What is IoT? - IoT, also known as the Internet of Everything (IoE), refers to computing devices that are web-enabled and capable of sensing, collecting, and sending data using sensors, and the communication hardware and processors that are embedded within the device.
In IoT, a thing is referred to as a device that is implanted on natural, man-made, or machine-made objects, and has the functionality of communicating over the network. IoT utilizes the existing and emerging technologies for sensing, networking, and robotics, thereby allowing the user to achieve deeper analysis, automation, and integration within a system. An increase in the networking capabilities of machines and everyday appliances used in different sectors, such as offices, homes, industries, transportation, buildings, and wearable devices, opens up a world of opportunities for the betterment of business and better customer satisfaction. Some of the important key features of IoT are connectivity, sensors, artificial intelligence, small devices, and active engagement.
IoT Architecture
The IoT architecture includes several layers, starting from the Application layer at the top to the
Edge Technology Layer at the bottom. These layers are designed in such a way that they can meet the requirements of various sectors like societies, industries, enterprises, and governments. The functions performed by each layer in the architecture are as follows:
▪ Edge Technology Layer
This layer consists of all hardware parts, such as sensors, RFID tags, readers or other soft sensors, and the device itself. These entities are the primary part of the data sensors that are deployed in the field for monitoring or sensing various phenomena. This layer plays an important role in data collection, along with connecting devices within the network, and with the server.
▪ Access Gateway Layer
This layer helps bridge the gap between two endpoints, such as a device and a client. The very first data handling also takes place in this layer. It carries out message routing, message identification, and subscription.
▪ Internet Layer
This is one of the crucial layers within the IoT architecture, as it serves as the main component in communicating between two endpoints. The communication can be between two devices, any device connected to a cloud, or between a device and any local gateway service; it may also involve backend data sharing.