The Internet of Things (IoT) is a term that was coined in the late 1980s but whose use was primarily limited to the IT community. Progress on it was slow because the technology was not in place to support the idea. Much has changed in a few decades. In recent years, it has become much more commonly used but there are many people struggling to clarify what this new buzz term means and how it applies to them.
Very simply, the “Internet of Things” refers to billions of physical devices around the world that are connected to the Internet. These “things” collect and share data. A “thing” is any object with embedded electronics that can transfer data over a network without any human interaction. Nearly any physical object can be transformed into an IoT device if it can be connected to the Internet and controlled that way. Inexpensive processors and wireless networks make it economically feasible. The term ‘IoT’ is usually used for devices that wouldn’t typically be expected to have an Internet connection that can communicate with the network independently of human action. For this reason, a PC isn’t generally considered an IoT device and neither is your smartphone. Some examples of IoT devices are wearable devices like a fitness band, environmental sensors like smart thermostats, machinery in factories, devices in homes and buildings, components in a vehicle and, of course driverless vehicles. Homes and businesses are rapidly increasing their connections to the IoT.
The IoT is changing the way businesses operate. Using IoT data, businesses can extract valuable insights to improve aspects of their operations and develop new and innovative business models. In a connected building data gathered can be used for predictive maintenance of equipment and to increase energy efficiency. In a retail setting, in-store devices can help improve the customer experience. In an education setting, classroom innovations are being driven by devices and the security and safety on campus is enhanced by IoT driven technology. In a health care setting, wearable devices can be used to improve patient outcomes and even to save lives.
As more devices connect to form the Internet of Things, the volume of data is expanding at an exponential rate. To keep pace with this expansion, businesses need to make sure they are prepared for it. The first step in preparation is examining the infrastructure. There are several key areas that are vital to a business successfully engaging with the IoT: security, data storage, wireless capacity. Security needs to be shored up to prevent hacking of devices as well as data breeches; the volume of data produced needs a storage place either on-site or in the cloud; and wireless strength and capacity must be at its peak to support the many devices interconnected in this environment. A typical corporate I/T department is not prepared to address these issues on the scale that is needed. Partnering with a communications infrastructure expert is often the best solution to gaining solid footing in this new environment. An infrastructure expert will support and enhance I/T’s efforts.
A communications infrastructure expert can examine the wired infrastructure, determine the efficiency of the wireless network, and evaluate the strength of network security. An organization’s communications infrastructure needs to be reliable, scalable and secure. Connecting new equipment and technologies to the communications network requires that the network can meet those increasing demands. Partnering with an expert who can make recommendations for strengthening the backbone of your wired network and planning for future needs will save time and money in the long run. Improving wireless network strength, reliability and reach may be achieved by installing cellular bi-directional antennae. Helping define and prioritize the requirements for your network and ensuring that they can scale to future demands is also an area where a partnership with a communications infrastructure expert can be of benefit.
If you are ready to explore how your business can prepare for the Internet of Things and the many demands it will place on your communications infrastructure contact the experts at KTS. We create partnerships to strengthen your business. We connect the disconnect. 866-797-0997.
