IIoT: What is the Industrial Internet of Things?

The industrial internet of things (IIoT), also known as the Industrial Internet, is the internet where machines, people, and computers go to communicate with each other. While this is a simple explanation for a vast and complicated system, it’s a good place to start when first learning about IIoT. There are numerous applications within this exciting system that enables users to connect with intelligent systems to create measurable business outcomes. While the Internet of Things (IoT) encompasses human-based interaction, IIoT focuses on machine-to-machine communication to enhance results and anticipate future disasters. 

What are the applications of IIoT?

Unlike traditional consumer IoT, IIoT was created to allow machines to communicate with each other and the programmers who built them. The applications of IIoT are nearly endless with the rapid expansion of our technological society. One major benefit of IIoT applications is the ability to allow machines to operate semi or fully independent of human interaction. These smart-systems will be able to alter their actions based on the information received through the established framework. Not only does this create a highly efficient workforce, but IIoT has the potential to slash human error and improve quality control across the board. While industrial production is a major benefactor of IIoT solutions, other sectors like healthcare, transportation, and the smart car industry stand to make huge strides with the help of IIoT. 

Concerns and Challenges of IIoT

While machine-to-machine communication and learning can help reduce human error, predict future problems, and increase efficiency, there are a few major hurdles in this young industry. One of the largest concerns is over the integration and security of IIoT enabled systems. Older infrastructure equipment and systems, known as legacy technology, are not equipped to deal with the advanced language used in IIoT. The attempt to integrate new tech into old systems could open vulnerable weak spots for cyberattacks and cause critical damage. In addition to dealing with security challenges associated with IIoT implementation, companies looking to implement a new network system could face financial hurdles. With the current legacy technology implemented throughout the world’s infrastructure, the cost to fully replace the existing systems could delay technological progress in IIoT. 

The Future of IIoT

While there are challenges surrounding the full implementation of IIoT, the new tech plans on being around for the next phase of technological reformation. A survey conducted by Forbes Insights found that 90% of the 500 surveyed executives saw a significant relationship between their companies and IoT or IIoT in the future. With this mass migration towards IIoT in the coming years, many companies have started moving their businesses to the cloud in order to take advantage of the next technological wave. Whether you’re operating a business with 10 employees or managing a workforce of 100, Integracon can help you be at the forefront of the future with our full range of cloud migration services. Contact a specialist today or visit our site to see why Integracon is your best choice when it comes to cloud services.