The Internet of Things - What Is It?
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a catch phrase that often gets used to describe the growing trend of connecting everyday objects to the Internet. Simply put, the IoT is the idea of taking things that aren’t traditionally connected to the internet, and adding a means of communication and data collection through which they can interact with the web.
The examples of these objects mainly stem from the consumer market. The Amazon Echo, for instance, is an excellent example of the IoT at work. The Echo is a home speaker that is connected to the internet, and can respond to voice commands given to it by the user. Beyond things like the Echo, the IoT can also be seen in connected fitness bands, doorbells, thermostats and even toasters.
Not all IoTs are consumer-based, though. An increasingly popular commercial application of the IoT is in the field of smart farming. Smart farming uses a network of sensors, tracking systems and monitoring equipment to improve and optimize crop yields, leading to improved efficiency and reduced costs in agriculture.
The potential of the Internet of Things is vast. Researchers estimate that the number of connected things will grow to over 20 billion devices by 2020. With all these connections, new opportunities are arising in nearly every industry. From healthcare to transportation to home automation, the IoT is poised to change the way that we interact in our modern world.
The technology powering the IoT is also rapidly evolving. Innovative protocols such as Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee, and Thread are helping many consumer and commercial devices achieve internet connectivity. Also, advancements in cloud computing, data storage, and network architecture are making it easier than ever to develop and deploy applications for the IoT.
At the same time, however, those same advances are also allowing for greater security risks. Connecting physical objects to the internet can increase their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. To ensure the IoT remains safe and secure for users, companies need to take extra precautions to safeguard against potential data breaches and malicious actors.
Whatever the future holds for the IoT, one thing is certain: it is here to stay. Nearly every field of industry could benefit from connectivity, and rapid advances in technology are making the usage of the IoT easier and more appealing. Within a few years, the Internet of Things may become the norm in a large number of markets.
