What is the Internet of Things?
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the interconnectedness of physical devices that are equipped with internet connectivity, sensors, and other hardware that enable communication and control via the web.
"Smart" devices are those that are connected to the internet and can communicate with other devices and people.
Internet-enabled thermostats, doorbells, smoke detectors and security alarms create a hub where data is shared between physical devices and users can remotely control the "things" in that hub (i.e., adjusting temperature settings, unlocking doors, etc.) via a mobile app or website.
From smart blackboards in school classrooms to medical devices that can detect signs of Parkinson's disease, the IoT is rapidly making the world smarter by connecting the physical and the digital.
In short, IoT works like that:
- Devices have hardware components, such as sensors, that collect data.
- The data collected by the sensors is then transmitted to the cloud and integrated with software.
- The software then analyzes and transmits the data to users via an app or website.
IoT devices
The internet-of-things refers to the interconnectedness of physical objects and devices that are embedded with sensors, software and other technologies for the purpose of collecting and sharing data. The Internet-of-Things refers to the network of physical devices, vehicles, home appliances and other items embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and connectivity which enables these objects to connect and exchange data.
IoT platforms provide the support software necessary to connect various devices and systems in an IoT network.
