What is the internet of things (IoT)?

Your apple watch. A smart printer. Even the temperature sensor in your office. These are some of the common physical devices that form part of the Internet of Things (IoT) network.

The Internet of Things refers collectively to the estimated 18 billion smart, internet-connected devices embedded with software or sensors that we use every day. As well as being used by individuals, IoT devices have become critical in workplaces, from sensor-based temperature and lighting, to smart desks and security systems.

Unfortunately, more internet-facing devices opens up more points of entry for cyber attacks. Businesses must implement IT security measures to combat these new-found vulnerabilities.

Read on to learn all you need to know about IoT and the best way to manage IoT devices in business.

How does IoT work?

IoT devices, from smart thermostats to fitness trackers, connect to each other and the internet through the Cloud.
They use sensors to collect data from their surroundings, measuring things like:

• Temperature
• Motion
• Light
• Pressure

This data is sent to the Cloud, where it’s processed and analysed in real time. For instance, if a temperature sensor detects a rise, it can trigger cooling systems immediately to prevent overheating. The cloud then allows these devices to communicate and work together without needing input from humans.

What are the key technologies used in IoT?

• Connectivity – Connectivity technologies enable communication between devices and the Cloud, such as:
  • Wi-Fi – Common in homes and offices for short to medium distances
  • Bluetooth – Used for short-range communication in devices like wearables
  • Zigbee – Low-power, used in home automation
  • Cellular (4G/5G) – For long-range communication like mobile
  • LoRaWAN – Long-range, low-power, used in smart cities
• Edge Processing – Data processing can happen at the edge, placing the physical device near the data source to increase speed
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) – AI helps IoT by analysing data and making smart decisions automatically e.g. predicting equipment failures before problems occur

Why is IoT important?

IoT is important because it automates everyday tasks, making life easier and businesses more efficient. As IoT devices don’t require human input, using them can save a lot of time and manual errors. Individuals and businesses may also make better decisions as IoT devices can collect accurate data in real-time to deliver precise results.

For example, a farm might use an IoT device to monitor soil. This can lead to increased crop yield, lower labour costs, and more efficient operations. IoT also drives innovation, helping cities run more smoothly and improving everyday life and healthcare.

What are the most common applications of IoT?

The use of IoT devices is becoming critical for multiple industries and applications.

Smart Homes

• Smart thermostats
• Security cameras
• Voice assistants like Alexa and Google Home

IoT devices in the home offer increased convenience, energy savings, and more effective security. Smart home devices allow users to control their homes remotely, automate daily tasks, and monitor their homes in real time.

Healthcare

• Wearable health monitors
• Remote patient monitoring systems

Commonly used in healthcare, IoT enables improved patient care through continuous health monitoring and timely medical interventions. It allows people to better manage their chronic diseases, reducing hospital visits and enhancing the delivery of healthcare.

Industrial IoT (IIoT)

• Predictive maintenance
• Automation

Used in manufacturing and industry, companies use IIoT to predict equipment failures and schedule maintenance, leading to less downtime and faster output.

Smart Cities

• Smart traffic lights
• Waste management systems
• Smart parking solutions

IoT in smart cities allows for improved urban planning, reduced traffic congestion, better waste management, and a better quality of life for city residents. IoT applications help city authorities manage resources more effectively and create safer, more efficient urban environments.
For example, Singapore uses IoT devices to remotely monitor elderly people’s health and within intelligent transportation systems that improve the flow of traffic.

Security and privacy concerns of IoT

The rise of IoT devices brings growing security threats and vulnerabilities. In fact, malware attacks on IoT devices increased 77% in the start of 2022 alone. Here’s what to be aware of and how to stay protected.

Cybersecurity 

IoT devices can be vulnerable to hacking, data breaches, and unauthorised access. Due to the vast amounts of data they generate, attackers may exploit devices if not properly secured.
Here’s what to do if you want to protect your IoT devices:

• Implement strong encryption
• Run regular software updates
• Set up multi-factor authentication methods
• Conduct regular security audits from an IT services company
• And use network segmentation to limit access to sensitive data

Data management

The sheer volume of data produced by IoT devices can be overwhelming. Data protection measures are vital in businesses to ensure you protect sensitive information, such as personal client data or financial details.
Cloud computing systems can help you store and process data at scale. Implement data management platforms and analytics tools to efficiently handle and derive insights from the data. Edge computing can also help by processing data closer to where it is generated.

Regulatory and compliance

Regulations around data privacy, security, and IoT device standards vary by region and industry. Compliance with these regulations is critical to avoid legal issues and maintain consumer trust.

Stay informed about relevant regulations, like GDPR. Develop clear data governance policies, ensure transparent data usage practices, and regularly train employees on compliance requirements.

Managing IoT devices in business

If you use IoT devices in the workplace, what do you need to consider?

Integrating IoT devices

Let’s say you are a retailer or manufacturer wanting to introduce a smart inventory system to track and improve stock turnover. To effectively integrate the system, you may need to:

1. Take inventory of all stock
2. Attach smart tags or install IoT sensors
3. Ensure system compatibility with your existing tech stack, apps and database
4. Train staff members on the new system

Monitoring and maintenance

Effective monitoring of IoT devices may include:

• Regularly updating firmware
• Implementing automated monitoring
• Scheduling routine maintenance checks

You may do this through centralised IoT management platforms, predictive maintenance tools, or network monitoring systems.

What is the future outlook of IoT?

IoT is set to continue to grow with the adoption of 5G, edge computing, and AI integration. It is likely the use of IoT will increase in business, particularly in industries like healthcare, where IoT is predicted to be worth $289 billion by 2028.

Businesses must embrace these advancements if they want to improve efficiency, access new opportunities, and stay competitive. Consumers will expect faster, more connected and more convenient products, and security will be a growing concern.

Staying informed about technological developments and regulatory changes, and investing in IoT training and security, will be crucial for businesses and consumers alike.

Get started and outsource IT to manage and protect IoT devices

To effectively manage and protect IoT devices, consider outsourcing help. Professional IT services provide continuous monitoring and timely updates, allowing businesses to focus on growth and innovation.

If you want additional help in ensuring your IoT devices remain secure, managed IT services can help you protect IoT devices. Get in touch with our team to hear how we could help.