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Types of IoT Networks
An Internet of Things (IoT) network is a group of hardware, including sensors, gadgets, appliances, and software, that interact with one another and share data and information without the need for human interaction. Businesses may now gather new insights from devices through IoT networks thanks to cloud and edge computing capabilities. Organizations may now monitor environmental, geospatial, and atmospheric variables in real time because of this bridging of the digital and physical worlds. Businesses can quickly respond to environmental changes when combined with automation, resulting in less downtime, more significant insights, and increased productivity.
How does an IoT Network work?
IoT Sensors
Small, low-cost sensors are used by IoT networks to gather data about the surroundings. For instance, farmers employ IoT sensors to track moisture levels, while industrial facilities utilize the same sensors to track pipe pressure. IoT sensors provide a wide range of configuration options and can track hundreds of distinct changes.
IoT Connectivity
IoT sensors feed information back to the cloud or an edge computing device constantly for processing. Instead of sending vast data streams, IoT devices usually utilize less power and provide smaller quantities of data. Since edge computing reduces the distance between the sensor and the server, it is frequently chosen by businesses that need the lowest latency and quickest reaction time. Businesses may select from a variety of IoT networks depending on the technology and use case to achieve their objectives. WiFi or cellular connections are the two methods through which sensors often convey their data. IoT Processing
The software then analyses and stores the data in the cloud or on an edge server after it has been collected. Several systems employ artificial intelligence and machine learning to take action when particular data is transmitted from a sensor. Businesses combine automation and IoT networks to coordinate device management in a low-cost, predictable, and scalable way. Enterprises are able to monitor anything from machine maintenance to the weather outdoors thanks to IoT management solutions' ability to handle data from diverse platforms.
Types of IoT Networks
Cellular
IoT devices may interact using cellular networks, the same mobile networks used by smartphones. These networks weren't always thought to be the most excellent option for IoT devices because they were first created for power-hungry gadgets like smartphones. Later, the cellular sector created new technologies that were more suited for IoT use cases. In the modern day, this kind of wireless network is widely used and regarded as a dependable and secure form of IoT communication. The majority of the U.S. has access to cell service, and this kind of network has an extensive coverage area. The locations where monitoring sensors are most necessary, such as within utility closets, elevator shafts, basements, etc., frequently lack cell coverage.
WiFi
WiFi is a standard option for IoT networks since many companies already have WiFi coverage across their infrastructure. For stationary IoT sensors that must communicate data over a medium distance, WiFi is a reliable solution. To assist and improve the dependability of their sensors, WiFi administrators could segment IoT sensors on a distinct subnet and apply quality of service. WiFi IoT networks do have certain disadvantages, though. WiFi networks don't have as much coverage as done by cellular networks because of their power restrictions. Mobile IoT sensors may have connection problems on WiFi networks since WiFi networks don't handle device handover as efficiently as cellular networks do.
Local and Personal Area Networks (LAN/PAN)
Personal area networks (PAN) and local area networks are networks that only span relatively limited distances (LAN). Although data transport via PAN and LAN networks is often thought to be cost-effective, it is not always dependable. WiFi and Bluetooth are two wireless personal and local area network technologies that are often used in IoT connectivity solutions. When numerous access points are included in a more extensive network, WiFi may be utilized for dispersed applications in addition to local ones. A single battery powered by Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) might last up to five years if the device is not continually receiving data. BLE is a more energy-efficient wireless network protocol.
Low Power Wide Area Networks (LPWAN)
IoT devices that use LPWANs transmit little data packets, rarely over great distances. This kind of wireless network was created in response to the early difficulties with cellular communication. LPWAN is marketed as having a more excellent range than WiFi and Bluetooth while consuming less power than cellular. LoRaWAN, which operates on the LoRa (long-range) communication network, is a well-known and widely used IoT network protocol in this category. LoRaWAN has benefits for IoT devices, including reduced power consumption (for longer battery life) and relatively affordable chipsets. A single base station or gateway operating on a long-range network is capable of delivering service to a very vast area-a few kilometers in congested metropolitan areas-under the right circumstances.
Mesh Networks
The connection configuration of mesh networks-how the parts communicate with one another—is the most effective way to characterize them. In mesh networks, all sensor nodes work together to share data among themselves so that it may reach the gateway. One illustration of an IoT wireless network technology is Zigbee. Mesh networks have a relatively limited range, so you might need to add more sensors throughout a building or utilize repeaters to achieve the coverage you need for your application. Additionally, the nature of how these networks interact can lead to excessive power consumption, particularly if you want fast communications, as in the case of an application for intelligent lighting. Mesh networks are a standard option since they are also very resilient, adept at locating the data transmission pathways that are both quick and reliable, and simple to set up.
Conclusion
The five types of IoT networks in this article are an absolute fit for most businesses looking for solutions to their problems in the Internet of Things. These networks are a combination of wired and wireless networks for IoT-connected devices.
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