What is IoT (Internet of Things)?

At a glance

• Network of interconnected devices that capture and process data through sensors and software.
• Revolutionizes diverse industries such as Industry 4.0, smart home, logistics, healthcare, agriculture.
• Based on technologies such as sensors, cloud computing, big data analytics and edge computing.
• Foundation for predictive maintenance, smart logistics and autonomous systems.

Internet of Things definition

IoT is the abbreviation for Internet of Things and describes the growing network of physical objects that are connected to one another and to the internet through sensors, software and other technologies. These “smart” devices, from everyday household items such as thermostats and lamps to complex industrial facilities, continuously collect data about their environment or their own condition. This data is analyzed and shared with other devices or central systems in order to optimize processes, make automatic decisions or provide users with valuable insights.

Thanks to the rapid advances in telecommunications and the development of low-cost computer chips, billions of such devices are now connected worldwide. IoT not only enables the automation and remote control of devices but also makes it possible to use resources more efficiently and gain new, data-based insights. This technology has the potential to fundamentally change the way we live and work by enabling seamless interactions between the physical and digital worlds.

In short, explained simply: The Internet of Things (IoT) connects everyday devices and machines to the internet so that they can collect and share data and respond automatically to their environment, making our lives more efficient and more connected.

What technologies do you need for IoT?

The Internet of Things is based on a variety of technologies that work together to intelligently connect devices, machines and systems, to collect, transmit and process data and to turn it into meaningful actions. The most important technologies that make IoT possible are:

• Sensors and actuators: Sensors capture environmental data such as temperature, light or pressure. Actuators turn this data into physical actions, for example by opening a valve or switching on a motor.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and mobile networks are common technologies that establish connections between devices and the cloud. They ensure communication between devices and enable the real-time transmission of data.
• Cloud Computing: The enormous amount of data generated by IoT devices is usually stored and processed in the cloud, as it provides the necessary infrastructure to develop, operate and scale IoT applications.
• Big Data Analytics: Analyzing the vast amounts of data that IoT devices generate is crucial for gaining valuable insights. Big data tools such as machine learning and predictive analytics help to identify patterns and make well-founded decisions.
• Security and data protection technologies: Technologies such as encryption, access controls and intrusion detection systems protect IoT devices and the data they generate from cyberattacks and ensure data protection.

How does the Internet of Things work?

A typical example of an IoT device is a smart home thermostat that measures the temperature, sends the data to the cloud, analyzes it there and adjusts the heating based on the results. IoT thus follows this process:

• Data collection: First, sensors in the IoT devices capture various data such as temperature, motion or light.
• Data transmission: The captured data is then transmitted in real time via networks such as Wi-Fi, mobile networks or specialized IoT networks to a central location, often a cloud platform.
• Data processing: At this point, the data is stored and processed, frequently using big data technologies and artificial intelligence (AI), to recognize patterns or automate decisions. In some cases, the data processing takes place directly on or near the device. This is referred to as edge computing and serves to shorten response times and reduce the amount of data transmitted.
• Response and action: After processing, automated actions can be triggered, such as controlling other devices or sending notifications to the user. Via mobile apps, web interfaces or special dashboards, users can view the data and configure settings on the devices.

What are the benefits of the Internet of Things?

The Internet of Things offers companies numerous benefits, which is why it has become a key technology of the modern economy and continues to gain relevance.

Where is IoT used? – Examples of IoT in practice

IoT is used in numerous industries where connected devices and sensors continuously capture data and thus optimize processes. The following examples show typical fields of application in companies.

Summary

The Internet of Things connects the physical and digital worlds: billions of connected devices continuously capture data that is analyzed in real time, processed automatically and turned into decisions. IoT revolutionizes industry, logistics, healthcare and everyday life – and creates the data foundation for a new generation of data-driven corporate management. Bissantz integrates IoT data into DeltaMaster and makes it relevant for management: from predictive maintenance through energy optimization to smart logistics – transparent, up to date and prepared in a visually understandable way.