Internet of Things

Internet of Things or IoT refers to a whole network of physical devices around the world that are connected over the internet, capable of collecting and sharing data. These devices are usually called smart devices, as they can process data and use artificial intelligence to perform predetermined functions. 

IoT devices are constantly recording and saving user data and performance data. This data can be used to detect patterns, issues and possible problems, and make recommendations in advance. With increased insight provided by advanced analytical algorithms, comes the power to make the product experience better and increase process efficiency.

An IoT ecosystem consists of web-enabled smart devices that use embedded systems, such as processors, sensors and communication hardware, to collect, send and act on data they acquire from their environments. IoT devices share the sensor data they collect by connecting to an IoT gateway or other edge device where data is either sent to the cloud to be analyzed or analyzed locally. Sometimes, these devices communicate with other related devices and act on the information they get from one another. The devices do most of the work without human intervention, although people can interact with the devices for instance, to set them up, give them instructions or access the data.

IoT devices are a part of the larger concept of home automation, which can include lighting, heating and air conditioning, media and security systems and camera systems. Long-term benefits could include energy savings by automatically ensuring lights and electronics are turned off or by making the residents in the home aware of usage. Connecting up all these different objects and adding sensors to them adds a level of digital intelligence to devices that would be otherwise dumb, enabling them to communicate real-time data without involving a human being. The Internet of Things is making the fabric of the world around us more smarter and more responsive, merging the digital and physical universes.