Wireless Communications Security

3Internet of Things

3.1 Overview

The Internet of Things (IoT) environment is as versatile as the word ‘things’ just sounds. It basically refers to a vast set of all kinds of equipment connected to the Internet, including surveillance cameras, refrigerators, printers, self‐driving cars and telematics boxes which are able to communicate and perform actions. Remarkably, IoT also refers to yet‐to‐be‐seen devices that may be so innovative that we might not have a clue about their future form. The key idea of IoT is the facilitation of useful functions via the ‘always‐on’ connectivity everywhere and at any time, providing fluent and seamless user experiences, and making our lives easier in the transition from the information society towards the truly connected society.

This chapter discusses the principles of IoT by interpreting its typical definitions and analysing the suitability of it in different environments. The overall development of IoT is explained by investigating the evolution of M2M solutions and mobile connectivity, the Connected Living concept, and other relevant industry forum, alliance and standardization initiations. This chapter also presents technical descriptions of current key case examples of IoT in environments such as telemetry, automotive and e‐health. The aim is to identify trends and development of IoT for novelty and future solutions such as wearable devices, household appliances, industry solutions, robotics, self‐driving cars to understand their role ...