Internet of Things (IoT): Evolution, Architecture & Use Cases

Posted on Feb 2, 2026 in Communications Electronic Engineering

IoT Definition, Evolution and Business Scope

m1) define IOT , explain in detail the evolution of IOT and its business scope with suitable example?

Internet of Things (IoT) means connecting physical devices like sensors, machines, and appliances to the internet so they can collect data, communicate with each other, and operate automatically with minimal human involvement.

Evolution of the Internet and IoT

Pre-Internet: Devices worked independently and manually with no internet connection. Example: calculators, manual machines.

Internet of Content: The internet was mainly used to read or view information. Example: websites, online articles, digital books.

Internet of Services: The internet started providing online services and transactions. Example: online banking, shopping, email services.

Internet of People: The internet connected people for communication and interaction. Example: social media, video calls, messaging apps.

Internet of Things: The internet connects physical devices that can sense, send data, and act automatically. Example: smart lights, fitness bands, smart traffic signals.

Business Scope of IoT

m1) define IOT , explain in detail the evolution of IOT and its business scope with suitable example? (continued)

  • Enhanced efficiency
  • Improved customer service
  • Enhanced safety and security
  • Cost savings
  • New revenue streams
  • Enhanced decision making
  • Better risk management
  • Increased agility

Example: smart factory, smart home, etc.

IoT Characteristics and Features

m1) list and explain the major characteristics and feature of IOT systems?

  1. Connectivity — IoT devices are connected to the internet or a network to exchange data.
  2. Sensing — Sensors collect data such as temperature, humidity, motion, or pressure from the environment.
  3. Data processing — Collected data is processed using software, edge devices, or cloud platforms to extract useful information.
  4. Automation — IoT systems can operate automatically and perform actions without human intervention.
  5. Remote monitoring and control — Devices can be monitored and controlled from anywhere using the internet.
  6. Scalability — IoT systems can easily add or remove devices as the system grows.
  7. Interoperability — Different IoT devices and systems can work together using standard protocols.
  8. Real-time operation — IoT systems provide real-time or near real-time data and responses.
  9. Security and privacy — Protection of devices and data using authentication, encryption, and access control.
  10. Energy efficiency — IoT devices are designed to use low power, especially battery-operated devices.

IoT and Embedded Systems Relationship

m1)Describe the relation between IOT and embedded system? explain how embedded devices enable IoT applications?

IoT and embedded systems are closely related. An embedded system is a small computer built into a device to perform a specific task. IoT devices are created using embedded systems. The embedded system controls sensors, processes data, and connects the device to the internet. Without embedded systems, IoT devices cannot work.

How embedded devices enable IoT applications

  1. Sensing — Embedded devices collect data such as temperature, motion, and light using sensors.
  2. Processing — They process raw sensor data into useful information.
  3. Communication — They send and receive data using Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks.
  4. Control — They control actuators like motors, relays, and valves.
  5. Real-time operation — They respond quickly, which is important for healthcare and industrial systems.
  6. Low power usage — They consume less power and are suitable for battery-powered devices.
  7. Reliability — They operate continuously and reliably for long periods.
  8. Security — They support basic security features like authentication and encryption.
  9. Edge computing — They process data locally to reduce delay and dependence on the cloud.
  10. Low cost — They are small and inexpensive, allowing large-scale IoT deployment.

Major Challenges in Implementing IoT Systems

m1) explain in detail major challenges faced in implementing iot systems?

  1. Security — IoT devices can be hacked if security is weak.
  2. Privacy — Personal data can be misused if not protected.
  3. Interoperability — Devices from different companies may not work together.
  4. Scalability — Handling many devices at the same time is difficult.
  5. Data handling — IoT creates a lot of data that is hard to store and process.
  6. Network issues — Poor or slow internet affects IoT performance.
  7. Power usage — Battery-powered devices need long battery life.
  8. Cost — IoT systems can be expensive to set up.
  9. Maintenance — Managing and updating many devices is challenging.
  10. Legal issues — IoT must follow laws and regulations in different jurisdictions.

Role of Sensors and Actuators in IoT

m1)explain the role of sensors and actuators in IOT with suitable examples?

Role of sensors in IoT

Sensors are input devices used in IoT systems. They detect physical or environmental changes and convert them into electrical signals or data that can be processed by embedded devices.

Common functions of sensors

  • Measure physical parameters
  • Collect real-time data
  • Send data to the controller or cloud

Examples of sensors in IoT

Temperature sensor — Motion sensor — Light sensor — Humidity sensor

Role of actuators in IoT

Actuators are output devices in IoT systems. They receive control signals from the system and perform physical actions based on processed sensor data.

Common functions of actuators

  • Convert electrical signals into physical action
  • Control devices or machines
  • Automate responses

Examples of actuators in IoT

Motor — Relay — Valve — Buzzer

Suitable example

Smart irrigation system: A soil moisture sensor checks soil condition. Data is processed by the controller. An actuator (water valve) turns ON or OFF automatically.

IoT System Architecture and Layer Functions

m1)illustrate the architecture of an IOT system showing the functions of each layer?

Perception layer (sensing layer)

  • This is the lowest layer of the IoT system.
  • It contains sensors and actuators.
  • It senses physical parameters like temperature, humidity, light, motion, and pressure.
  • It converts real-world signals into digital data.

Transport layer (network layer)

  • This layer transfers data from sensors to servers or the cloud.
  • It provides communication between devices and processing systems.
  • It uses wired or wireless technologies like Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, and cellular networks.

Processing layer (middleware layer)

  • This layer stores and processes data received from devices.
  • It performs data analysis and decision making.
  • It manages IoT devices and services using cloud or software platforms.

Application layer

  • This layer provides services to end users.
  • It displays processed data in the form of apps or dashboards.
  • It allows users to monitor and control IoT devices.

Business layer (management layer)

  • This is the topmost layer of IoT architecture.
  • It manages the overall IoT system.
  • It generates reports, analytics, and usage information.
  • It supports business decisions and system optimization.

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN) in IoT

m1)describe the working of wireless sensor network in IoT applications???

Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) is an important part of IoT systems. It consists of many small sensor nodes that collect data from the environment and send it wirelessly for processing and decision making.

Working of WSN in IoT applications

  1. Sensor nodes deployment — Many sensor nodes are placed in an area. Each node has a sensor, controller, wireless unit, and power source.
  2. Data sensing — Sensors collect data like temperature, humidity, light, or motion.
  3. Data processing at node — The node processes data to remove noise and reduce size.
  4. Wireless communication — Data is sent wirelessly to nearby nodes or a gateway.
  5. Multi-hop data transmission — Data passes through other nodes if the gateway is far.
  6. Data aggregation — Nodes combine data to save energy and reduce traffic.
  7. Gateway node operation — The gateway collects data from all sensor nodes.
  8. Data transfer to cloud — The gateway sends data to the cloud through the internet.
  9. Data analysis and decision making — The cloud analyzes data and makes decisions.
  10. Action and response — Commands are sent to actuators to perform actions automatically.

IoT vs M2M: Key Differences

m1) differentiate between IOT and M2M communication with suitable example?

IoT (Internet of Things)

  1. IoT connects devices, systems, and users through the internet.
  2. It supports device-to-device, device-to-cloud, and user interaction.
  3. Data is processed and stored mainly in the cloud.
  4. IoT systems are highly scalable and flexible.
  5. IoT enables intelligent decision making and automation.

Example: Smart home system where sensors send data to the cloud and users control devices using a mobile app.

M2M (Machine to Machine)

  1. M2M enables direct communication between machines.
  2. It mainly supports machine-to-machine communication only.
  3. Data processing is usually local or at a central server.
  4. M2M systems have limited scalability and flexibility.
  5. M2M works on predefined rules with minimal intelligence.

Example: An ATM machine sending transaction details directly to the bank server.

IoT System Management: Need and Components

m1)explain the need for IOT system management and describe the components involved?

Need for IoT system management

  1. To monitor devices — Helps check the status and health of IoT devices.
  2. To manage many devices — Allows centralized control of thousands of devices.
  3. To ensure security — Protects devices and data from attacks.
  4. To update devices — Enables remote firmware and software updates.
  5. To reduce failures — Detects problems early and avoids breakdowns.

Components involved in IoT system management

  1. IoT devices — Sensors and actuators that collect data and perform actions.
  2. Device management system — Registers, configures, monitors, and updates devices.
  3. Communication network — Transfers data between devices, gateways, and servers.
  4. Cloud platform — Stores and processes data and supports applications.
  5. User interface — Dashboard or mobile app to monitor and control IoT systems.

Software Defined Networking in IoT

m1) discuss the concept of software defined networking (SDN) in IOT and its benefits up to 3 levels?

Software Defined Networking (SDN) separates network control from hardware. A central controller manages data flow between IoT devices, gateways, and cloud using software.

In traditional networks, each device controls its own traffic. In SDN, a central controller manages the entire network and decides how data should flow between IoT devices, gateways, and cloud servers.

Benefits of SDN in IoT (3 levels)

  • Device level — Reduces device complexity, saves energy, and improves device performance.
  • Network level — Centralized traffic control, easy scalability, and better security.
  • Application level — Faster application deployment, better quality of service, and support for real-time applications.