IoT Glossary

AI, or Artificial Intelligence, is a field of computer science focused on building intelligent machines that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as speech recognition, problem-solving, and decision making.

An API, or Application Programming Interface, is a set of tools, protocols, and routines that enable the building of software and applications. It defines how one application or system can access the services or data of another.

An Access Point is a networking device that acts as a communication hub for devices to connect to a wired network. It provides wireless access to the internet for devices within range.

An Actuator is a device that executes a desired physical action. In the context of IoT, it is a component that converts electronic signals into physical actions, such as opening or closing a valve or switching on a light.

Analytics is the computational analysis of data and statistics, used to gain insights into data and improve business outcomes for organizations.

An Application, or app, is a software program designed to perform a specific function or task for the user. In the context of IoT, it refers to software that can interact with and control connected devices to perform various functions.

Augmented Reality, or AR, blends digital information with the physical world to enhance or enrich the user's experience. In the context of IoT, AR can be used to visualize data generated by connected devices, providing a new level of interaction and insight.

Backup is a copy of data or software that is stored separately from the original in case the original is lost or damaged. In the context of IoT, backup is important to ensure that critical data and systems remain available even in the event of a failure or disruption.

Backup Power is a secondary power source that can provide power to an IoT system in the event of a failure or disruption in the main power supply. Backup power helps to ensure that critical systems and data remain available even during a power outage.

Bandwidth refers to the amount of data that can be transmitted over a network in a given amount of time. It determines the speed and capacity of a network and is critical for the smooth operation of IoT systems.

Big Data refers to extremely large data sets that can be analyzed to reveal patterns, trends, and associations, especially relating to human behavior and interactions. The technology used for Big Data is designed to handle large and complex data sets.

Bluetooth is a wireless technology that enables devices to communicate with each other over short distances. It is widely used in IoT devices, such as wearable technology, home automation systems, and smart devices.

Cloud Computing is a technology that allows users to access and use remote servers over the internet to store, process, and manage data and applications. In the context of IoT, cloud computing provides a scalable and flexible solution for managing the large amounts of data generated by connected devices.

A group of interconnected computers or nodes that work together to perform a common task. In the context of IoT, a cluster of connected devices can be used to perform tasks such as data processing and analytics, improving the efficiency and scalability of the system.

A Compute Node is a computer in a network that processes data and performs computational tasks. In the context of IoT, compute nodes play an important role in processing and analyzing the vast amounts of data generated by connected devices.

A Container is a type of software packaging that includes all the necessary components for an application to run, such as code, libraries, and system tools. In the context of IoT, containers provide a convenient and efficient way to deploy applications on connected devices.

Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting internet-connected systems, including hardware, software, and data, from attack, damage, or unauthorized access. In the context of IoT, cybersecurity is critical to ensure the security and privacy of sensitive data and systems.

A facility used to house computer systems and related components, such as telecommunications and storage systems. In the context of IoT, a data center can be used to store, process and manage the vast amounts of data generated by connected devices.

A large and centralized repository of raw and structured data that can be stored, processed and analyzed in its original form. In the context of IoT, a data lake provides a scalable and flexible solution for storing and processing the large amounts of data generated by connected devices.

The process of discovering patterns and knowledge from large amounts of data. In the context of IoT, data mining can be used to analyze and make sense of the vast amounts of data generated by connected devices, providing valuable insights for businesses and organizations.

A type of machine learning that uses algorithms to simulate the workings of the human brain, allowing computers to learn from and make predictions based on data. In the context of IoT, deep learning can be used to analyze and make sense of the large amounts of data generated by connected devices.

The process of organizing and managing connected devices in an IoT system, including monitoring, configuring and updating devices. Effective device management is critical for the reliable and secure operation of IoT systems.

Digital Twin refers to a virtual replica of a physical object or system that can be used for simulation, monitoring and analysis. Digital twins provide a digital representation of the real-world object, including its characteristics, behaviors, and data.

The processes, policies and procedures that are put in place to ensure the availability of critical systems and data in the event of a disaster or disruption. In the context of IoT, disaster recovery is important to ensure the continuity of operations and protect sensitive data in the event of a failure or disruption.

A distributed computing model where data processing and analysis occur at the edge of the network, close to the source of data. In the context of IoT, edge computing helps to reduce the amount of data sent to the cloud, improving the efficiency and responsiveness of the system.

A device located at the edge of the network that is responsible for collecting, processing and transmitting data to other parts of the system. In the context of IoT, edge devices play a crucial role in the collection and analysis of data from connected devices.

A computer system that is integrated into a larger product or device, performing specific tasks and functions. In the context of IoT, embedded systems can be found in a wide range of connected devices, from smart home devices to industrial machinery.

A type of software that helps organizations manage their business processes, including accounting, procurement, human resources and more. In the context of IoT, ERP systems can be integrated with IoT systems to provide real-time insights and information to support business decision making.

The ability of a system to continue operating even in the event of a failure or malfunction. In the context of IoT, fault tolerance is critical to ensure the reliable and secure operation of connected devices and systems.

A security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. In the context of IoT, firewalls play an important role in protecting connected devices and systems from unauthorized access and attack.

A device or software application that acts as an intermediary between two different systems or networks. In the context of IoT, a gateway can be used to connect edge devices to the cloud, allowing data to be transmitted and processed.

A network of satellites and ground-based receivers that provides location and time information. In IoTGPS is useful to track connected devices and provide location-based services.

A type of user interface that uses graphical elements and images to present information and allow users to interact with a system. In IoTa GUI can provide a user-friendly way to interact with and manage connected devices.

A design principle that aims to ensure that a system is always available and operationaleven in the event of a failure or disruption. In IoThigh availability is essential for the reliable and secure operation of connected devices and systems.

A cloud computing environment that combines public cloud services and private cloud infrastructure to meet an organization's needs. In IoTa hybrid cloud can provide the flexibility and scalability of public cloud services while ensuring the security and control of a private cloud.

A specialized branch of IoT that focuses on the application of connected devices in industrial and manufacturing settings.

A unique identifier assigned to a device connected to the internetused to identify and locate the device on the network. In the context of IoTIP addresses play a critical role in the communication and management of connected devices.

A network of physical devicesvehicleshome appliances and other items embedded with electronicssoftwaresensorsand connectivity which enables these objects to connect and exchange data.

A device or software application that acts as a bridge between edge devices and the cloudallowing data to be transmitted and processed. In the context of IoTan IoT gateway plays a critical role in the operation and management of connected devices and systems.

The process of scheduling and coordinating the execution of computer programs or tasks in a way that optimizes resource utilization and meets specific goals. In the context of IoTjob scheduling can be used to manage the execution of tasks and processes related to the collectionanalysisand processing of IoT data.

The process of managing encryption keys and certificates that are used to secure data in transit and at rest. In the context of IoTkey management is critical to ensure the security and confidentiality of data transmitted by connected devices.

An open-source platform for automating the deploymentscalingand management of containerized applications. In the context of IoTKubernetes can be used to manage the deployment and scaling of IoT applications and services.

The process of distributing workloads evenly across multiple resources in a way that maximizes resource utilization and minimizes response time. In the context of IoTload balancing can be used to distribute data processing and analysis tasks across multiple compute nodesimproving the efficiency and responsiveness of the system.

A type of wireless communication technology designed for IoT devicescharacterized by low power consumption and long-range communication capabilities. In the context of IoTLPWAN can be used to connect devices in remote or hard-to-reach locationsallowing data to be transmitted over long distances.

Low-Code refers to a platform or tool that allows users to create applications and software solutions with minimal coding. It provides a graphical interfacepre-built templates and drag-and-drop functionality to speed up the development process.

A lightweight messaging protocol for IoT devicesdesigned for low-bandwidthhigh-latency networks. MQTT is commonly used in IoT for communication and management of connected devicesenabling data to be transmitted and processed in real-time.

A type of artificial intelligence that enables systems to learn from data and improve performance without being explicitly programmed. Machine learning is useful in IoT for analyzing data generated by connected devices and making predictions based on the patterns identified.

A software architecture approach that structures an application as a collection of smallindependent services that communicate with each other through APIs. Microservices are ideal for building scalable and flexible IoT applications and services in an IoT ecosystem.

A software architecture approach that allows multiple tenants or users to share a single instance of a software applicationwith each tenant having access to its own isolated data and resources. Multitenancy in IoT can be used to support the deployment and management of IoT applications and services for multiple customers or organizations.

The set of measures and technologies used to protect networks and the data transmitted over them from unauthorized accessmanipulationand disruption. In IoTnetwork security is crucial for ensuring the confidentialityintegrityand availability of data transmitted by connected devices.

The process of dividing a network into smallerisolated parts to improve security and control access to network resources. Network segmentation in IoT can be used to isolate IoT devices and data from other network resourcesminimizing the risk of unauthorized access or manipulation.

A cloud-based service model that provides customers with access to network resources and capabilities over the internet. NaaS in IoT can be used to provide customers with network connectivity and communication capabilities for their IoT devices and applications.

The ability to build and develop applications and software solutions without having to write any code. No-Code platforms are useful for non-technical users to create complex IoT systems and applications without requiring technical expertise.

A flow-based programming tool that allows developers to build IoT applications and integrations using visual and drag-and-drop interfaces. Node-Red is an open source tool designed to be used with Node.js and is useful for building IoT applications and integrations.

A type of software that manages the hardware and software resources of a computer or device and provides a platform for the execution of applications. In IoToperating systems are essential for supporting the execution of IoT applications and services on connected devices.

The process of updating software or firmware on a device wirelesslywithout requiring physical access to the device. OTA updates are commonly used in IoT to update the software or firmware on connected devicesimproving their performancesecurityand functionality.

A technology that enables the transmission of both data and power over a single Ethernet cableeliminating the need for separate power cables. PoE can be used to power IoT devicessuch as sensors and actuatorsmaking it easier to install and manage these devices in remote or hard-to-reach locations.

Using data and machine learning algorithms to predict when equipment will fail and to schedule maintenance in advancebefore failure occurs. Predictive maintenance can be used to improve the reliability and uptime of machinery and equipmentreducing the costs associated with unscheduled downtime.

A type of cloud computing service that provides customers with access to dedicated computing resourcessuch as serversstorageand applicationswithin a private network. Private cloud can be used to host critical IoT applications and servicesproviding customers with higher levels of securitycontroland performance compared to public cloud.

A type of cloud computing service that provides customers with access to a shared pool of computing resourcessuch as serversstorageand applicationsover the internet. Public cloud can be used to host IoT applications and servicesproviding customers with a scalable and flexible platform for their IoT projects.

A measure of the level of performance and reliability provided by a network or servicesuch as the availabilitylatencyand throughput of the service. QoS is important for ensuring that IoT applications and services receive the required level of performance and reliabilityespecially for real-time and mission-critical applications.

The ability to process and analyze data in real-timeproviding near-instant insights and decision-making capabilities. Real-time analytics can be used to quickly identify trends and patterns in IoT dataand to respond to real-time events and anomalies in IoT systems.

A technology that enables real-time processing and analysis of large volumes of streaming datasuch as sensor data from IoT devices. Real-time streaming analytics can provide valuable insights into the operation of IoT systems and enable quick and effective decision-making.

The ability to monitor and manage IoT devices and systems from a remote locationtypically using a cloud-based platform or application. Remote monitoring can be used to improve the availabilityperformanceand security of IoT systemsand to reduce the cost and complexity of managing these systems.

A device that forwards data packets between networksenabling communication between different devices and systems. In the context of IoTrouters can be used to connect IoT devices to the internet or to other networksand to manage the flow of data between these devices.

A cloud-based service that offers a range of security solutions to protect customers' digital assets and information. In the context of IoTSECaaS provides customers with a flexible and scalable security solution for their IoT systems and devices.

Devices that measure and detect physical or environmental conditions and convert the measurements into digital signals that can be processed by IoT systems. Sensors are critical for enabling IoT systems to collect and transmit data from the physical world.

A cloud-based service that provides customers with access to software applications over the internetwithout the need for software installation or management on their own infrastructure. In the context of IoTSaaS provides customers with a flexible and scalable platform for developing and deploying IoT applications and services.

A cloud-based service that provides customers with access to a shared pool of storage resources over the internet. In the context of IoTSTaaS offers a scalable and flexible solution for storing and managing large volumes of IoT data.

A frequency band used by many IoT devices and networkstypically in the range of 868 MHz or 915 MHz. Sub-1 GHz offers longer range and lower power consumption compared to other frequency bandsmaking it ideal for IoT applications and devices that require long-distance communication.

Telemetry refers to the automated process of measuring and transmitting data from remote devices. This data can be used to monitor and control equipmentas well as gather information about their performance.

An open-source IoT platform for managing and analyzing IoT devices and dataproviding a range of featuressuch as device managementdata visualizationand rule engine.

A set of technologies and standards that enable deterministic and real-time communication over Ethernet networksproviding low-latency and high-reliability communication for mission-critical IoT applications.

UPnP is a set of protocols that allow devices to be connected and communicate with each other over a network. UPnP enables automatic discovery of devicesas well as their control and configuration.

UDP is a network protocol used for transmitting data across the internet. Unlike TCPUDP does not guarantee reliable data transmission and does not require a connection between devices.

A virtual machine is a software simulation of a physical computer. It allows multiple operating systems to run on a single physical serverproviding hardware abstraction and isolation.

VPC is a private network that operates within a public cloud infrastructure. It provides a secure environment for data storage and computingwhile still allowing access to public cloud services.

VPN is a technology that creates a secureencrypted connection between two or more devices over a public or shared network. VPNs are used to protect privacy and secure internet connections.

WUI refers to a user interface that is accessed through a web browser. It allows users to interact with a system or application over the internetwithout the need for local software installation.

A WAN is a largegeographically dispersed network that connects smallerlocal area networks (LANs). WANs are used to connect computers and other devices across a large areasuch as a cityregion or even multiple countries.

XaaS refers to a delivery model in which a product or service is provided over the interneton a subscription basis. This model allows users to access the product or service without having to make a large upfront investment.

YAML is a data serialization language that is used for storing and exchanging data. It is designed to be easy to read and writemaking it a popular choice for configuration files and data exchange between systems.

Zigbee is a wireless communication protocol used for the Internet of Things. It is designed for low-powerlow-data rate applicationsand provides a secure and reliable means of communication for IoT devices.