IoT Connectivity

The meaning of IoT connectivity

Connectivity ensures that IoT devices and applications are able to communicate with each other. This enables data to be exchanged between devices, gateways and networks, allowing companies to monitor and control their IoT applications. The industrial IoT connectivity, a specific field of application, allows the networking of machines, sensors and systems.

Without connectivity, the functioning of IoT applications would not be possible. It’s the basis for all data transmissions and analyses, which is necessary for business decisions.

The key aspects of connectivity for IoT applications

So-called IoT connectivity solutions consist of several modules that work together to provide smooth communication and functionality.

• Sensors: Sensors on physical objects collect operational data from their environment and send it to connected devices and IoT platforms.

• IoT SIM cards: IoT SIM cards connect devices to the mobile network and transmit data to IoT platforms. They are specially designed for M2M communication and offer a high level of security and flexibility.

• IoT coverage: A stable network is crucial for the reliable transmission of data. This includes both wireless and cable-bound networks.

• IoT platform: An IoT platform provides the necessary infrastructure and tools for managing IoT devices, analyzing data and developing applications. It allows a centralized IoT connectivity management for all connected devices.

In addition, consider the following requirements for IoT connectivity solutions for enterprises:

• Coverage/Range: IoT connectivity must be able to maintain stable communication over long distances.

• Bandwidth: The bandwidth of connectivity solutions must be sufficient to transmit the necessary data volume, especially for IoT applications with high data usage.

• Energy efficiency: Connectivity services must be energy efficient to ensure a long lifetime for IoT devices.

• Power consumption: A low power consumption is essential to maximize the operating time of IoT devices.

• Cost: The cost of IoT connectivity must be economically viable to enable widespread implementation.

• Network throughput: The data throughput must be high enough to transmit the required data volume, quickly and reliably.

• Mobility: Connectivity should be able to maintain a constant connection for mobile IoT devices.

• Latency: Low latency in IoT connectivity is important for applications that require real-time data.

• Penetration: Signals must be able to pass through obstacles such as walls or other physical barriers.

• Redundancy: In case of a failing system, redundant IoT connectivity solutions ensure a stable connection.

The most common IoT connectivity technologies

There are various technologies that cover different requirements and IoT use cases:

• Cellular networks: Cellular technologies such as 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G offer extensive coverage and high data speed. They are particularly suitable for IoT applications that require high mobility and broad network coverage. However, the disadvantages are the higher costs and higher energy consumption.

• LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network): LoRaWAN is a low-power, long-range wireless technology, ideal for applications where small amounts of data need to be transmitted over long distances. LoRaWAN offers low operating costs, but limited bandwidth.

• WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network): Wireless LAN offers high data speed and a reliable connection in limited areas, well suited for indoor spaces and IoT applications that need to transmit large amounts of data. The disadvantages of this are the limited range and higher power consumption.

• Bluetooth: Bluetooth is an energy-saving technology suitable for shorter distances. It is often used in portable IoT devices and wearables, and is a cost-effective and suitable solution for transmitting small amounts of data.

• ZigBee: ZigBee is a wireless network technology developed for low energy consumption and low data rates, suitable for home automation and industrial IoT applications. ZigBee offers good network coverage in local networks.

• Ethernet: Ethernet is a cable-bound technology that offers high data speeds and reliable connections, often used for industrial IoT applications where a stable connection is required. The disadvantage is the limited mobility due to the cables required for a connection.

• Powerline: This type of IoT connectivity service uses existing power lines for transmitting data, with no additional cables needing to be laid. Powerline offers a stable connection and high cost efficiency, but interferences in the power grid can affect the performance of devices.

• M-Bus (Meter-Bus): M-Bus is a cable-bound communication standard for remote reading of utility meters. It is suitable for energy and water supply applications and, though the data rate is low, M-Bus offers reliable and cost-effective data transmission.

• Wireless M-Bus: Wireless M-Bus is also used for remote readings of utility meters and offers all the benefits of wireless communication. Wireless M-Bus is energy-efficient and cost-effective, but the range is limited.

Important security aspects of IoT connectivity

Connectivity services are vulnerable to various threats and weak points. The main threats include data leaks, unsafe communication and insufficient protection against cyber attacks. These weak points often result from outdated software, lack of encryption and a lack of authentication.

The following measures ensure a secure and confidential IoT connectivity while minimizing threats:

• Encryption: Data transmitted between IoT devices should be encrypted to prevent eavesdropping and data manipulation.

• Authentication: Strong authentication mechanisms guarantee that only authorized devices and users have access to the network.

• Firewalls: Firewalls monitor the data traffic and block malicious activity before it reaches the network.

• Firmware updates: Regular software updates close security gaps and increase the protection against new threats.

• Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): A IDS detects and reports suspicious activities in the network, and enables quick reactions to potential attacks.

• VPNs (Virtual Private Networks): VPNs protect IoT data by creating a secure connection over the internet.

• Certificate-based security: Certificates provide an additional layer of security by validating devices and data.