Internet of Things Enabling Technologies

The Internet of Things (IoT) is the set of networks and new technologies whose purpose is that everyday things are connected to the Internet and can send and receive data between them and with us.

To increase its applications, IoT works with technologies such as Big Data, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, Cloud and Edge Computing, Augmented Reality and 5G.

Big Data

Big Data is a set of data whose size, complexity and velocity make it difficult to capture, manage, process and analyze using conventional tools. Its complexity is mainly due to the unstructured nature of much of the data generated by modern technologies, which is why it must be combined with structured data from more conventional technology.

Although there is no particular size that stipulates whether a given data set is considered Big Data, most analysts refer to data sets ranging from 30-50 Terabytes to several Petabytes.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence is the set of technologies that serve to simulate capabilities unique to humans. Machines are able to mimic the cognitive functions associated with human minds, such as; learning, decision making and problem solving, as well as the performance of various tasks, having the quality to improve from the information gathered.

Along with Big Data, AI is needed to process the huge amount of connected things and make sense of the data transmitted from these devices.

Blockchain

The blockchain is a type of network whose distribution facilitates the development of technologies such as cryptocurrency. This technology offers the possibility of creating content that is distributed through a network of computers without the need for a server or central database.

The power of the nodes in the network is used to introduce information and protect it against unauthorized modifications. The blockchain offers the possibility of achieving very high levels of security compared to other technologies.

Cloud and Edge Computing

Cloud and Edge Computing generates information exchange between servers in the cloud and devices connected to the internet. Edge is where people, devices or things exchange data with the network.

Cloud content and service providers are investing heavily in Edge Computing, and even companies in other industries have started to invest in it.

Augmented reality 

Augmented reality technology is a resource that offers interactive experiences to people, based on a combination of two dimensions: virtual and physical, through the use of digital devices.

It can be used to visualize data from many sensors simultaneously, interleaving relevant and actionable information about the environment.

5G technology 

5G, due to its advances in speed and latency over 4G technology, has a promising future in applications such as autonomous vehicles, as it could allow vehicles to safely interact with each other, with road infrastructure and with humans.

From autonomous vehicles to smart cities, Industry 4.0 to remote robotic surgery, many of the innovations and new services that are emerging make use of 5G.