What is IoT?

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of interconnected physical objects embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies that enable them to collect and exchange data over the Internet. This network allows these devices, also known as "smart" devices, to interact with each other, automate processes, and make data-driven decisions, ultimately improving efficiency and enhancing user experiences across various industries and environments.

IoT Devices:
IoT devices are at the core of the IoT ecosystem. They can be found in various forms, each equipped with specific sensors and communication capabilities that allow them to interact with other devices and systems. Examples include smart home devices, wearable technology, and industrial IoT (IIoT) machines and vehicles.

Sensors in IoT: 
Sensors are critical to IoT devices, acting as the interface between the physical world and digital data processing systems. They collect data from their environment, which can then be used to drive automated decisions and actions. Common IoT sensors include temperature, proximity, accelerometers, and light sensors.

Communication Protocols:
To transmit data, IoT devices use a variety of communication protocols. Choosing the right protocol depends on the specific use case, including range, power consumption, and data transmission requirements. Frequently used IoT communication protocols include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Zigbee, Z-Wave, LoRaWAN, and others.

Cloud Integration in IoT
The cloud plays a crucial role in IoT by providing storage, processing power, and analytics capabilities. Data collected by IoT devices is often sent to cloud platforms, where it is processed and analyzed to derive insights. Cloud integration enables scalable data storage, real-time processing, and access to advanced machine learning and AI tools. Popular cloud platforms for IoT include AWS IoT, Microsoft Azure IoT, and Google Cloud IoT, which offer robust infrastructure for managing and visualizing IoT data.