The Key Differences between Network of Things and Internet of Things
The Internet of Things (IoT) has been one of the hottest buzzwords in technology for quite some time now. IoT refers to the connection of physical objects to the internet, enabling them to collect and exchange data, often without requiring human intervention. However, there’s another term that’s often used interchangeably with the IoT, and that’s the Network of Things (NoT).
While both terms are related to machine-to-machine communications, the Network of Things and the Internet of Things are not the same thing. In this article, we’re going to discuss the main differences between the two.
What is the Internet of Things (IoT)?
The Internet of Things is a vast network of interconnected devices, with sensors, software, and other technologies, that communicate with one another autonomously. Typically, IoT devices are a variety of everyday objects, including cars, appliances, and even wearable devices like smartwatches. The primary goal of IoT is to increase efficiency and convenience, as well as to improve the quality of life for people across the world.
What is the Network of Things (NoT)?
The Network of Things also comprises of a network of interconnected devices, which communicate with each other. However, in contrast to the IoT, the NoT focuses on how these devices communicate with each other. The NoT is about optimizing the network infrastructure and enabling secure communication between devices.
The NoT uses advanced networking technologies such as 5G and Software-Defined Networking (SDN) to create a high-performance, scalable, and secure network that enables seamless communication between machines. In contrast, the IoT devices usually have a simplistic communication mechanism.
Main Differences Between IoT and NoT
1. Intelligence level: The IoT devices are designed to be self-contained and intelligent; they can collect, process, and act on data without needing human intervention. On the other hand, NoT devices require one or more controllers to manage communication, making them less intelligent than IoT devices.
2. Communication mechanism: As mentioned earlier, the IoT’s communication mechanism is quite simple, with the devices communicating with each other directly. In contrast, the NoT uses various advanced networking technologies such as 5G and SDN to enable a seamless network.
3. Security: With the NoT fully focused on optimizing the network infrastructure and communications, security is a priority. The NoT pays particular attention to ensuring secure communication between devices. The IoT devices, on the other hand, may lack adequate security measures due to their simplicity.
Real-world Applications of IoT and NoT
One of the most common applications of IoT is in home automation. Several devices, including thermostats, lights, and locks, can be connected to a central hub, making it possible to control them from anywhere using a mobile device. In contrast, one of the most common applications of the NoT is in smart cities. NoT is essential for ensuring that the different systems in a smart city can communicate securely and efficiently with each other.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the terms Network of Things and Internet of Things may sound similar, they represent two different concepts. In summary, the IoT is about the intelligent, direct communication between devices, while the NoT is concerned with optimizing the underlying network infrastructure and ensuring secure communication between devices. Organizations must understand the differences between the two concepts before they choose which network type to adopt.
