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10 Stunning Used IoT Protocols and Standards in 2024 You Need to Know

10 Stunning Used IoT Protocols and Standards in 2024 You Need to Know

26/04/2024

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In 2024, the IoT continues to reshape our world, with over 75 billion IoT devices projected to be online by 2025. At the heart of this transformative wave are IoT protocols, the critical frameworks that ensure devices communicate effectively and securely. Understanding these IoT protocols is not just for tech enthusiasts but for anyone keen on leveraging the power of connected devices. In this blog, we’ll explore 10 stunning used IoT protocols and standards that are defining the IoT landscape this year. From enhancing home automation to revolutionizing industrial processes, these IoT protocols are the building blocks of a smarter, more interconnected world.

Why Are IoT Protocols Important?

The main advantage of IoT (Internet of Things) is that it lets different devices talk to each other. This communication is key because it transfers data from devices, like sensors, through the IoT system to main computers.

This data transfer is managed by IoT protocols, which make sure the data sent from devices is properly received and understood at every stage, whether it’s being sent to another device, a central gateway, or a software application.

In simple terms, these IoT protocols are just as essential to the IoT system as the devices themselves.

However, not all protocols are the same. According to Bill Ray, a Gartner analyst and senior research director, some protocols are better for certain situations than others. For instance, some protocols are good for IoT in single buildings, some are better for connecting devices across multiple buildings, and others are best for nationwide or global IoT setups.

Different Types of IoT Protocols

There are many different types of IoT protocols to choose from. Each protocol has its own set of features that make it better suited for certain IoT setups.

These protocols allow devices to communicate with each other, with a gateway, or with a cloud/data center.

Deciding which protocol to use depends on factors like where the devices will be located, how much power they need, whether they run on batteries, if there are physical obstacles, and how much it costs to implement the protocol in the IoT system.

What Are The Different Layers of IoT Architecture?

The architecture of an Internet of Things (IoT) system refers to the organized network of devices, sensors, actuators and cloud services that enable data to flow. There are typically four key layers:

Perception Layer (or Sensing Layer): This is where physical world data is collected by various sensors and actuators. These sensors can be temperature sensors, motion detectors, image capture devices, and many more. They collect data and convert it into electrical signals.

Connectivity Layer (or Network Layer): This layer is responsible for transmitting the collected data from the sensors to the cloud or a local server. This can be done through various communication protocols like WiFi, Bluetooth, cellular networks, etc.

Data Processing Layer: Here, the raw data from the sensors is transformed into meaningful information. This may involve filtering, aggregation, and analysis of the data. In some cases, this layer might reside at the edge of the network on devices like gateways for faster processing.

Application Layer: This layer interacts with the processed data to control devices or provide user applications. This could involve creating dashboards to visualize sensor data, sending alerts and notifications, or integrating the data with other systems.

Top 10 Used IoT Protocols in 2024

#1 AMQP

AMQP stands for Advanced Message Queuing Protocol, a pivotal open standard in IoT protocols that facilitates message-oriented middleware. It promotes messaging interoperability across different systems, utilizing various message brokers or platforms. Known for its robust security, reliability, and interoperability, AMQP maintains effective communication even over long distances or unreliable networks, ensuring seamless connectivity even when systems are not concurrently active.

#2 Bluetooth and BLE

Bluetooth, a cornerstone among short-range wireless IoT protocols, operates via short-wavelength, ultrahigh-frequency radio waves. Traditionally favored for audio streaming, it now plays a vital role in enabling wireless connectivity for personal area networks and IoT applications. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), or Bluetooth LE, is an enhancement optimized for IoT, consuming less power than traditional Bluetooth. This feature is crucial for applications like health trackers and smart home devices, and it facilitates commercial applications such as in-store navigation.

#3 Cellular

Cellular technology is one of the most accessible and renowned IoT protocols, ideal for long-distance communication in IoT deployments. As the legacy 2G and 3G standards phase out, telecom companies are advancing 4G/LTE and 5G networks; which provide high bandwidth and reliable communication, essential for transmitting large data volumes in IoT applications. However, these benefits come with higher costs and increased power consumption.

#4 CoAP

Developed in 2013 by the Internet Engineering Task Force’s Constrained RESTful Environments Working Group, the Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP) complements HTTP-based IoT systems. Utilizing the User Datagram Protocol, CoAP secures communications and facilitates data transmission across multiple points. It is particularly suited to machine-to-machine (M2M) applications, allowing IoT integration even in environments with limited bandwidth or energy resources.

#5 DDS

The Object Management Group (OMG) introduced the Data Distribution Service (DDS) as a middleware protocol and API standard, enhancing data-centric connectivity for real-time systems. DDS excels in low-latency data connectivity and extreme reliability, providing a scalable architecture necessary for business and mission-critical IoT applications. This protocol is favored for its ability to facilitate real-time data exchange using a publish-subscribe model.

#6 LoRa and LoRaWAN

LoRa, short for long range, is a noncellular wireless technology essential in IoT protocols for its long-range communication capabilities and low power consumption. Governed by the LoRa Alliance, LoRaWAN extends LoRa’s capabilities by maintaining an open cloud-based protocol that supports IoT device communication, enhancing security and data transmission for M2M applications.

#7 LWM2M

Lightweight M2M (LWM2M), described by OMA SpecWorks, is a tailored device management protocol designed to meet the specific needs of sensor networks in M2M environments. LWM2M excels in remote device management and telemetry in IoT settings, making it an optimal choice for devices with limited processing power and storage capabilities.

#8 MQTT

Originally known as Message Queuing Telemetry Transport, MQTT is a leading open-source option among IoT protocols; employing a publish-subscribe architecture to facilitate M2M communication. Designed for low-bandwidth, unreliable networks; MQTT is especially suitable for connecting devices with minimal code requirements and supports varied wireless networks, which may experience latency or bandwidth constraints.

#9 Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is ubiquitous in IoT protocols, favored for its rapid data transfer capabilities within local area networks. While it processes large volumes of data efficiently and offers several standards like 802.11n; its high power consumption and limited range restrict its application in some IoT scenarios, particularly where low-power or battery-operated devices are involved.

#10 XMPP

The Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol (XMPP), developed by the Jabber community in the early 2000s for real-time human communication, now supports M2M interactions in IoT. XMPP facilitates the real-time exchange of structured, extensible data across network entities, primarily used in consumer-oriented IoT applications like smart appliances. It is supported by the XMPP Standards Foundation and remains a prominent choice in lightweight middleware.

Conclusion

The IoT landscape is constantly evolving, with new protocols and standards emerging to meet the ever-growing demands of interconnected devices. As we move through 2024, understanding these powerful technologies is crucial for anyone who wants to stay ahead of the curve.

This blog has explored ten of the most stunning and impactful protocols and standards that are shaping the future of IoT. From the secure communication of Thread to the low-power efficiency of LoRaWAN; these innovations are enabling a wave of intelligent devices that are transforming our homes, workplaces, and cities.

Editor: AMELA Technology