What Is the Internet of Things (IoT)?

These days, it seems as though just about everything has the ability to connect to the internet in some way. Beyond your "typical" smartphones, tablets, and computers, an increasing number of everyday devices (like watches, thermostats, and even refrigerators) are now designed with Wi-Fi connectivity and sensors that allow them to transmit data over the internet.

Known as the Internet of Things (IoT), these interconnected devices have already reshaped our daily lives — and this is only just the beginning. For those aspiring to explore careers in information technology (IT) or computer science, knowing the ins and outs of these devices while anticipating future trends could make all the difference when it comes to career success.

Everyday Examples of IoT in Action

According to one study in the International Journal of Scientific Research in Computer Science, Engineering and Information Technology, the number of IoT devices connected to the internet globally is projected to reach more than 75 billion in 2025. That's more than 75 billion different devices, each with their own sensors, data processing/computing powers, software, and security needs.

More than likely, you already have a handful of IoT devices connected in your own home. Examples of common IoT applications include:

• Smart devices, such as Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats, smart lights, and doorbells.
• Wearable fitness trackers, with popular brands including Fitbit and Garmin.
• Connected cars, including vehicles with their own Wi-Fi hotspots or electric vehicles that rely on software updates over Wi-Fi.
• Smart appliances, such as Wi-Fi-enabled refrigerators, washers/dryers, and robot vacuums.

How Does IoT Work?

In simplest terms, IoT operates by connecting devices to the internet and using those connections to share important data. Some of these devices also have built-in sensors that automatically collect and process data, although many IoT devices upload and store data to a cloud-based service.

Sensors and Connected Devices

Internet of Things devices rely on sensors to collect the information they need to function. A smart watch, for example, may collect heart rate data, steps, and sleep information to give users a better idea of their overall health and wellness. On the other hand, a smart thermostat may collect ongoing data on the temperature of the house, the temperature outside, and humidity levels to keep living spaces comfortable year-round.

Networks and Communication Protocols

Additionally, IoT devices are unique in that they must be connected to the internet in order to function properly. Many devices connect via the user's Wi-Fi, though it is also possible for some IoT devices to connect via Bluetooth or even cellular data.

Data Collection, Processing, and Analysis

Data from an IoT device can be uploaded using a Wi-Fi network. Usually, this information is uploaded to a cloud server that is owned and maintained by the device's company. From there, it can be processed and analyzed to identify trends or implement certain actions on the device itself.

The Role of Edge Computing in IoT

As you might imagine, the amount of cloud storage needed to house all IoT data is enormous. For this reason, some companies are beginning to make the switch to edge computing as a means of storing some IoT data closer to the actual data source rather than automatically uploading all of it to the cloud. Using edge computing, it may be possible to process more data locally while reducing latency and improving overall security.

Key Components of the Internet of Things

What exactly makes up an Internet of Things device? In general, all of these devices share some common components that set them apart from non-IoT devices.

Sensors and Devices

First, all IoT devices have some kind of sensors in place that can gather data from the device's immediate physical environment. Many devices even have several sensors to measure different things. For instance, a smart doorbell may use sensors to detect both motion and sound.

Connectivity and Networks

Likewise, all IoT devices have the ability to connect to the internet and/or communicate with other devices. This connectivity allows for data to be uploaded and processed from the device in real time.

Data Processing and Analytics

While many devices upload collected data to a centralized cloud server, edge computing now makes it possible for some data to be stored locally. Either way, all IoT devices have a means of processing and analyzing data — often relying on machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) to pinpoint data trends or make other predictions.

User Interfaces and Applications

All IoT devices have a built-in user interface that enables users to interact with the device itself. A smart thermostat, for example, has a touchscreen with different menus and displays, allowing users to explore historical temperature data and other relevant information. Some devices also have their own smartphone app that users can download to get more out of their experience.

Importance and Impact of IoT

In many ways, IoT devices keep the world running by making it possible to share data seamlessly. In addition to enhancing daily life for many people, some industries rely heavily on IoT devices to maximize efficiency and streamline operations.

Transforming Industries and Infrastructure

IoT devices have become integral across many industries, including healthcare. Wearable devices can be used to monitor patients remotely and better manage certain health conditions. IoT is even being used to improve infrastructures of the communities in which we live by monitoring traffic management, weather, and other environmental concerns.

Enhancing Daily Life and Consumer Experience

For everyday users with IoT devices, these small gadgets simply make life more convenient. For example, a smart thermostat allows users to maximize comfort in their homes while improving their energy efficiency. Meanwhile, smart doorbells can give homeowners a greater sense of security while saving them the hassle of answering the door for solicitors and door-to-door salespeople.

Enabling Data-Driven Decision-Making

For businesses and individuals alike, IoT devices also can help improve decision-making. With so much data being collected, processed, and analyzed, IoT devices offer the detailed insights that are needed to make informed decisions.

Creating New Opportunities and Economic Value

In some ways, IoT devices are encouraging the creation of new products and services that can lead to exciting opportunities and added economic value. By transforming everyday devices into "smart" and connected devices, businesses can explore new revenue options while meeting public demand.

Applications of IoT Across Industries

You'd be hard-pressed to find an industry that hasn't been affected by IoT in recent years, with applications ranging from everyday consumer devices to healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, and beyond.

Smart Homes and Consumer Devices

Common smart home IoT devices (such as doorbells, appliances, and lighting) enable homeowners to run their households more efficiently alongside the ability to monitor and control certain aspects of their homes remotely.

Healthcare and Wearables

In the healthcare industry, IoT devices also mean that nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals can better monitor and care for patients while reducing costs. For example, wearable devices allow patients to automatically share relevant healthcare data with their providers from the comfort of their homes. In addition, ingestible sensors, IoT-enabled medical alert systems, and even continuous glucose monitors help healthcare teams better care for patients with fewer resources.

Manufacturing and Industrial IoT (IIoT)

Today, industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) devices are also relied upon in manufacturing as a means of maximizing efficiency, streamlining operations, and reducing costs. One prime example of this can be seen in predictive maintenance — where IoT-enabled sensors placed on manufacturing equipment can predict when preventive maintenance will be needed to avoid a major and costly breakdown.

Transportation and Smart Cities

In the transportation sector, IoT-enabled devices may help foster safer communities. Automated tolls and ticketing, for example, can keep traffic flowing smoothly. Meanwhile, IoT-enabled traffic management systems can make automatic adjustments to traffic cycles based on real-time data.

Agriculture and Environmental Monitoring

Even the field of agriculture has been affected by IoT technology, with technology such as precision farming and livestock management leading to better yields while being more environmentally conscious.

Benefits and Opportunities of IoT

The application of IoT can be beneficial in a number of ways, with the potential to enhance efficiency, decision-making, and the customer experience.

Improved Efficiency and Automation

One of the main advantages that IoT has to offer is its potential for improved automation and efficiency. Because IoT-enabled devices can automate many tasks, they can reduce the amount of time and effort needed to carry out these same tasks manually. This, in turn, can save businesses money and resources without sacrificing performance.

Real-Time Decision-Making

Likewise, the data collected from IoT devices can be used to improve decision-making —especially when data can be processed and analyzed in real-time for the best possible insights. This can be particularly useful for businesses looking to enhance their own decision-making when it comes to process optimization and allocation of resources.

Enhanced Customer Experiences

Today's consumers like to have as much data and control over their devices as possible, and they appreciate the level of convenience that smart devices can afford them. When IoT devices can keep homes comfortable, energy bills down, and even help improve human health, their overall customer service and satisfaction are improved.

Innovation and New Business Models

As new IoT devices emerge, the potential for innovation and new business models can be explored. A decade or more ago, the idea of smart home technology or even wearable technology was still in its infancy — yet today, these sectors comprise a large portion of the global IoT market. You simply never know what kinds of innovations and opportunities may lie around the corner.

IoT Implementation Strategies and Guides

More than ever, businesses are turning to IT professionals to assist them with IoT deployment projects. Because implementing IoT can be highly complex with many moving parts and factors to consider, some essential strategies are worth keeping in mind when implementing IoT in any context.

Define Clear Objectives and Use Cases

First, IT professionals should sit down with clients to discuss the overall goals and objectives of the IoT implementation. Ideally, the team should be able to come up with some specific problems that IoT would be able to address or resolve as well as particular use cases for the technology itself.

Choose the Right Hardware and Platforms

Once teams have a better idea of their primary goal for implementing IoT, it's time to take the next step of choosing the right hardware, protocols, and platforms for the job. More specifically, IT professionals may be able to provide guidance in regard to the types of sensors, actuators, and other hardware that will help teams meet their goals.

From there, deciding how data will be transmitted and stored is also critical. Wi-Fi is a popular option, although alternatives like Bluetooth or cellular data may need to be considered.

Prioritize Data Management and Integration

Because IoT devices generate incredible amounts of data, IT professionals will also need to work with teams of stakeholders to determine how data will be integrated and managed. This should include the creation of automated workflows and integration platforms that will make it possible to connect IoT devices with existing platforms and systems for cost-effectiveness.

Ensure Security From the Ground Up

Whenever large amounts of data are being transmitted from IoT devices, security is paramount. This is especially true if the data may be sensitive in nature. Either way, IT professionals are often tasked with formulating specific cybersecurity and compliance strategies to keep information as safe as possible, not just while it is being transmitted but also while being stored.

The use of data encryption, controlled access, and multi-factor authentication can help businesses maximize the security of their IoT devices. However, users should be encouraged to take their data security into their own hands, too.

Pilot, Test, and Scale Gradually

Whenever IoT is being implemented on any scale, regular testing and improvement is necessary. Ideally, businesses implementing IoT with the help of an IT professional should begin on a small scale, creating pilot and proof-of-concepts (POCs) to test and make adjustments to systems as needed. Over time, businesses can then scale their implementation while always being prepared to adapt and evolve as necessary.

The Future of the Internet of Things

IoT has already experienced countless advancements in recent years — but this is only the beginning. While only time will tell exactly what the future holds for IoT devices, certain emerging trends are already beginning to play out across industries.

Emerging Trends and Innovations

Some innovations making waves in IoT include:

• 5G – for ultra-fast, low-latency connections and faster data sharing.
• Smart dust – or tiny, networked sensors that can be deployed in large numbers to record and transmit more precise data.
• Voice-enabled and gesture-controlled interfaces – used increasingly and often to control devices and enhance the user experience.

Role of AI and Machine Learning in IoT

As with most industries, artificial intelligence and machine learning are also impacting the world of IoT. Specifically, both AI and ML are being leveraged to automate some tasks while processing large amounts of data more quickly than ever before. Likewise, AI is used to analyze data, predict trends, and gain other valuable insights from data that can save time while improving overall decision-making.

Predictions for IoT Growth and Market Impact

As more industries and individuals continue to rely on IoT devices, the size of the market is expected to grow. In fact, the global IoT market size was valued at more than $1.1 billion in 2023 alone — with a projected CAGR growth of an additional 11.4% by the year 2030.

How to Start a Career in the Internet of Things

Given the emerging trends and opportunities discussed, now could be a great time for aspiring IT professionals to break into the field and take advantage of the growing need for experts who can assist with IoT implementation and deployment.

So, what does it take to start a career working with Internet of Things devices and systems?

Skills Needed for IoT Professionals

IoT professionals need to have the following technical skills:

• Proficiency in commonly used programming languages (including Python, C, and Java)
• An extensive understanding of networking and cybersecurity best practices (particularly as it relates to protecting data being transmitted over networks)
• Experience in embedded systems design
• Knowledge of cloud computing and data analytics
• Understanding of sensors and edge computing (especially related to IoT applications)

In addition to these technical skills, IoT professionals should also possess some core competencies that range from strong interpersonal skills to excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.

Popular Job Roles in IoT

With the right skills under your belt, you may be able to explore any number of roles in IoT. Examples include:

• IoT solutions architect – These professionals work with businesses to design and deploy IoT systems within their organizations.
• Embedded systems engineer – These individuals are responsible for designing, developing, and implementing embedded systems that enable IoT devices to collect data and perform specific functions.
• IoT security analyst – These experts are specifically responsible for improving cybersecurity within IoT systems, ensuring that businesses operate within industry compliance regulations.
• Network systems engineer – These individuals handle all aspects of an organization's network connections, from design and implementation to ongoing maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Data analyst or machine learning engineer – These professionals may work with businesses to implement machine learning, AI, and other tools to enhance data insights and decision-making.

Educational Pathways and Certifications

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), those working in computer and information systems roles (including in IoT) typically need a minimum of a bachelor's degree in IT, computer science, or a related field. Along with earning a relevant degree, those wanting to break into IoT as a career may pursue additional certifications to hone their skills.

Having specific certifications in IoT can be an ideal way to set yourself apart while focusing on IoT-specific skills that can be directly applied to your everyday work. Some relevant certifications in IoT include:

• Certified Internet of Things Practitioner (CIoTP)
• CTIA IoT Cybersecurity Certification
• Azure IoT Certified Developer

Ready to Learn More?

With the number of connected IoT devices steadily rising across the globe, future generations of IT professionals will need to be well-versed in these technologies in order to meet the demands of modern users.

Through a bachelor's degree in information technology from Champlain College Online, you can be prepared to excel in today's dynamic tech landscape with coursework in important topics such as IoT and edge computing, network design, cybersecurity, and blockchain technology. Plus, because this program is offered online, you can pursue your degree on your own time with dedicated faculty support and other student resources.

Get in touch to learn more about CCO's bachelor's in IT program, or take the next step by filling out your online application today.