🌐 What is IoT (Internet of Things)?
IoT (Internet of Things) refers to a network of physical devices (called “things”) that are embedded with sensors, software, and connectivity to collect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the Internet.
🔧 Examples of IoT Devices:
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Smartwatches (monitor health)
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Smart refrigerators (track food)
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Smart home systems (control lights, fans, AC)
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Industrial sensors (monitor machinery)
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Connected cars (real-time tracking)
🌍 Impacts of IoT
✅ Positive Impacts:
| Area | Impact |
|---|---|
| Smart Homes | Convenience, energy savings, and remote control of devices. |
| Healthcare | Remote patient monitoring, wearable health trackers. |
| Agriculture | Smart irrigation, weather monitoring, soil sensors. |
| Industry (IIoT) | Predictive maintenance, efficiency, automation. |
| Transportation | Real-time GPS, vehicle diagnostics, smart traffic management. |
| Environment | Air quality sensors, disaster detection systems. |
❗️Challenges/Negative Impacts:
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Security and privacy issues
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Complexity in implementation
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Dependence on network connectivity
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Data overload
🆚 How is IoT different from Digitalization?
| Aspect | IoT | Digitalization |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Technology that connects physical devices to the internet. | The process of converting analog processes into digital ones. |
| Focus | Connecting and automating physical objects. | Transforming entire business/workflow using digital technologies. |
| Example | Smart bulb that can be controlled via phone. | Using an app instead of paperwork in a hospital. |
| Technology Used | Sensors, microcontrollers, communication protocols. | Cloud computing, mobile apps, ERP, AI, IoT, etc. |
| Scope | More specific — one part of digitalization. | Broader — includes IoT, AI, data analytics, and more. |
🎯 Summary:
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IoT = “Things” connected to the Internet that gather and exchange data.
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Impact: Makes homes, cities, and industries smarter and more efficient.
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Digitalization is a bigger transformation that may use IoT as a tool, but also includes other technologies and changes in how work is done.