This week, we look at a hot topic in the world of IT: The internet of things. According to Wikipedia, IoT “describes the network of physical objects… embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies… connecting and exchanging data with other devices and systems over the Internet.”
We all interact with IoT in our daily lives via smart phones and tablets. Many now have smart security solutions in their homes, thus allowing them to switch off alarms or check cameras remotely. Whatever your viewpoint, IoT is growing steadily, and now that Covid-19 has changed how many live their lives, it might be IT’s most useful asset.
Of course, as with any new technology, there are cyber security risks that must be addressed. IoT vastly increases the playing field for would-be cyber-criminals. Achieving compliance in IoT security then is a must for those embracing it.
We used a popular definition to describe IoT above, but let’s now take a closer look. Imagine vast swathes of data being transmitted between multiple devices over huge networks and you have a good idea.
7 Examples of IoT that you should be aware of:
• Appliances
• Wireless internet
• Home security systems
• Wearable devices
• Smart cars
• Autonomous farming equipment
• Smart factory equipment
The full list of examples is of course much longer. It is also probably no longer exhaustive once you have reached the end of this sentence. Many believe that we will arrive at a stage where we are no longer conscious of IoT. That there may be so many interconnected objects around and on us, we simply embrace it as part of our own presence.
We are part of theICEway ecosystem, along with eTestware and CRIBB Cyber Security. The latter is an officially recognised IoT Certification body, and their experienced professionals are therefore qualified to help you achieve compliance – contact them here.
Automation
• No need for human intervention;
• Consistency in quality and control of daily tasks.
• Automation also reduces the need for employees, meaning less jobs.
Communication
• IoT allows devices to stay connected and to communicate better, thus leading to higher quality control;
• Robust communication between devices subsequently means that transparency in processes can be achieved.
• As our dependence upon technology grows, there are those who believe then that basic human interaction skills will be reduced across society.
Cost savings
• Energy and resources are used at optimum levels;
• IoT solves issues with bottlenecks and system damage / breakdowns.
Greater efficiency
• Machine interaction is more efficient than human interaction;
• IoT allows people to focus on other tasks.
• More technology means that software / hardware failures are magnified and can be disastrous.
Instantly available information
• Data Access is greatly expedited, thus simplifying the decision-making process;
• This then has a knock-on effect to the overall management function.
• More data processing leads to a greater need for robust cyber security frameworks
Continuing on the subject of cyber security, more devices connected to the internet means more information being available. It also means that there are more risks which need to be addressed, such as device hijacking and spoofing. To help with IoT security compliance, the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) established a key technical standard: ETSI EN 303 645.
The internet of things has become one of the most important technologies of this, or indeed any other, century. Affordable, low-cost sensor technology combined with greater connectivity, cloud-based platforms and machine learning / AI has allowed it to flourish.
The coronavirus pandemic has led to a huge shift in the way many of us behave. After (collectively) more than a year of lockdown restrictions, a lot of people have established completely different routines and habits. Outlooks have changed. For example, the idea of mixing with large crowds again is not one relished by all. There were close to 15,000 retail store closures in the UK between March 2020 and February 2021. Online shopping might not be for everyone, but this fact alone suggests that activity in this area will only increase.
Once all or most restrictions are lifted, it is clear that IoT is set to play a key role. On theICEway, we have worked with clients from the cruise industry for many years. We thought then that a look at one example of the use of IoT in cruise might shed further light on that role…
Their Royal-class cruise ship, the Majestic Princess, features the OceanMedallion wearable device. This IoT solution allows for:
• Touchless embarkation and disembarkation
• Keyless room entry
• Contactless commerce
• Food, beverages and retail items delivered anywhere on board
A more personalised guest experience is also now one with enhanced physical distancing, thus supporting new health protocols.
The IT experts from ICE are proud to provide IT solutions and support to the cruise industry. We also help clients in travel and healthcare, and we will look again at IoT in the months ahead from their perspective.