It is disservice to innovation to refer to key technologies as just buzzwords. One such technology is the Internet of Things (IoT). Most people refer to it without understanding its technical details or nuances.
Since 1999, when Kevin Ashton, a sensors expert, coined the term IoT, so-called technology professionals have made IoT a myth. Ericsson projects that there will be 3.5 billion IoT connections by 2023, with a 30% compound annual growth rate. It is therefore more important than ever to dispel any misinformation and fears that laymen may have about this technology.
This article will try to dispel some popular myths about IoT, which have been based on a superficial understanding. An industry outsider can easily understand IoT.
The Internet of Things: A Simple Explanation
The heart of IoT is an interconnected system of computing devices, digital and mechanical machines, as well as other objects and humans. Each component is assigned a unique identifier that allows it to transmit data over a network.
These interactions via the network don’t require human-to-human interaction, and will eventually not require human-to-machine interaction. IoT basically means connecting all things to the internet.
IoT’s vague definition and broad understanding often lead to myths. IoT components are comprised of sensors that collect and transfer information, computers and the facilitating network.
Although experts and online news sites have tried to simplify IoT concepts as much as possible, there are still many misconceptions. Let’s discuss these myths and attempt to dispel them.
What are the Most Common IoT Myths
Irrational fears and the impact of mythicization on IoT are not only affecting the technology’s progress, but also threatening it. These fears could lead to a decline in the economy of IoT and a reduction in funding for research into these concepts. These myths are harmful:
Myth 1: IoT can be exclusively marketed as a product
Experts in the technology often refer to IoT products. Many refer to IoT as ‘buying’ because there is not enough detail. It is difficult to call it a product because of the sheer volume of IoT.
IoT is a technology method that allows for better automation and digitalization. IoT objects can be used and consumed as products. It is impossible to price IoT systems due to its complexity and size, even within one enterprise.
Myth 2: Sensors are what give IoT its value
This myth is based on the accepted definition of IoT, which is a network of intelligent devices with built-in sensors. There are too many components to assign value to one component in an IoT network. The data collected would have priority if one of the components had to be given priority.
IoT also includes the analysis applications that process and evaluate data from different endpoints. Raw data can be collected by sensors, but it is not of any value. The real value lies in transforming it into useful insights.
Myth #3 – IoT Will Take Our Jobs Away
Many workers believe that one-day a robot, machine or software will take over their job and perform it better than they do. A network of automated workers could communicate more effectively and reach goals faster, according to many workers.
Although this myth is not impossible to believe, it requires a better understanding. Automation cannot handle tasks that are not routine or can’t be defined with clear rules. Combining IoT with artificial intelligence allows for more repetitive tasks to be automated using algorithms and learning patterns.
Myth #4 – There are only a few IoT systems in use
Many people mistakenly believe that enterprises have fewer un-agentive devices. Actual data from Statistashows there are more than 13 billion active IoT devices connections than there are non-IoT connections.
Data analysts clearly show that IoT devices are outpacing managed devices such as desktops, laptops, and servers. These devices are everywhere: power and utilities, business processes and HVAC, web cameras and tablets, personal devices, and many more.
Myth 5: IoT devices are safe from malicious attacks
This myth is based on the belief that hackers would not profit from hacking your smart TV or Near-Field Communication badge reader. The truth is, more of these attacks occur than is publicized.
TechRepublic compiled a report that showed criminal IoT attacks increased by 600% in 2017-2018. Data manipulation and data theft are possible when an enterprise IoT network is breached. Network disruption is a serious threat. This could lead to operational and financial losses, as well as a threat to the safety of consumers and workers.
Myth 6: All IoT devices are compatible with each other
IoT devices operate within a restricted domain that allows them to work with other devices, usually from the same vendor. Vendors often grant privileged access via a cloud interface to information collected from their devices.
Another group of vendors prefers direct access to their devices. Predetermined standards determine the level of compatibility. The IoT market works on the basis of these standards. Devices that can support the same protocols enable data, access and control to be shared via these protocols and standards.
Myth 7: There is only one IoT Standard/Protocol
Many IoT standards are currently in development. Open-source IoT connectivity providers and security tools providers provide open-source IoT standards that enterprises can implement.
IoT makes use of established network standards such as the 802.15.4 wireless protocol and the IPv6 communication protocols. It also uses embedded control protocols such as MQTT. Due to market competition and vendor lock in, it is not possible to create an all-encompassing standard that will apply to all IoT devices and systems.
Myth 8: Privacy cannot be guaranteed in IoT systems
When it comes to IoT myths, privacy and security are not the same thing. Enterprises and end users must protect information from being stolen or used by other organisations.
Privacy measures like using strong passwords, avoiding public Wi Fi, changing your router name frequently, and using guest networks are all recommended to ensure privacy in IoT networks. It is important that IoT devices comply with privacy policies.
Myth 9: IoT is the same as machine-machine communication
An IoT system’s data transfer capabilities are similar to Machine-Machine and M2M communication. There are many differences between them, but there are also similarities. One example is that any number of hosts could act as control centers or repositories in IoT. This is unusual for M2M.
It is easy to use M2M analogies for IoT, but it is difficult to compare them as the former does not involve machine-like devices such as smartphones and humans. Instead, you can see IoT simply as an extension of the M2M basic principles.
Myth 10: Traditional Enterprise Security Solutions Can Protect IoT
Legacy security solutions won’t suffice in a network that allows devices to communicate with one another constantly. Your IoT system may be behind a basic firewall, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it is secure from being compromised.
A security solution must be able to protect against any attacks on devices that are required to remain visible on a network at all time. A control center using machine learning algorithms that are well trained must whitelist devices. A dedicated security team must oversee the grant of access and privileges at all times.