A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding the Internet of Things

At its very basic level, the Internet of Things refers to the connection of everyday objects to the Internet and to one another, with the goal being to provide users with smarter, more efficient experiences.

The broad idea behind these buzzwords is that a whole constellation of inanimate objects is being designed with built-in wireless connectivity, so that they can be monitored, controlled and linked over the Internet via a mobile app. The types of objects span a wide range of categories, from wearables to light bulbs to home appliances (like the coffee maker, washing machine, and even your car) -- really, anything. IoT is also being applied to vertical markets like the medical and health-care industry and to transportation systems.