Exploring the Differences: Internet of Things vs Internet
The internet is arguably the most significant invention of the 20th century, which has drastically changed our lives and revolutionized the way we communicate and access information. In recent years, another technological advancement has emerged known as the Internet of Things (IoT) that has taken the world by storm. However, many people are still confused about what IoT is and how it differs from the internet.
Let’s take a closer look at the fundamental differences between the internet and IoT.
What is the internet?
The internet is a global network of computers that communicate with each other, enabling people to share and access information from anywhere in the world. It is an open network, meaning it allows anyone to connect to it and access information. The internet is usually accessed through devices like computers, smartphones, tablets, and other traditional communication devices.
What is the Internet of Things (IoT)?
IoT is a network of ‘smart’ devices connected through the internet; these devices can interact with each other to perform various tasks. IoT devices are embedded with sensors that can collect data, analyze it, and transmit it to other devices or servers over the internet. The sensors embedded in IoT devices can detect changes in their surroundings and respond to them without human intervention.
Key Differences
-Internet is a network of computers that communicate with each other, whereas IoT is a network of connected “smart” devices.
– Internet follows a client-server architecture, while IoT can follow both a client-server and a peer-to-peer architecture.
– Internet relies on IP addresses for communication, whereas IoT uses protocols such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and ZigBee to enable communication between devices.
– The internet is a passive network, whereas IoT is an active network capable of collecting and responding to data in real-time.
Examples of IoT Devices and Applications
IoT devices are useful in various industries and have applications that help in making our daily lives better. Here are a few examples:
– Smart Home Devices: Such as smart locks, smart thermostats, smart lighting systems, and smart speakers.
– Industrial IoT: Used for automating industrial processes, monitoring supply chains, and optimizing operations.
– Wearable Devices: Fitness trackers, smartwatches, and health monitoring devices.
– Smart Transportation: Self-driving cars, traffic management systems, connected motorcycles, and public transit IoT trackers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the internet and IoT are very different technologies, despite being closely related. The internet connects computers globally, while IoT connects “smart” devices that can analyze and respond to data in real-time. The IoT is a revolutionary technology that has the potential to transform industries and make our daily lives more comfortable and convenient. As IoT devices become more widespread and interconnect with each other, the possibilities for innovation are endless.
