The Internet of Things (IoT), also known as the Internet of Everything, is gradually becoming an indispensable part of modern life. With the rapid advancement of technology, smart devices are increasingly penetrating every corner of our lives, from households to businesses. To explore IoT in detail, let’s join The Tech-conomix Hub in the following article.
1. What is IoT?
The Internet of Things (IoT), or the Internet of Everything, is a network of devices connected to the internet to transmit data to one another and to the cloud without the need for direct human-to-human or human-to-computer interaction. These devices include everything from everyday household items to complex industrial tools.
When connected to the internet, these objects become smarter, capable of sending, receiving information, and performing automated actions based on collected data. IoT devices can include objects equipped with sensors to gather information about their surroundings, computers and controllers to receive and process data, and then automatically interact with other devices. Additionally, IoT can consist of objects that integrate both of these functions.
2. IoT System Structure
An IoT system typically consists of four main components: devices (things), gateways, network infrastructure (network and cloud), and data analysis and processing units (services – creation and solution layers).
Devices play a crucial role in this system, often being sensors such as temperature, pressure, or light sensors. These devices are responsible for detecting signals and converting them into data within the Internet environment.
The data is then processed and used to make changes according to the user’s requirements. These signals are usually integrated through applications on mobile phones or computers.
3. Advantages and Disadvantages of IoT
a. Advantages:
- Access to information anytime, anywhere, on any device.
- Improved communication between electronic devices when they are connected.
- Transferring data via the internet saves both cost and time.
- Automation of tasks enhances the quality of business services.
b. Disadvantages:
- The process of data exchange between devices is at risk of attacks and theft.
- The large number of IoT devices can create difficulties in collecting and managing data.
- If a system error occurs, all connected devices will encounter issues.
- There is no international standard for IoT compatibility, posing challenges for communication between devices produced by different manufacturers.
4. IoT Technologies
Below are the technologies used in IoT systems:
- Edge computing: This technology enables smart devices to perform more tasks beyond just sending and receiving data. It enhances computational capacity at the edge and reduces latency in communication between devices.
- Cloud computing: This technology is used to store data on remote virtual servers and manage devices in the IoT network, allowing devices to easily access data.
- Machine learning: This involves using algorithms to process input data, enabling computers to make quick, real-time decisions. These algorithms can be deployed either on the cloud or at the edge.