in order to account for this new information.
From a technological point of view, ensuring the privacy and security of IoT devices is still a significant challenge that needs to be addressed. These issues serve as a source of motivation for future research, and other concerns include the effects of IoT-based innovation on the IT infrastructures and strategies of corporate organizations.
