The term Internet of Things (IoT) may be familiar to you. IoT refers to “smart” objects, such as cars, appliances, even shoes and light switches, that are connected to the Internet. They exchange data and connect the physical world to the digital world.
But did you know that there are two terms used to define IoT? Besides the mentioned IoT, there is another similar concept called Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Both share a common thread in the form of connectivity and always-on availability of smart devices. Want to know more about the relationship and differences between IoT and IIoT? Read this article for more details.
What is IoT
Internet of Things (IoT) is a concept that connects devices over an Internet network. These devices can be everyday objects equipped with sensor technology and software, making them “smart” and connected to the Internet.
Through IoT, users can connect and communicate with each other to engage in certain activities, and automatically find, process, and send information.
Although the concept of IoT is superficially like Machine-to-Machine (M2M), the two have significant differences in scope and application. M2M focuses more on communication between machines without human intervention, such as factory machines that can automatically coordinate to increase production efficiency.
What is IIoT
Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is the application of Internet of Things (IoT) technology specifically to the industrial sector. While IoT focuses on consumer use of smart devices, IIoT connects machines, sensors, and systems in industrial environments to improve efficiency, productivity, and decision making.
The IIoT network supports M2M communication and regular data transfer between the central system and all IIoT-integrated devices. This technology is a key component of the industry 4.0 transformation and has the potential to revolutionize various industrial sectors and significantly increase productivity.
Differences Between IoT and IIoT
Starting with the definitions of the two, can you tell the difference between IoT and IIoT? Both the Internet of Things (IoT) and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) use Internet-connected devices to collect and share data. However, the focus of their development is different. The following table helps you distinguish between them.
| Feature | IoT | IIoT |
| Goal | Optimize consumption, increase personal comfort and control expenses. | Achieve maximum efficiency and smooth workflow in processes or production units. |
| Use case | Used to automate daily household processes. | Primarily used to monitor production and business environment parameters. |
| Impact | Revolutionizing consumer and commercial markets. | Evolution in industry by creating a digital layer in the ecosystem. |
| Service support | Manufacturers provide repair services. | Requires internal capabilities to manage the lifecycle. |
| Automation | Requires programmable learning capabilities. | Built for low latency and automation without human intervention. |
| Reliability | Must withstand extreme environments and operate for decades. | Requires encrypted and agile system architecture, dedicated chipset, threat detection and authentication. |
| Interoperability | Limited to specific devices and protocols. | Evolve with open standards to integrate multiple protocols, data sets and systems. |
| Scalability | Limited to personal use. | Scalable to large networks of thousands of sensors and non-IoT devices. |
Examples of IoT Implementations in Various Industries
IoT has various application examples that are very relevant in everyday life. You may have just realized some of these, but their use is very useful to help with activities.
Transportation
Autonomous vehicles are a form of embodiment of IoT technology in the transportation sector. This allows users to start the car without having to drive it directly. One example is the technology used by Elon Musk’s Tesla.
Smart City
IoT plays an important role in building smart cities by monitoring and managing the surrounding environment in real time. This includes monitoring traffic, flooding, water discharge conditions in reservoirs, and monitoring ocean conditions to mitigate disasters for sailors and fishermen.
Healthcare
The healthcare industry is ripe for IoT applications. Many new innovations use the IoT to support effective and safe treatment processes, such as checking heart rate, measuring sugar levels, MRIs, and even surgical procedures.
Energy
IoT is bringing solutions to many problems in the energy industry, such as pollution and wasted resources. For example, light sensors controlled by IoT can reduce electrical energy consumption. In addition, IoT also makes it possible to schedule smart home appliances such as washing machines, microwaves, refrigerators, and televisions.
Examples of IIoT Implementations in Industry
IIoT has a wide range of applications and can be applied in various industrial sectors. The following categories of companies are good candidates for implementing IIoT to increase efficiency, productivity, and innovation in their operations.
Manufacturing
IIoT is very suitable for manufacturing businesses, as it can monitor machines and production lines in real time. Data collected from devices and sensors in the factory can be used to improve production efficiency, perform predictive maintenance, and identify potential problems in the production process.
Automotive
In the automotive industry, IIoT can be applied to monitor and control the operation of production lines, conduct product quality analysis, and monitor vehicle performance in real time. This helps automotive companies improve product quality and production efficiency.
Transportation and Logistics
Logistics companies can use IIoT to track and monitor cargo during the delivery process. Sensors can be placed on containers or packaging to monitor location, temperature, humidity, and other environmental conditions. This data can help companies optimize routes, ensure cargo integrity and provide tracking information to customers.
Retail Companies
IIoT can be used to monitor real-time inventory in stores. Shelf sensors can provide information about product stock levels, so management can easily know when to restock.
Environmental and Public Sector
Governments and environmental agencies can use the IIoT to monitor environmental conditions. Sensors can be placed in various locations to monitor air quality, temperature, noise levels, and water quality. This data can be used to make environmental management decisions and identify issues that affect public health.
Agriculture
IIoT helps farmers make informed decisions about when to harvest. IIoT sensors collect data on soil and weather conditions and suggest optimal fertilization and irrigation schedules. Embedded computer chips monitor the health and location of livestock.
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CTI Group as the Largest IT Distribution Company in Indonesia
The application of IoT and IIoT technologies is a reality today. By understanding the differences between the two, we can better understand how the emerging Industrial Internet can provide new growth opportunities for businesses and optimize performance.
As one of the leading companies with years of experience in the IT industry, CTI Group is ready to help you reap the benefits of using IoT and IIoT technology for your business. To learn more about how we can help, check out our solution benefits here or contact us using the link below.
