Glossary · IIoT, data and AI
Internet of Things (IoT)
Also known as: IoT
German: Internet der Dinge (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) is the network of physical objects equipped with sensors, software and communication interfaces that allow them to collect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet or other networks. IoT vocabulary is standardized in ISO/IEC 20924 and a reference architecture in ISO/IEC 30141.
- IIoT
In one sentence
The Internet of Things is the network of physical objects with sensors, software and connectivity that collect and exchange data.
Example
Building sensors report room temperature and occupancy to a platform that adjusts heating; the same principles, applied to machines, form the IIoT.
How it applies
- Engineering: IoT systems consist of devices, connectivity, platforms and applications. Industrial projects usually draw on the same technologies but add requirements for availability and integration with automation systems.
- Security: Many IoT devices have long lifetimes and limited update mechanisms. Requirements for products with digital elements, such as those of the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), apply to connected products placed on the EU market.
- Documentation: Connected products need information on setup, network requirements, data collected, updates and end-of-support dates.
IoT vs. IIoT
IoT is the general concept across consumer, building, health and industrial applications. Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is its industrial application with stricter requirements for reliability, lifetime, safety and OT security.