What is the Internet of Things? -

The Internet of Things (IoT) conceptually refers to the dynamic networks that link physical objects with the virtual world via Internet connection, enabling “things” to sense, log, interpret and communicate information, as well as act autonomously or in cooperation with other devices, environments, and people. IoT connected objects’ computing power and connectivity may range from very limited to extensive, and types of sensors or data collection technology used will vary. The Internet currently connects anywhere from 10 billion to 16 billion objects; even so, more than 99 percent of the estimated 1.5 trillion things globally remain unconnected. By 2020, there may be anywhere from 26 billion to 50 billion globally connected objects.

The proliferation of connected objects and embedded sensors will generate data in real time and across time and in volumes far beyond that seen to date. Just as the Internet to date has increased access to information, provided opportunities for collaboration, and stimulated economic growth, so too does the IoT present possibilities for a host of societal, economic, and personal benefits. When individual objects such as cars, roads, thermostats, refrigerators, medication-monitoring pills, fitness devices, or even livestock or migrating animals are equipped with sensors and the ability to communicate information that is tracked, they can become tools for understanding complexity and improving a process or user experience. The IoT offers a world where everyday objects can: “listen” to their environment, begin to recognize people’s needs, personalize their environments, anticipate their behavior, and respond to their presence.