If someone told you twenty years ago that they controlled all of the lights and temperature of their house with just a few buttons on their cell phone, you probably wouldn’t have believed them. In many ways, the future is here—partially thanks to the Internet of Things (IoT).
Even if you haven’t revolutionized your home to function from the convenience of your smartphone, you’ve likely interacted with the Internet of Things (IoT) or at least benefited from it. The produce you bought might’ve been grown using smart irrigation systems or the smartwatch you’re wearing—these are IoTs. Though you might not identify these innovations by name, IoTs are all around us. Optimizing industries from agriculture to manufacturing, IoTs bring a plethora of benefits to their users, ranging in complexity and usage. Today, we’re breaking down the Internet of Things, its uses, and benefits. Here’s our complete crash course on IoTs.
What Is the Internet of Things (IoT)?
IoT Internet of Things definition: IoT refers to a network of devices with sensors, processing abilities, software, and connectivity that allows them to connect with other devices and exchange data over the Internet. IoTs “talk” to each other without human interaction, improving efficiency and seamless communication.
How IoTs Work
These smart connections might seem like magic to the average user, but there’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes. IoT devices utilize sensors, gathering data based on their intended purpose. For example, a SMART thermostat would gather data on the temperature of its physical environment. When an IoT application is constructed, the IoT developer designs the software of both the actual firmware on the IoT and the backend system, which collects and processes the data. So, what is an IoT developer responsible for? Pretty much the entirety of the development that makes it function wirelessly for us to enjoy.
Next, the data is sent to the cloud via a connection such as WiFi, Bluetooth, or cellular. Once the cloud receives the data, it’s processed by software and presented to the user or functions to fulfill the purpose of the IoT device. Back to that SMART thermostat example—once the sensors gather temperature information, the sensors send this data to the cloud via WiFi, and once received, the software processes these numbers, automatically regulating the temperature in the room based on the user’s settings or alerting the user via text or notification if temps dropped too low or high.
IoT Applications
The Internet of Things has many applications and can be tailored to a diverse range of industries and uses. IoT applications offer innovative solutions to specific problems and are widely used in smart homes, wearable devices, healthcare, security, industrial, and agricultural industries. Here are some key IoT applications:
Example of Internet of Things
Smart home devices
What are smart devices? Smart devices are electronic devices connected to the internet or other networks that can create smart connections and operate autonomously to some degree. They’re typically monitored remotely or via a smart system. Smart devices are IoTs, so there’s IoT technology in smart devices. They utilize sensors or software that allow them to gather data and interact with other devices. It’s this IoT technology in smart devices that allows you to track your heart rate via your Apple watch or set a timer using Alexa. When you ask, “What are smart devices?” you might think of devices like the iPhone, and you’d be right. However, smart devices extend far beyond that. Here is an example of Internet of Things smart devices:
- Smartphones: IoT technology in smart devices sense information such as geographical location, biometrics like fingerprint and face recognition, and Bluetooth and wireless connectivity.
- Smart Thermostat: These devices track and adjust temperature based on user setting preferences, reducing energy and human interaction to adjust the thermostat.
- Smart Lock: Allow the user to lock and unlock their door via smart connections through a cellphone or device.
Wearable devices
- Smartwatch: Devices like the Apple Watch track activity, such as steps taken, heart rate, and blood oxygen levels, analyzing the data and reporting it to its user.
- Fitness Trackers: The Fitbit or Garmin watch similarly tracks steps, mileage, and heart rate to track for the user.
- Smart Rings: A ring with tracking abilities like heart rate, blood oxygen levels, etc. that the user can access through an application on their phone or device.
Healthcare devices
- Wearable health monitor: IoT applications that can collect and analyze health data such as heart rate, activity, blood oxygen rates, sleep quality, or body temperature.
- Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) Device: IoT devices monitor vital signals, reporting to the doctor in real time.
- ECG Monitor: A wearable electrocardiogram monitor measuring the electrical activity of the user’s heart, allowing for continuous monitoring.
IoT Security Solutions
- IoT Security Management Platforms: Continuously and autonomously monitor networks for cyber threats, viruses, and malfunctions to be reported in real-time, and take precautions based on user settings and programs in place.
- Threat Detection and Response: Monitor networks and detect threats or suspicious activity in real-time, enabling combatants and alerting users of specific threats detected.
- Software Updates: IoTs monitor devices in real-time, updating software as needed and staying up to date with the latest cybersecurity software and downloads.
IoTs Across Industries
The Internet of Things has transformed processes throughout industries, regardless of their specializations. By simplifying processes and collecting and analyzing data, every industry can benefit from IoTs in its own unique way.
Education Internet of Things
IoTs have many uses in education, from security measures that monitor real-time threats to smart classrooms that utilize IoT technology in smart devices. IoTs provide personalized learning experiences by analyzing data of their students. IoTs are also beneficial for remote learning, through video conferencing like Zoom and interactive learning tools.
Logistics Internet of Things
IoTs streamline processes, limit unnecessary data or duplicate information, supporting the coordination process of logistics. IoTs optimize efficiency and improve customer experiences by providing real-time tracking, inventory management, and enhanced customer experiences with smart notifications and delivery updates. The solutions IoTs provide streamline logistics and the industry as a whole.
Manufacturing Internet of Things
IoTs monitor performance, preventive maintenance, and predict failures, alerting users when errors occur. Monitoring supply chains in real time, measuring quality, and tracking inventory automates the manufacturing process and minimizes the possibility of human error.
Agricultural Internet of Things
The Internet of Things has been revolutionary for the agriculture industry. IoT devices such as soil and weather sensors collect data on soil moisture, temperature, and nutrient levels with precise numbers and data to present to the farmers, allowing them to effectively allocate resources. This technology has allowed precision for farmers, which was not possible before, to produce the highest quality crops without wasting resources.
Engineering Internet of Things
In the modern day, the engineering industry utilizes complex software, data management, and project technology to achieve innovative accomplishments. IoTs have benefited the industry with its seamless data management and scalability features. Engineers utilize IoT sensor abilities and data analysis. We’re in the midst of a technological revolution, where technology is constantly evolving. IoTs allow for these advancements with the convenience of being scalable for the future.
Pros and Cons of IoTs
Pros of IoTs
There are a plethora of benefits of IoT, and with those benefits come drawbacks. IoTs operate to fulfill specific functions or problems, so while the pros and cons of IoTs might differ depending on the range and scale you implement IoT applications into your life, these smart connections can simplify many processes in your daily operations, streamlining business and efficiency. While different IoTs provide unique benefits, here’s an overview of the major benefits of the Internet of Things:
Increased Efficiency
IoTs automate tasks that are otherwise manual and streamline processes. Now, instead of taking the time to transfer data from one system to another, IoTs share data in real time between servers without any human interaction. This streamlines the process, allowing an increase in productivity from your team by minimizing human interaction or error.
Cost Savings
Depending on the Internet of Things’ intended purpose, they can save you money in a multitude of ways. IoTs cut down on operational costs, saving time and money. Simple IoTs like light sensors save money by automatically turning off the lights when the room is empty. IoT device management services also perform preventive maintenance on their tech, extending their lifespan and reducing the possibility of random breakdowns, saving your organization from wasting precious time and money on preventable IT maintenance. By optimizing resources and reducing unnecessary usage, IoTs cut costs and are an environmentally friendly option.
IoT Security Solutions
From real-time security systems to data encryption solutions, IoT security solutions are a game changer when it comes to security. IoTs allow you to seamlessly store data on the cloud or easily store it off-site. Backing up devices and keeping your data secure prevents cyberattacks, data loss, or any other tech disaster.
Scalability and Flexibility
As a growing, changing organization, you need tech that reflects that. IoT applications are scalable and flexible, meaning you can add onto the network of devices as you expand. Scalability is key, although it’s essential you have a robust network or cloud-based solutions to support the Internet of Things functions, and prevent slowing down or security vulnerabilities.
Streamlined Communication
IoT device management allows your devices to talk to each other in real time, reducing duplicate documents, unnecessary storage, and the time spent searching for data or important information. This IoT device management allows for cohesive, coordinated data and information across your organization, streamlining communication and increasing productivity.
Enhanced User Experience
The Internet of Things minimizes human interaction, eliminating steps or tasks for the user for a more convenient experience. Utilizing voice assistants like Alexa allows the user the convenience of asking questions and setting timers hands-free. Smart connections also allow for remote-monitoring, conveniently allowing users to adjust settings or check security features from a remote location. IoTs have features to streamline business operations, allowing for a harmonious experience across multiple devices.
Cons of IoTs
Data Overload
IoTs gather and analyze vast amounts of data that can majorly benefit your business. However, storing this information takes up significant amounts of storage. Ensuring you have a plan for this data before implementing IoTs into your organization is key. Ensuring your data is organized prevents overloads and wasted downtime attempting to manage it all.
Security Risks
IoTs often track sensitive or private information. While this isn’t inherently an issue, if you don’t have the proper security measures in place to prevent cyber attacks, it can lead to data leaks and vulnerabilities in your IT infrastructure. Additionally, because IoTs connect smart devices, this provides more entrance points for hackers to gain access to a plethora of sensitive information. The key here is ensuring you have an arsenal of IoT security solutions in place with an equipped IT team to install the proper security measures and surveillance in case attackers attempt a cyber crime.
Maintenance Complexity
IoT device management can become complex and complicated to manage and maintain, especially if you’re handling it on your own, without the help of an IT expert. Ensuring that all devices are working securely and optimally is a challenge alone. Working with an expert takes the task off your and your team’s plate, knowing that an expert comprehends your IT scalability plan.
Up-Front Costs
While the Internet of Things is a more cost-effective long-term solution, costs can be hefty up-front. Unfortunately, this is a barrier for smaller businesses who don’t have notable amounts to spend on tech budgets. On the plus side, IoTs are flexible and scalable to be built upon. Investing in a few IoTs won’t be an issue as long as you set up data storage and an IT plan to manage scalability later on.
Compatibility
IoTs are built for a wide range of services, from different brands, and for diverse selections of industries. This makes them pretty much accessible to any person or organization, depending on the desired use. This also means there’s not a ton of standardization in IoT protocols and compatibility. When implementing the Internet of Things into your life or business, do your research. Learning what brands and products interact well with one another for current IoTs and any future IoTs you invest in will allow for more seamless integration and optimal effectiveness.
Connect Your IoT Devices with Exact IT
Connecting your devices is the ultimate game changer when it comes to streamlining processes and operations. Install your IoT devices right the first time to maximize their benefits and efficiency with the help of professionals. Exact IT Consulting is a premier managed IT services organization that helps businesses make strategic, long-term IT decisions to align technology with business objectives and improve operational efficiency. Contact Exact IT Consulting today to request a consultation.