It is transforming the physical world as we know it by creating new and exciting opportunities that are hard to imagine. Through IoT, objects can communicate with each other and send notifications to our phones, becoming more specialized, personalized, and intelligent to meet our specific needs. Although we have only just begun this journey, IoT will greatly impact every aspect of our daily lives soon.

IOT in Healthcare

The Internet of Things (IoT) has significantly impacted the healthcare sector. Here are a few ways in which IoT has transformed healthcare:

Remote Patient Monitoring

The IoT devices can collect patient medical data and transmit it to healthcare providers in real-time, enabling them to monitor patients remotely and provide prompt care if necessary.

IOT in Medical Devices

IoT has enabled the creation of smart medical devices that can track, diagnose and treat patients effectively. For example, wearable devices can monitor vital signs and transmit data to healthcare providers for analysis.

IOT Inventory Management

IoT technology can track medical supplies and equipment, helping healthcare facilities to manage their inventory more efficiently.

Clinical Decision Support

IoT devices can provide real-time data to healthcare providers, allowing them to make informed clinical decisions and improve patient outcomes.

Predictive Maintenance IOT

IoT devices can monitor and predict when medical equipment will require maintenance, reducing the risk of equipment failure and improving patient safety.

Driving & Traffic

Today, IoT has significantly impacted our driving and traffic issues. For example:

Connected Cars:

IoT has allowed cars to become connected devices that can communicate with each other and with infrastructure such as traffic lights. This enhances the driving experience and helps to reduce traffic congestion and accidents.

Smart Traffic Management:

Devices such as sensors and cameras can monitor and analyze traffic patterns, allowing for real-time adjustments to be made to traffic lights and routing systems to improve traffic flow.

Predictive Maintenance:

IoT technology allows us to monitor the wear and tear of our vehicles, letting us know the predictive maintenance required and reducing the likelihood of breakdowns and accidents on the road.

Improved Road Safety:

IoT-enabled devices such as sensors, cameras, and alarms can detect potential road hazards, alerting drivers to potential danger and helping to prevent accidents.

Groceries

Nowadays, you can purchase refrigerators with built-in cameras, allowing you to view their contents even when you’re away from home. In the future, these refrigerators will be equipped with sensors that detect when you are running low on groceries such as milk, eggs, or butter and automatically send a shopping list to your phone. Retail stores may use this information to send reminders to purchase specific items based on your past buying behavior and general trends. This means that while you are shopping at the grocery store, you will receive reminders on your phone to make sure you never have to make an unnecessary trip back.

Home Security

The Internet of Things (IoT) has improved home security in several ways. Smart locks, cameras, and sensors allow homeowners to monitor and control access to their homes remotely. In the case of a security breach, homeowners can receive alerts and notifications on their smartphones, allowing them to respond to potential threats quickly.

Additionally, Internet of Things-enabled devices such as motion detectors, smoke and carbon monoxide sensors, and smart doorbells can detect and alert homeowners to potential hazards or intrusions in real time. Through automation, Internet of Things-enabled systems can also control lighting and adjust the temperature, creating the illusion that someone is home even when they are away. In this way, Internet of Things has made home security more efficient, convenient, and effective.

Energy Conservation

The Internet of Things has helped us conserve energy in our homes. Some ways in which Internet of Things has contributed to energy conservation include:

Smart Thermostats:

IoT-enabled smart thermostats allow homeowners to control their home’s temperature remotely, monitor usage patterns, and make adjustments to reduce energy consumption.

Energy Monitoring Devices:

IoT-enabled devices can monitor and track energy usage in real-time, providing insights into where and how energy can be optimized.

Smart Lighting:

IoT-enabled smart lighting systems can be programmed to turn lights on and off automatically based on occupancy, reducing energy consumption and cost.

Smart Appliances:

IoT-enabled appliances can be programmed to run during off-peak hours when energy demand is low, reducing energy consumption and cost.

In conclusion, Internet of Things has made energy conservation at home more accessible, efficient, and convenient. By providing real-time data and automation capabilities, Internet of Things has empowered homeowners to take control of their energy usage and make more informed decisions about how to conserve energy.

Wearable Technology

Wearable tech has received the most focus in Internet of Things discussions till now. Many wearable devices are in their 2nd or 3rd iteration, with improved designs and more compatibility with other systems. Ranging from sleep monitoring, and hearing aids to tracking physical activity during exercise, wearables have become more advanced. They can link to social media and gather data to analyze behavior and enhance our lives.

The IoT Devices and Mobile App Development

The Internet of Things and mobile app development form a seamless partnership. These technologies work together seamlessly to facilitate communication between machines and humans, leading to improved business efficiency and an enhanced user experience.

The market for IoT is expanding quickly worldwide and is expected to grow from $478.36 billion in 2022 to $2,465.26 billion by 2029. This substantial growth presents ample opportunities for mobile apps to expand their footprint within the IoT.

As various industries embrace digital transformation, the demand for smart connected devices and associated apps continues to grow.

IoT and the mobile app sector are closely linked, with Internet of Things providing opportunities for the app sector to expand into new areas and reach new heights.

The Final Say

If you’re looking for professional mobile app development services to feature IoT devices, hire a company like Hoff & Mazor. Hoff & Mazor is a leading provider of top-quality mobile app development service.

They use the latest IoT technologies and best practices to create apps that are easy to use, intuitive, and engaging.

Therefore, if you’re looking for a partner to help you create a powerful and impactful mobile app, look no further than Hoff & Mazor.

Also Read : A Guide to IoT Security: Protecting Your Connected Devices from Hackers

The post The Internet of Things (iot) Is Enhancing Our Lives In Many Ways. appeared first on Tech Research Online.

• IoT security is an important issue that requires a proactive approach to protect connected devices from hackers.
• There are many ways to better arm yourself against hackers and they include: using strong, unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, keeping devices and software up to date, and many more.
• Education is essential to understanding the risks of cyber-attacks and taking proactive steps to protect yourself.
• Simple habits like using strong passwords and keeping devices up to date can go a long way toward protecting your devices from hackers

The Internet of Things (IoT) continues to expand and become an increasingly integral part of our daily lives. These days, It’s more important than ever to ensure that we practice well-implemented IoT Security. Hackers constantly find new ways to infiltrate and exploit IoT devices, putting sensitive information and personal privacy at risk.

Hence, there is a need to protect internet-connected devices from cyber-attacks and unauthorized access by implementing IoT security. These devices, also known as IoT devices, include smart thermostats, security cameras, and smart appliances.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to IoT security, covering the most effective ways to protect your connected devices from possible threats. From understanding the common vulnerabilities of IoT devices to introducing strong passwords and transitioning to secure networks. We’ll cover key some IoT device security concepts and effective IoT security solutions.

What is IoT Security and What are The Threats It Protects Us from?

IoT security refers to the measures taken to protect internet-connected devices from cyber-attacks and unauthorized access. These include smart thermostats, security cameras, and smart appliances. These devices, which make up the Internet of Things (IoT), are susceptible to a large range of cyber threats such as malware attacks.

Many of these devices tend to cut corners to reduce costs, which leads to potential vulnerabilities. Naturally, this implies that the manufacturers of these devices have not taken enough steps to protect against IoT threats. As a result, these devices can be easily hack and used to gain access to networks and personal information.

In addition to traditional cyber threats, IoT devices also pose a physical security risk. Hackers can break into connected security cameras and use them to monitor unauthorized areas. Similarly, a smart lock could be hacked and used to gain unauthorized access to a building.

The risks of IoT security extend beyond individual devices and can also impact entire networks. For example, someone could intrude into a network of connected devices as a platform for a coordinated attack. This can cause widespread disruptions, outages, and serious damage to infrastructure.

(Source: Check Point)

What Are The 5 Ways To Protect Your Connected Devices From Hackers?

There are many different ways to add an extra layer of security against hackers for your IoT devices. Each way varies in effectiveness and cost. However, we have compiled the 5 that are most convenient to implement and boost your IoT security with actionable steps:

1. Avoid weak passwords
2. Make use of Two-Factor Authentication (2-FA)
3. Ensure that you always have the latest software updates installed
4. Avoid using unfamiliar networks
5. Use firewalls and antivirus software

We will look at each of these IoT device security concepts and effective IoT security solutions in detail. See how IoT security can be implemented in your connected devices to protect yourself from any cyber-attacks.

1. Avoid weak passwords

To start, one of the most effective ways to start working towards a secure IoT ecosystem is to protect your connected devices from hackers. This can be through using strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts. As a general guide, these passwords should be at least 8 characters long and have a mix of special characters.

This goes without saying, but avoid using common words or phrases as your passwords. These include “password123” or “qwerty,” as these are obviously accessible to hackers and do not take long for them to decrypt. Instead, consider using a password manager as a means to upgrade your password security.

2. Make use of Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

You can take actionable steps to protect your accounts by enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on all of your accounts. This buffers your IoT device security, by securing your devices across multiple platforms.

This increases your protection for your accounts against hackers, even if they are able to guess or steal your password. For example, let’s say that a hacker tries to log into your online banking account using your password. With 2FA enabled, the hacker would also need to have access to your phone or email in order to complete the login process.

In short, 2FA can provide an important layer of protection for your accounts. To enable 2FA, simply follow the instructions provided by your device or service, most of which are extremely user-friendly and easy to follow. Many popular websites and apps, such as Google, Facebook, and Twitter, offer 2FA as an option.

3. Ensure that you always have the latest software updates installed

One way to boost your IoT security is surprisingly simple and often overlooked. It’s essential to keep your connected devices up to date with the latest patches and updates. These updates usually include fixes for vulnerabilities and other security improvements, so installing them as soon as they are available is important.

For example, even in the home setting, let’s say that you own a smart thermostat that has a security vulnerability that allows hackers to gain access to your home network. If the manufacturer releases an update that fixes this vulnerability, it’s important to install the update as soon as possible to protect your device and your network.

To make this process easier, consider enabling automatic updates for your devices and software. This is a feature that is widely adopted by many products already. This way, you can be sure that your devices and software are always up-to-date and secure.

4. Avoid using unfamiliar networks

When using unfamiliar networks, such as public Wi-Fi hotspots, it’s important to be cautious and take steps to protect your data. Hackers can easily set up fake Wi-Fi hotspots that are designed to steal your personal information and login credentials. It is more common than you would think.

One way to safeguard your information while using public Wi-Fi is with a VPN, or Virtual Private Network. Essentially, a VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it more difficult for hackers to intercept your data. Additionally, it is best practice to refrain from accessing sensitive information or conducting financial transactions on public networks.

For example, it’s probably not a good idea to log into your online banking account or enter your credit card information while connected to a public Wi-Fi hotspot. Unless you really have to process sensitive information on a foreign network, consider using a personal hotspot or a secure, private network whenever possible.

5. Use firewalls and antivirus software

Firewalls and antivirus software are essential tools for protecting your devices and networks from cyber threats.

A firewall is a piece of software that you have most probably seen before on your devices. It is a system that regulates the flow of network traffic based on predefined security protocols. It can also assist in blocking unapproved access to your network and can be an effective way of preventing unauthorized individuals, such as hackers, from accessing your devices.

Antivirus software, on the other hand, is designed to detect and remove malware and other malicious software from your devices. As a widely used software, its popularity has dropped in recent times. However, this can help to safeguard your devices from attacks so it is still highly recommended to have one for your device ecosystem.

To ensure that your devices are protected, it’s important to install and enable both of these programs and keep them up to date. Many operating systems, such as Windows and macOS, include built-in firewalls and antivirus software. You may already have these tools installed on your devices. If not, there are many excellent third-party options available. Just be sure to do your research and choose a reputable program.

How To Better Arm Yourself Against Hackers

A great way to boost your IoT devices’ security from hackers is to educate yourself about the risks and take proactive steps to arm yourself against them. Here are a few ways to get started.

Firstly, a great way to get started is to stay informed about the latest threats and vulnerabilities. This will help you better understand the risks you face and the steps to protect yourself. Consider following security-focused blogs and news outlets, or subscribing to newsletters that cover the latest developments in the field.

Secondly, if you are serious about boosting your security knowledge and skills, consider taking a course or earning a certification in cybersecurity or IoT security. There are many online and in-person options available and we would recommend reading some reviews to see which best suits your needs. This can be a great way to learn from experts and gain hands-on experience with real-world scenarios.

Finally, consider joining online communities or forums where you can connect with others who are interested in IoT security. These groups can provide a wealth of knowledge and support as you learn more about how to protect your devices.

By educating yourself and taking proactive steps to arm yourself against hackers, you will be able to easily identify cyber threats and know the right courses of action to take against them.

Wrapping Up and Conclusion

In conclusion, it’s clear that IoT security is an important and complex issue that requires a proactive approach to protect your devices and data from cyber threats.

Whether you’re a home user or a business owner, there are many steps you can take to better arm yourself against hackers, including using strong, unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and keeping your devices and software up to date.

Furthermore, by educating yourself about the risks and taking proactive steps to protect yourself, you can help to keep your devices and networks safe and secure.

Don’t let hackers get the upper hand – take control of your security today and safeguard your connected devices for the future.

The post A Guide to IoT Security: Protecting Your Connected Devices from Hackers appeared first on Tech Research Online.

Introduction

The year 2020 is almost gone, we have broken the chains of lockdown but still; the danger is lurking. This year began with the unexpected pandemic that shook the world from its core. With more than 14 million global cases of COVID-19 positive, it had a great impact on the world economy.

The curfews in the Gulf States, lockdowns in other countries put businesses, physical roll-outs, and maintenance to delay. Even the IoT (Internet of Things) got delayed too because of the pandemic.

The world is interconnected with technological software, digital platforms like social media, and so on. Our world has become so interdependent on the internet that the threat of an internet outbreak sent chills downright.  

IoT is everywhere, not only in the online world of the internet but in another form of technology too, like smart apps, smart gadgets, and other technological tools that the public now massively relies on.

Sadly, the pandemic slowed down the manufacturing, distribution, and implementation of IoT projects. Amazon is the prime example of how the online orders increased and the number of misplaced orders increased too because of disturbed supply chain flow.  

Pave Ways for Companies to Evaluate Workforce Weakness 

Since the remote work began because of the lockdown, it was a first time experience for the majority of the people (besides freelancers).

It means that the remote work experience disturbed the productivity workflow ratio. HR representatives needed to carefully examine and evaluate the gap that occurred in remote work. 

It was meant to ensure that the pandemic didn’t hinder the productivity levels as the risk factor was high. For instance, if an employee tested positive, then he/she would need to isolate themselves for at least 2 weeks.

The absence of an employee can have a counter effect on the workflow too, so what happens if several other people are also infected by the virus at the same time? 

This could lead to a workforce shortage.

Consider this: what if the public transits temporarily stop? According to reports, a larger percentage of workers use public transit. This can lead to dire circumstances too if workplace accessibility is hard.

Keeping such factors highlighted in the document will let the companies tackle such issues. Using smart analytics, companies reopened their workplace and made preliminary adjustments following the SOPs amid the pandemic.  

This automatically highlighted the areas for improvement, a new process that must be changing, and so on. Pandemic highlighted such issues that indirectly interfered with the productivity levels and the regular workflow.  

Comprehensive IoT Security Solutions

Protect your assets, capital, and reputation effectively 360-degree coverage across the threat spectrum Easy to deploy and use Diverse support options Monitor, measure, and manage existing and
emerging threats and vulnerabilities Monetize IoT Security when this is offered as a service.

Organizations can Improvise the use of Cameras in more than just one way  

Companies are already prone to use camera for security measures. Each floor, exits, and main entrances are under surveillance eye.

In current times, companies can use cameras to make sure employees comply with the set rules for COVID-19. Companies also have the option to include AI (Artificial Intelligence) that would let people view the live cam feeds from internet-enabled devices.  

Paris, another great example, took the initiative to launch a three-month trial of the mask-detection software for public transits.

The sole purpose was to monitor the percentage of the personnel who wore the face masks. This helped the public health officials to keep notice of how conditions were progressing.  

IoT also functions as a solution in such cases. They could identify and track the individuals who violated the space and in the case if the number of people or meet-ups surpassed the permission table numbers at public places.

Such steps ensure that proper precautions are taken into account, as a remedy factor, IoT indeed can help in maintaining the required distancing for safety purposes.  

Use of Analytics to Explore New Doorways  

The use of analytics products is always crucial for companies. Especially when it’s about complete visibility, even if the company is operating understaffed.  

For instance, virtual analytics are essential for the system to have technical tabs on the flow rate while employees maintain social distancing.

In case of immediate emergencies, the data from a specialized platform can make it a lot easier to determine when a new on-site crew is required, and so on.

Industrial analytics are also helpful in pandemic circumstances, for instance, smart analytics options can be focused on the meatpacking industry.

This way the company assists the screening workers and visitors to stay at the top of sanitation needs. 

This helps them abide by the necessary practices to operate in these dire circumstances. For implementation, companies must have reliable data to make actionable strategies.

This way companies’ heads can rely on intelligent analytics to help them make an educated response and new policy to remove the problems.  

Waste Management is the New IoT  

Smart cities are the ones taking care of the waste and eco-cycling everything that can be reused. IoT is also making its way into city life, from the streetlights to parking to technologies in the offices, it is covering your immediate surroundings.

Installing smart sensors in devices helps waste management companies to pick up trash in places inaccessible to humans.  

As wireless networking technologies keep upgrading, the use of data analytics has also increased. This helped reduce the cost of the connected devices, so at this rate, the IoT market is showing promising growth even after the pandemic.  

Also Read: Impact of COVID-19 On The Influencer Marketing Industry

Being the center of the technological world for development, production, and management, IoT has induced a massive shift in the corporate world.

The more use of innovative ways has led to advanced tools that help waste management companies to grow and to remove the waste materials far easier than any human ever could.

Producing the technology that reduces human labor and shifts it into robotic labor has also helped reduce the number of incidents.  

Conclusion  

Pandemics have highlighted how we can make the world a better place if assisted with the technological tools in the right way.

Whether it is meant for manufacturing industries to power sensors for maintenance activities or the use of apps that help you monitor the progress of a workplace, companies can adopt IoT for smarter work.  

Author Bio: 

Enthusiast reading is what led Antonia Ava to become a creative writer for Marstranslation and passionately got interested in various dialects from all over the world. Being half Hispanic and half Mexican (from both sides of the family) her unique ethnicity led her to the road of learning languages and working as an interpreter and as a writer at hand.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The post Exploring the IoT Potential in the Post-COVID World appeared first on Tech Research Online.