IoT (Internet of Things)

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of physical objects, devices, sensors and systems, that are embedded with software and connectivity to collect, exchange, and act on data in real time. These smart devices communicate over the internet or private networks and are capable of operating autonomously or in coordination with other systems.

IoT technology bridges the gap between the physical and digital worlds by enabling real-time sensing, monitoring, and automation. Each device in an IoT ecosystem typically has a unique identifier (UID), embedded sensors, communication interfaces, and sometimes local processing capability (edge computing). The collected data is often transmitted to cloud-based or local platforms for further analysis, triggering automated responses or informing human decisions.

Common applications include:

• Industrial IoT (IIoT) – monitoring equipment performance, predictive maintenance, and process optimisation
• Smart cities – intelligent traffic systems, environmental monitoring, and public safety
• Healthcare – remote patient monitoring and wearable devices
• Smart homes and buildings – energy usage tracking, HVAC control, and automation
• Logistics and supply chain – real-time tracking and asset condition monitoring

Security, scalability, and interoperability are critical challenges in large-scale IoT deployments. Protocols such as MQTT and CoAP are often used for lightweight communication, and platforms increasingly rely on AI and machine learning to interpret data streams and optimise system behaviour.

See also: Sensor technology, IoT