The Internet of Things (IoT) is an interconnected network of physical objects that "speak" to one another using sensors and software. These devices connect over the internet and can be used to transmit data, perform data analysis and control one another remotely.
To get a sense of how this works, let’s use a smart home as an Internet of Things example. Imagine a home that features a smart device such as an Amazon Echo™ or a Google Home™1, a smart thermostat, several smart bulbs and a high-tech sprinkler system. Thanks to the Internet of Things, you can control every device using voice commands that are routed through your smart device. Many of these devices also have the capability to transmit usage data to your phone through an app. That data can provide a clearer picture of things used in the house like water usage from the sprinkler system, electrical demand from your interior lighting and the amount of time your air conditioning or heating unit spends running. The data gained from these devices makes it easier for people to make informed decisions about how and when they use them.
Of course, the Internet of Things isn't just useful for smart homes, there are several industrial and professional uses for IoT connected devices. In this article we'll explore why the Internet of Things is important, how it was developed, and how it can be applied to business environments to improve workflow. You'll learn about all of these topics and more in the following sections: