If your employees are having difficulty connecting their devices to your network, you should consider implementing the IoT model.
Additionally, for organizations with poor network security, the IoT can protect and improve any network vulnerabilities that might lead to a cyberattack.
These attacks can cost organizations hundreds of thousands of dollars to repair your network and can even cause permanent damage to your network following an attack.
Coeo knows how important a secure and reliable network is to an organization and has delivered thousands of network solutions and services to improve their network performance and security.
We want you to understand what the IoT is and how it affects networks so you can determine if it will benefit your network.
By the end of this article, you will know what the IoT is, the components of an IoT, and how your organization can benefit from using it.
What is the IoT?
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of devices and appliances connected with sensors and software. The IoT enables your devices to connect, send, and receive data from other users in the network.
By using the IoT, your organization can connect employees who are using a variety of devices for data transfers from any location.
The concept of the IoT is to create a network of interconnected devices that can automate tasks and enhance efficiency.
This helps your organization by enabling employees who work in separate locations to communicate with each other using any device from any location.
This is perfect for your organization operating from a variety of remote locations.
The key components of the IoT
Many components make up the Internet of Things. These components include:
Devices
The first component of an IoT is the devices. The devices are any object that can connect to the network such as phones, laptops, and tablets.
The devices are embedded with sensors that connect all identified employees to each other no matter what kind of device they are using.
Sensors
Sensors are embedded in devices and connect all users to the network. Sensors also gather information from their network environment.
With this information, it’s easier to monitor and manage your network.
Connectivity
One of the most important components of the IoT is the connectivity model of the network. Devices can be connected to a network using Wifi, Bluetooth, and other data transfer technologies.
User interface
IoT applications typically provide a user interface that enables users to monitor and control their network as well as devices connected to the network.
This interface can be controlled via mobile apps and web interfaces.
Security
Another important component of the IoT is security. Encrypted tunnels are utilized so data does not get stolen and malicious actors do not enter your network thus, helping to prevent cyberattacks.
Network security is an important component of your network to avoid cyberattacks that can result in your organization paying hundreds of thousands of dollars to repair any network damage that takes place.
There are a few network security services and solutions that your organization should consider including SASE and ZTNA to help prevent cyberattacks.
Additionally, there are processes your organization can use to test your network security such as vulnerability scans and penetration testing.
How your organization can benefit from the IoT
Now you know what an IoT is and the key components of this solution. However, it is important you understand how an IoT can benefit your organization.
The ways your organization can benefit from the IoT include:
Better network operation efficiency
The IoT allows organizations to monitor and optimize their network infrastructure in real-time. This enables you to improve network connectivity and performance.
In addition, sensors and devices can provide insights into your network and equipment performance so you can manage the network and improve performance wherever necessary.
Cost reduction
Your organization can save money by using the IoT to optimize processes and conduct predictive maintenance to help prevent expensive equipment failures that can result in costly network downtime.
If your organization relies on a constant reliable network connection, network downtime can cost your organization thousands of dollars every minute your network is down.
With an IoT, your network will experience less downtime thereby avoiding significant maintenance and opportunity costs.
Remote Monitoring and Management
Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) allows a network provider to monitor and manage your network for your organization.
This is extremely beneficial if your organization does not have IT expertise in-house or those resources are focused on more strategic IT initiatives.
These external resources typically improve network performance and efficiency increasing your employees’ productivity levels.
Determining if an IoT is the right fit for your organization
If your organization has poor network connectivity and has difficulty providing remote employees with a strong network connection, an IoT may be a good solution for your organization.
It is important for your employees to communicate and collaborate well and if they are incapable of doing that, it can adversely affect efficiency and productivity levels.
No one wants to attempt to run their business with connectivity challenges leading to poor communication between employees or with customers. This can ultimately lead to lost customers and lost revenue.
Coeo knows how important a reliable network connection is to an organization and has delivered thousands of network solutions and services to improve their productivity and efficiency levels.
We want you to understand what the IoT is and how it can improve your organization’s efficiency and productivity so you can determine if IoT is the right solution for your business.
If you would like to speak with our team to learn more about integrating the IoT or ask any questions you may have you can schedule an appointment.
Now that you understand what the IoT is and how it can benefit your organization, check out this article to learn more about network security:
