What is the Internet of Things and How Does It Work?

The Internet of Things is important because of its capability to provide both individuals and companies with useful data and analytics. It also increases ease of use by enabling several devices to be simply controlled through a smart phone or via speech commands.

The key benefits of this network of objects can be broken down into three areas — interconnectivity, communication and automation.

This is the core pillar of the IoT. It allows for holistic integration between smart devices and allows the user to control them from one touchpoint.

With an IoT-enabled thermostat, for instance, you can check its status directly from your phone without being in the same room. Interconnectivity is also what allows your fitness trackers, smart appliances, and voice assistants to work and share data seamlessly with each other.

At the business level, this inter-device communication helps companies to stay ahead of potential problems. Communication between devices can tell users if a piece of equipment requires maintenance before it breaks, allowing the company to service the equipment before it interrupts workflow. These devices can often indicate the exact part of the equipment that is experiencing issues, which can reduce the amount of time a technician has to spend on site finding and fixing the problem.

Because devices are interconnected and capable of communicating with one another, they can often be set to perform certain functions in an automatic fashion.

Returning to our smart home analogy, automation can help you complete your morning routine. With the proper smart technology in your home, you can set your coffee maker to brew and your alarm clock to go off at the same time every morning, helping you keep your schedule consistent.

At the business level, automation becomes even more powerful. Some farmers have found ways to use the Internet of Things to improve the efficiency of their greenhouses. Smart greenhouses can help regulate climate, lighting, air movement, and water usage, allowing plants to grow with less human interaction.

The Internet of Things is something that tech companies have worked toward for decades. The whole concept branches from the idea that adding sensors and artificial intelligence (AI) to devices could improve efficiency and expand the range of services a single device could provide.

In 1999, the British tech pioneer Kevin Ashton coined the term "Internet of Things." He had an idea of a future in which devices were connected to one another in much the same way that people and computers connect with one another via the internet. Now, with huge advances in AI and technology, we have reached a point where it’s easier than ever to create a more robust Internet of Things.

• Safety: The Internet of Things doesn't just apply to machines. It can also help people make smarter and safer decisions. Some manufacturers have taken to using IoT-enabled devices to monitor personal protective equipment (PPE) for their workers. By measuring the data provided, companies can ensure that PPE is being worn properly and effectively.
  
  
• Smart power grids: Some utility companies have installed smart sensors within their power grids. These devices can both alert users of outages and service interruptions immediately, as well as point repair crews to the issue faster than without the technology.

There are several career opportunities for people who wish to work with IoT, including:

• Software: To build a connected product, you need a software programmer who can code for the specific applications of the device. These people help to ensure that the device can communicate with other things on the network, and that the IoT capabilities don't get in the way of the device’s primary function.
  
  
• Networking: Devices have to be set up and connected in a way that allows them to speak to one another. Much like setting up a computer network, IoT networking requires some particular skills.
  
  
• Hardware: At the end of the day, the Internet of Things is built from hardware. The industry needs people who can perform repairs on these devices, particularly at the industrial level.