Learn what the Internet of Things is, examples, applications, and how does IoT work.
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What is Internet Of Things (IoT)?
The Internet of Things is taking all the physical things in the world and connecting them to the internet.
These devices used in your daily life can be your Smartphone, Coffee Makers, Washing machines, Headphones, Wearable devices and many more. In simple language, IoT is a concept in which things communicate with each other or with another device.
How does IoT work?
This sensor or device collects data from its environment. Next, the data is forwarded to the cloud through things like Bluetooth, wifi, satellite, etc. Once the data goes to the cloud, the software processes it and sends you reminders or updates.
Here’s an example:
When a boiler’s temperature increases altogether, that data will be sent to the cloud through the sensor. After which, it is seen in processing what the temperature is. If the temperature is found to be more than some limit, then the IoT system will send you the update through email, messages, etc.
The IoT system works by combining four different parts such as:
- Sensor or device
- Connectivity
- Data processing
- User interface
Applications of the Internet Of Things (IoT)
1. Smart Homes
Smart homes are a part of IoT. All the devices present in a smart home are connected to the internet and are handled by the sensor. You can use this sensor for your home door, AC, home heating, etc. If you have left the door of your house open and there is a sensor on that door, it will automatically close after a while, and you will get its information on your phone.
2. Wearable Technology
Under Wearable Technology, there are all the devices that we can wear like Smart Watch, Smart Shoes, Smart Clothes, etc. All these devices come under the Internet of Things; you must have heard about SmartWatch.
An example:
Apple Company’s Watch, in which you can do much of your work, these watches have sensors that you can connect to your mobile and send your email to whomever you want during the workout in the gym to use the mobile again and again.
Similarly, some smart clothes also come which keep giving you updates related to your health, like if you are performing out in the gym, they update you on how much weight you should lift, now you should rest, etc.
Likewise, many appliances are related to intelligent kitchens, bright gardens, and health, which are counted under the Internet of Things; these devices work according to the situation.
3. Smart Cities
The Internet of Things can solve the problem of people’s daily life; it can quickly deal with the issue of traffic, crime, and population. Cellular communication will send alerts to municipalities from some innovative products like Belly Trash.
By installing the sensor and using the web application, citizens can find the free parking slots available in the city; besides, the sensor can easily detect meter tampering issues.
Examples of IoT
1. CCTV Camera
An example of this is the CCTV camera installed in your home and factory. If you want to monitor it, you can watch and control the footage by sitting anywhere in the world. This technology is also helpful in intelligent homes. With the help of this, you can control lights, fans, and home appliances using smartphones.
2. Smart Cars
If a car wants to check the performance of all the vehicles running on the road, then that company can do this work with the help of IoT. The company can check its version by analyzing all the data (such as RPM, engine oil level, and many more) with the help of IoT.
3. For Industrial Purpose
Its use in the industry has also started increasing. If you face an issue in any machine, the engineer sitting somewhere else gets to know.
A practical approach to learn Internet of Things (IoT)
One effective way to learn IoT is hands-on experience. Start building simple projects like temperature sensors or smart lights.
This practical approach strengthens your understanding of various IoT concepts such as data collection, sensor integration, communication protocols, and device control.
Most of all, you can present these practical project experiences in your portfolio that will leave a positive impression on potential employers in your career.
At the same time, learn about IoT communication protocols, networking, and security—which are crucial for developing safe and reliable IoT systems.
Put simply, the best way to learn any technology like IoT is by doing, combined with continuous learning and staying connected with the IoT community.
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