To answer the question of what makes an IoT network different from a normal network, we need to start by defining what makes the Internet of Things unique.
What is the Internet of Things?
The IoT is a collection of devices that can connect through the internet, the cloud and other devices to share and analyze collected data. The goal is to help people and organizations gain a better understanding of where systems and processes can be improved. Benefits include: increased efficiency, financial savings or environmental compliance. Meanwhile, billions of devices are already connected to the Internet of Things.
The first thing that differentiates IoT hardware from typical network devices (such as phones, tablets, and computers) is that they evolved from tools that previously wouldn’t have been designed or would be incapable of communicating. They are made with a specific goal in mind, making them work out this goal as efficiently as possible. The IoT hardware uses connectivity networks to communicate with the cloud.
What makes the networks different?
- Scale: IoT networks have the potential to support many more devices than traditional networks. While traditional networks typically focus on connecting computers, servers and smartphones, IoT networks can connect billions of devices, ranging from smart thermostats and security cameras to industrial sensors and self-driving cars.
- Device diversity: Traditional networks are usually designed to support specific types of devices using standardized protocols. However, in IoT networks, devices can vary greatly in terms of their capabilities, communication protocols and energy efficiency. IoT networks must be flexible to support and integrate different types of devices.
- Communication protocols: IoT networks use different communication protocols to allow devices to communicate with each other and with the internet. Traditional networks often use TCP/IP protocols, while IoT networks can use different protocols, such as MQTT, CoAP, Modbus, M-Bus and BACNET, depending on the specific needs of the IoT application area.
- Energy efficiency: Many IoT devices run on batteries or have limited energy resources. Therefore, IoT networks must be energy efficient to extend battery life and ensure that devices can function for extended periods of time without frequent recharging or battery replacement. Examples of energy efficient networks are NB-IOT and LTE M.
- Data flows and analytics: IoT networks generate massive amounts of data from various sources. This data can be structured or unstructured and can vary in frequency and volume. The management and analysis of this data is a major challenge in IoT networks, where advanced analytics techniques are used to gain valuable insights and support decision making.
- Security and privacy: IoT networks bring new security and privacy challenges. With a large number of connected devices and data streams, it is important to implement robust security measures to protect devices, data and communications from malicious attacks and unauthorized access.
For more information about Internet of Things networks, you can contact us via telephone number 085-0443500 or by e-mail to info@thingsdata.com.