“If you think that the internet has changed your life, think again. The Internet of Things is about to change it all over again!”
— Brendan O’Brien (Engineer)
In the current times, all of us use some kind of smart device, be it television, security camera, or Wi-Fi. But have you ever wondered how we are able to connect these ‘everyday things’ to the internet? Well, the Internet of Things (IoT) is the simple answer to it.
You will be surprised to know that last year, there were more than 16 billion IoT devices in the world and this number is expected to double by 2030. (Statista: Number of IoT Connections Worldwide)
But as the saying goes, ’every good thing comes with challenges.’ Similarly, IoT has its own advantages and drawbacks. So, stay tuned as I tell you everything about it and also the role of IoT development services in it.
What is IoT?
The Internet of Things can be understood as a network of data that connects and exchanges data with the cloud and other IoT devices. Let me help you understand IoT with this simple analogy.
Think of how the neural system in our body performs the three basic functions, i.e., collecting sensory data, processing this data, and initiating actions in this world. Well, the infrastructure of IoT also performs the same basic functions.
You must have observed how heavily we rely on these tools, from the small gadgets we use every day to various complex tools used in large industries. These tools enable data to be transferred directly through a network without requiring any human interruptions in between.
Now you might ask about the role of IoT developmental services in it, well, they act as intermediaries to design, implement, and maintain these systems.
Pros of IoT
As I mentioned earlier in this article, there are billions of IoT devices that people use every day in their lives, let’s discuss what are the benefits it offers that make their demands rise to these degrees.
1. Enhanced Efficiency and Automation
What a waste of time and effort it is to do the same repetitive task manually, isn’t it? But guess what, IoT brings the perfect solution for it by automating tasks, improving resource management, reducing waste, and ultimately enhancing the efficiency of the systems.
2. Improved Decision-Making
IoT devices are the masters of handling data. They can effectively collect, analyze, and provide real-time insights from devices and sensors. So, if you own a business or are involved in any operations that require quick and informed decision-making, then IoT tools are something not to bargain for.
3. Cost Savings
The smart energy meters and thermostats installed at my place, effectively help me cut significant amounts, saving large sums of money for me. Similarly, there are tens of thousands of smart devices operating through IoT used regularly.
4. Environmental Benefits
As I said in the previous point, IoT can help manage electricity demands, but not only that, some smart innovations can also ensure optimal usage of water and other resources, benefiting the environment.
DO YOU KNOW? It is expected that there will be more than 39 billion IoT connections worldwide.
Cons of IoT
Now that we have discussed the advantages of IoT, it will only be fair if we look to the other side and discuss some of its drawbacks as well.
1. Security Concerns
Numerous cases of cyberattacks and hacking are reported every year, therefore security becomes a matter of concern while talking about IoT.
2. Privacy Issues
No question that IoT devices like health trackers are significantly helpful, however, they always pose a risk of your private information being leaked and misused.
3. High Implementation Costs
IoT can help save significant amounts in the long run, but when it comes to implementations, it requires you to have a large budget.
4. Dependence on Internet Connectivity
These systems are highly dependent on the Internet. If you are able to read this article, you must have an internet connection in reach, but still, there are places in this world where the internet has not reached yet. So we can say that if someone does not have a stable connection, IoT devices are of little to no use for you.
FUN FACT The first IoT device was a soda machine at Carnegie Mellon.
Striking a Balance
We have established that IoT has invaluable advantages, but at the same time, it also brings some security concerns. So, how do we find the balance between the two to ensure the safe and optimal use of this technology?
Well, there are some measures that can help you achieve a balanced approach. The ones that I find the most useful are listed below-
Modern Security Systems: I have implemented various modern and enhanced security measures like encryption, segmentation, and other advanced security protocols, this acts as an extra layer for data protection and helps me ensure a secure network.
Adding security gateways: With more processing power and capabilities than IoT devices themselves, security gateways act as a stronger intermediary between the IoT device you are using and the network, preventing any unauthorized access.
Education and Training: Almost everyone uses these devices in one way or another. Therefore, it is necessary for them to be made aware of the potential dangers of IoT and educated about precautions to stay safe.
Standardization: Setting a certain set of rules and standards can help ensure a better-secured network and reduce unnecessary complications.
Conclusion
As we discussed in this article, IoT devices offer numerous benefits. We have started relying so much on this technology that there are billions of IoT devices already existing, and this number is only expected to rise even more. But along with the advantages, these devices also bring various security and privacy concerns that cannot be ignored.
Neither the benefits nor the drawbacks can be overlooked, therefore, it is essential for us to find the perfect balance between both. You can effectively establish a more secure IoT system by implementing the precautions and measures shared above.
