In order to answer the question of what makes an IoT Network different to a normal network, we must begin by defining what makes the Internet of Things unique.
The IoT Explained
The IoT is a collection of devices that are able to independently discover each other (and connect over the internet) in order to share and analyse data they have gathered.
The purpose is to assist people and organisations gain a better comprehension of where systems and processes can be improved, offering benefits such as increased efficiency, financial savings, or environmental compliance.
The first thing that sets IoT machines apart from typical “smart” networked devices (such as phones, tablets and computers) is that they have evolved from tools that previously would not have been designed or able to communicate. They were created for a specific purpose (for example, a vending machine to dispense items) and no more.
Now, they can leverage networks to enable communication with sensors, other machines and cloud platforms, in order to send important data back-to-base for actioning.
Continuing our example, a vending machine can now send an alert when it is low on stock - or if there is a fault - rather than remaining out of stock (or out of order) until maintenance can next attend the site.
So What Makes The Networks Different?
As mentioned previously, the capability to autonomously locate other devices is one of the features that sets an IoT mesh apart from a regular internet network.
Typically, an internet connection would expect to find a relevant device and enforce linking with it for the purposes of enabling and maintaining network function.
IoT devices, by contrast, utilise a network technology for connection with each other, and these nodes can communicate autonomously and with each other.
Further to that concept, an IoT framework is usually private and decentralised in the sense that currently, every IoT system operates independently of others. This means any new device must be appropriately configured before joining the loop, and of all the structures currently operating worldwide, none of them ever come into contact with another.
Conversely, a large part of the internet – despite starting life as a somewhat decentralised arrangement - now relies on a small handful of centralised servers. With the right tools a majority of the world can connect to the same Internet, but access to the “closed loop” of an IoT mesh requires custom engineering and access.
So to summarise, an IoT network is a closed-loop mesh of autonomously operating devices which can communicate with each other when required, while regular networks rely on readiness to connect with an external system.
How Can Robustel Help
You too can streamline operations and gain valuable data insights – all you need is the right solution.
Our business is Making Things Connected, through our range of modems, routers and RCMS, our cloud management platform.
The first step would be to talk to one our many knowledgeable IoT Solutions architects, who will get to understand your specific issues and path to market before recommending a solution. Our team will work with you closely to find a Robustel product and regional partner that will help suit your specific needs.
To get in touch with Robustel and arrange a discussion with one of our solutions architects contact us today – https://www.robustel.com/contact-us/
If you are already using Robustel devices you can set-up a free RCMS account by clicking here