While there’s no denying the impact of the Internet of Things (IoT), this innovation isn’t necessarily accessible to every business and brand. Though IoT adoption offers numerous connections, a company must have the right Internet of Things protocols before direct integration. However, there are several barriers to effective IoT protocols and the use of IoT data. To better understand the digital transformation afforded by the Internet of Things, it’s critical to understand some key challenges to IoT adoption and integration. This is what you need to know.

IoT Basics

The Internet of Things is constantly growing and developing. More and more, IoT devices are becoming the norm. It seemingly started with IoT smart devices like the smartphone with web capability. Then, IoT principles are integrated into the smart home. Now, smart cities are on the rise, thanks to the continued growth of IoT connectivity. Essentially, any device connected to the greater global network through an internet connection is part of the Internet of Things. Your wi-fi-enabled tablet? It’s part of the Internet of Things. Are your wearable devices and smart objects placed throughout your home? IoT devices through and through. Even smart meters or thermostats with enhanced sensor data make your house smart. These physical devices rely on critical infrastructure and web analytics to enhance performance and reliability. However, there are some vital gateways.

1. Vulnerability

IoT devices, even wearable devices, are susceptible to hackers. Some IoT devices have difficulty ensuring that their utilities are safe from the external efforts of hackers. Since many IoT devices actively collect data, preferences, and use cases, hackers are naturally interested in these analytics. Data, of course, is proving more and more valuable. Security is critical for IoT data and is a general barrier to adoption. IoT protection from attacks is still a growing study.

2. Integration

Not all IoT devices or applications can integrate effectively with existing technology, especially without concentrated human intervention. A smart speaker or smart thermostat on your wireless network may not be able to interface effectively with analog equipment. This is why integrating the IoT platform and applications in everyday devices is more commonplace. Smart speakers, security cameras, wireless sensor networks, and appliances are all newer additions to the smart grid.

3. Costs

Compare the expense of a smart speaker or appliance against its analog counterpart. Chances are the integration of wireless network connectivity and processors raise costs significantly. Since IoT devices can leverage big data more capably and handle predictive maintenance, they come with higher price tags. This also counts for industrial IoT needs. IoT devices in fleet management, smart city projects, industrial systems, and supply chains can offer new revenue streams. However, this IoT device enhancement comes at a cost.

4. Digital Divisions

Not everyone can access smart appliances, edge devices, home security systems, and other IoT solutions. While the digital world is becoming more interconnected, the physical world is seemingly more divided. Millions of individuals worldwide don’t have sufficient access to IoT training which can impede predictive maintenance, asset management, automation, and smart cities projects.

5. IT Teams

While many companies rely on IoT platforms and operational technology for growth, some companies can’t leverage advanced technologies. If your IT team can’t navigate an IoT system that connects artificial intelligence, machine learning, and zettabytes of data, the IoT ecosystem might not be ideal. There’s no denying the use cases of IoT devices and applications. In industrial settings, consumer homes, and enterprises, IoT is growing rapidly. Despite current entry barriers, IoT deployment will likely continue to increase at high speeds.