The IoT Landscape: Adoption, Growth, and Security

[post_author_posts_link before=”Written by Dan Lapinski, ” after=””]

IoT, or the Internet of Things, is a hot topic in the technology world today and it will affect our lives substantially going forward. What is IoT and why should companies pay attention?  IoT relates to any physical device that can be connected to a computer network, either physically, or more commonly, via Wi-Fi. Mainly, IoT extends internet connectivity outside of the common devices we use today such as laptops, cell phones, and tablets. Some conventional examples of current IoT devices include newer vehicles, smart appliances, wearable technology and devices such as Amazon’s Alexa.

As the IoT trend begins to gain adoption and growth, some organizations and groups have begun to identify the various security concerns IoT introduces into a business technology environment. As more “connected” devices create a pathway into a corporate environment, more care and understanding needs to take place on how networks and corporate technology policies are designed and controlled. A growing concern is rising around the idea that hardware devices will be pervasive via the future expanding IoT infrastructure. This paradigm shift may allow hacking attempts to switch from being mostly “virtual” today, to persistent physical attacks on specific IoT hardware devices in the near future. The aforementioned theory places a big need on redefining business technology security holistically as businesses move into a future with IoT at the forefront.

What can Businesses Expect From The IoT Market Landscape?

Although challenging it may be to implement and design from a security perspective, IoT will bring a bevy of benefits to businesses in the future. From an information technology standpoint, IoT will be a main driver in automation. Now, and even more so in the future, thousands of applications will sync to IoT devices, including ERP, PSA, and email systems to name a few. These systems will speed up customer interaction and efficiency; from ordering goods and services, to processing maintenance for failing hardware in cars, computers, and other devices. The possibilities to apply this technology will be extensive in almost every vertical market and industry that exists. Experts predict that the IoT segment will generate anywhere from 4 to 11 trillion dollars by 2025, with B2B  applications capturing the lion’s share of those figures.

IoT is projected to grow by leaps and bounds in the coming years. Key figures suggest a surge in IoT devices from roughly 9 billion today, to approximately 55 billion in 2025. If one looks at other emerging technologies, such as AI (artificial intelligence) and how these technologies will converge, the possibilities for capturing value with IoT are remarkable.

Leave a Comment

WE'RE SERIOUS ABOUT YOUR EDUCATION!

Want the articles from our Learning Center delivered to your inbox? Stay up to date with the latest on cybersecurity, collaboration, data center, managed services, and more.

Scroll to Top