Benefits and Impacts of the Internet of Things in Life 2023

In the development of technology that exists today, many jobs utilize the internet to facilitate their work. Some use the internet to search for information, some use the internet to communicate, and even some use the internet for entertainment purposes. With the role of the internet being quite large, the internet has begun to be utilized in everyday equipment, namely the Internet of Things (IoT).

In today’s digital era, we often hear the term “Internet of Things” or IoT. This concept has become an essential part of our daily lives, but what exactly is IoT and why is it so crucial in the development of modern technology? Let’s explore further.

What is the Internet of Things (IoT)? 

According to the website SMB Telkom University, Internet of Things (IoT) or Internet for Everything is a technology concept that extends the benefits of the Internet and allows users to communicate with objects around them using sensors or other technologies. In other words, users can connect with objects using the internet. In simple terms, how the Internet of Things (IoT) works involves smart devices, the internet, and remote controls.

The Internet of Things refers to the network of physical devices connected to the internet, allowing them to collect and exchange data. This includes everything from simple devices like temperature sensors to complex systems like autonomous vehicles. With IoT, these objects can communicate with each other, provide useful information, and even perform actions automatically.

For example, you may have a smart thermostat in your home. This thermostat can learn from your habits and adjust the temperature automatically for comfort and energy efficiency. Additionally, this thermostat can be accessed through your smartphone, allowing you to change the temperature remotely. This is one example of how IoT can improve comfort and efficiency in our lives.

With the Internet of Things (IoT), we can now find various smart devices connected to the internet in everyday life. One example of an Internet of Things (IoT) device is a smart TV. Smart TVs allow users to search using their voice, adjust the volume using their smartphone, and move the screen display from their smartphone to their smart TV.

In popular culture, the Internet of Things is shown in the Detective Conan series episode 898 and the 22nd Detective Conan film titled Zero of Enforcer. In the Detective Conan series, it is told that Azusa uses an Internet of Things (IoT) device in the form of an electric kettle to boil water before arriving at the cafe. Meanwhile, the Internet of Things (IoT) is used by the perpetrator to trigger a large explosion in the Detective Conan film. In addition, the perpetrator in the film also makes several IoT devices malfunction. 

Key Components of IoT

There are several main components that make up the IoT ecosystem:

Devices and Sensors: These are physical components that collect data from the environment. Examples include temperature sensors, cameras, and other measuring instruments.

Connectivity: IoT devices need to be connected to the internet to be able to send and receive data. This connection can be via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, or a cellular network.

Platform IoT: This is a software that manages and analyzes data collected from devices. This platform allows users to monitor and control their IoT devices.

User: Users are people who interact with IoT systems, either through smartphone applications or other user interfaces.

What are the benefits of the Internet of Things (IoT)? 

Some of the benefits of using the Internet of Things (IoT), including connectivity and automation. With the Internet of Things (IoT), various smart devices can be controlled from a smartphone through a connection between the smart device and the smartphone. In addition, the Internet of Things (IoT) allows users to set automation on Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

IoT has various benefits that make it very attractive for adoption in various fields:

Efficiency: With better automation and data processing, IoT can help reduce operational costs. For example, in industry, connected machines can monitor performance and perform preventive maintenance before failure occurs.

Better Decision Making: Data collected from IoT devices can provide valuable insights for decision-making. For example, traffic data from road sensors can be used to optimize transportation routes.

Comfort: IoT takes convenience to the next level. With smart devices in the home, such as lights that can be controlled via an app, users can control their environment easily.

Security: In the security sector, IoT systems such as surveillance cameras and alarms can help improve the protection of homes and businesses.

IoT Challenges and Risks

One of the impacts of using the Internet of Things (IoT) is the security risk. Internet of Things (IoT) devices can be hacked by irresponsible people and cause the device to not function properly. Thus, companies that produce Internet of Things (IoT) devices need to ensure the security of their products. In addition, the use of the Internet of Things (IoT) can increase dependence on the internet. If the internet connection is disconnected, the Internet of Things (IoT) device cannot be used.

While IoT has many benefits, there are also challenges and risks to be aware of:

Data Security: With so many connected devices, the risk of data leaks and cyberattacks is increasing. It is important for users and device manufacturers to ensure that data is well protected.

Interoperability: Many IoT devices on the market cannot always communicate with each other. Standardization is essential to ensure that devices from different manufacturers can work together.

Privacy: Continuous data collection can raise privacy concerns. Users need to be aware of what information their devices collect and how that data is used.

Dependence on Technology: With the increasing use of IoT devices, we may become too dependent on technology. If there is a disruption in the system, it can cause major problems.

IoT Applications in Various Sectors

IoT has been applied in various sectors, and here are some examples:

Health: In the health sector, wearable devices such as smartwatches can monitor heart rate and physical activity. This data can be sent to doctors for further analysis.

Agriculture: In the agricultural sector, sensors can be used to monitor soil moisture and weather conditions, enabling farmers to optimize irrigation and crop yields.

Transportation: Autonomous vehicles are an example of an IoT application in transportation. These vehicles use sensors and data to determine the best route and avoid congestion.

Smart City: Many cities around the world are starting to develop smart infrastructure that uses IoT. For example, street lights that can adjust their intensity based on the presence of vehicles or pedestrians.

The Future of IoT

The future of IoT looks bright, with projections showing an increase in the number of connected devices each year. New technologies such as 5G will enable faster and more stable connections, opening up new opportunities for innovation in IoT. Additionally, advances in artificial intelligence (AI) will enable IoT devices to become smarter and make decisions independently.

However, to achieve the full potential of IoT, it is important to address the challenges that exist, especially those related to security and privacy. Collaboration between government, industry, and society is needed to create a framework that supports the safe and responsible growth of IoT.

Conclusion

The Internet of Things is a revolution that is changing the way we live, work, and interact with our environment. By leveraging this technology, we can create a more efficient, comfortable, and safe world. While there are challenges to overcome, the opportunities offered by IoT are enormous. With the right understanding and approach, we can leverage IoT for the common good in the future.

The Internet of Things (IoT) has made everyday activities easier with connectivity and automation. Meanwhile, there are impacts that need to be watched out for from the use of the Internet of Things (IoT). The benefits and impacts of using the Internet of Things (IoT) itself can depend on its use. Wise use can increase the benefits and reduce the impacts of using the Internet of Things (IoT). 

Meanwhile, knowledge about the Internet of Things (IoT) is quite important to increase technological sensitivity and the use of smart and wise Internet of Things (IoT) devices. In addition, learning skills related to the Internet of Things (IoT) can improve competencies that are useful in the world of work later. One way is to learn the Internet of Things (IoT) in the Department of Telecommunication Engineering Telkom University. Let's #ReachYourFuture with Telkom University!