Internet of things networking
The IoT network infrastructure topic section offers comprehensive resources on building and managing a network architecture capable of handling the internet of things. Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of different technologies and get guidance on various frameworks and protocols such as Bluetooth LTE, Wi-Fi and Zigbee.
Top Stories
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Video
30 May 2025
An explanation of RFID
Radio frequency identification uses radio waves to digitally tag items, so businesses can wirelessly identify and track goods. Near field communication is a subset of RFID. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Jan 2025
Best IoT conferences and events to attend in 2025
Major IoT conferences in 2025 cover the latest news and developments on IoT platforms, systems design, integration, applications, security, AI and emerging trends. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 May 2025
What is the OSI model? The 7 layers of OSI explained
The OSI model (Open Systems Interconnection model) is a multilayered reference model that shows how computer systems and applications communicate over a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 May 2025
What is shielded twisted pair (STP) and how does it work?
Shielded twisted pair (STP) is a kind of cable made up of smaller wires where each small pair of wires is twisted together and has an outer coating to electrically shield it. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 May 2025
What is ping and how does it work?
Ping (Packet Internet Groper) is a basic internet program that enables a user to test and verify if a particular destination Internet Protocol (IP) address is reachable and can respond to network requests. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 May 2025
What is 1000BASE-T (Gigabit Ethernet)?
1000BASE-T is a Gigabit Ethernet standard that operates at a speed of 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) over copper wiring. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2025
What is MIMO (multiple input, multiple output)?
MIMO (multiple input, multiple output) is an antenna technology for wireless communications in which multiple antennas are used at both the source (transmitter) and the destination (receiver). Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Apr 2025
What is a northbound interface/southbound interface?
A northbound interface (NBI) is an application programming interface (API) or protocol that allows a lower-level network component to communicate with a higher-level or more central component; conversely, a southbound interface (SBI) allows a higher-level component to send commands to lower-level network components. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Apr 2025
What is multiplexing and how does it work?
Multiplexing, or 'muxing,' is a way of sending multiple signals or streams of information over a communications link at the same time in the form of a single, complex signal. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Mar 2025
What is a programmable network (network programmability)?
A programmable network is one in which software that operates independently of network hardware handles the behavior of network devices and flow control. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Mar 2025
What is the data link layer in the OSI model?
The data link layer is the protocol layer in a program that handles how data moves in and out of a physical link in a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Mar 2025
What is port address translation (PAT)?
Port address translation (PAT) is a type of network address translation (NAT) that maps a network's private internal IPv4 addresses to a single public Internet Protocol address by using network ports. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Mar 2025
What is software-defined networking (SDN)?
Software-defined networking (SDN) is a networking approach in which software is used to easily configure and centrally manage IT networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Mar 2025
What is QAM (quadrature amplitude modulation) and how does it work?
QAM (quadrature amplitude modulation) is a method of combining two amplitude modulation (AM) signals into a single channel. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Mar 2025
What is a network interface card (NIC)?
A network interface card (NIC) is a hardware component, typically a circuit board or chip, installed on a computer so it can connect to a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Mar 2025
What is a network node?
A network node is a connection point in a communications network. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Mar 2025
What are port numbers and how do they work?
A port number is a way to identify a specific process to which an internet or other network message is to be forwarded when it arrives at a server. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2025
What is network analytics?
Network analytics is the application of big data principles and tools to the data used to manage and secure data networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Feb 2025
What is a network packet?
A network packet is a basic unit of data that is transferred over a computer network, typically a packet-switched network, such as the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Feb 2025
What is HTTP and how does it work? Hypertext Transfer Protocol
HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the set of rules for transferring files -- such as text, images, sound, video and other multimedia files -- over the web. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Jan 2025
Best IoT conferences and events to attend in 2025
Major IoT conferences in 2025 cover the latest news and developments on IoT platforms, systems design, integration, applications, security, AI and emerging trends. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Nov 2024
What is a Request for Comments (RFC)?
A Request for Comments (RFC) is a formal document created by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) that outlines technical specifications, organizational notes and standards relevant to internet and networking technologies, including protocols such as routing, addressing and transport technologies. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Oct 2024
What is black box AI?
Black box AI is any artificial intelligence system whose inputs and operations aren't visible to the user or another interested party. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Oct 2024
Starlink
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation system that aims to deliver global internet coverage. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Sep 2024
13 steps to achieve AI implementation in your business
AI technologies can enable and support essential business functions. But organizations must have a solid foundation in place to bring value to their business strategy and planning. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Sep 2024
What is a unique identifier (UID)?
A unique identifier (UID) is a numeric or alphanumeric string that is associated with a single entity within a given system. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Aug 2024
What is a microcontroller (MCU)?
A microcontroller is a compact integrated circuit designed to govern a specific operation in an embedded system. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Jun 2024
subnet (subnetwork)
A subnet, or subnetwork, is a segmented piece of a larger network. More specifically, subnets are a logical partition of an IP network broken into multiple, smaller network segments. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Jun 2024
packet coalescing
Packet coalescing involves using a computer's network interface card (NIC) to reduce the number of generated receive interrupts the adapter issues. Continue Reading
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Video
20 Jun 2024
An explanation of IoT
Every device connected to the internet has set systems to collect, send and act on data. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Jun 2024
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) is a standard protocol on the internet that ensures the reliable transmission of data between devices on a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Jun 2024
NBASE-T Ethernet
NBASE-T Ethernet is an IEEE standard and Ethernet-signaling technology that enables existing twisted-pair copper cabling to exceed the cable's specified limit of 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) for distances of up to 100 meters. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2024
edge analytics
Edge analytics is an approach to data collection and analysis in which an automated analytical computation is performed on data at a sensor, network switch or other device instead of waiting for the data to be sent back to a centralized data store. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jan 2024
How to build a functional network for rugged IoT
Rugged IoT networks are cropping up everywhere. Understanding the necessary edge computing and network requirements is crucial for deploying a successful rugged IoT network. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jan 2024
Wireshark
Wireshark is a widely used network protocol analyzer that lets users capture and view the details of network traffic in real time. It is particularly useful for troubleshooting network issues, analyzing network protocols and ensuring network security. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Dec 2023
edge device
An edge device is any piece of hardware that controls data flow at the boundary between two networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Nov 2023
distributed antenna system (DAS)
In a distributed antenna system (DAS), a single signal source is connected to a group of antennas instead of to a single antenna. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Nov 2023
OpenFlow
OpenFlow, an open source standard supported by many vendors, is the first software defined networking (SDN) control protocol. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Nov 2023
Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE)
Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE) is a protocol that encapsulates packets in order to route various protocols over Internet Protocol (IP) networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Oct 2023
Open Shortest Path First (OSPF)
Open Shortest Path First, often shortened to OSPF, is an IP routing protocol used to find the best path to distribute packets as they pass through IP networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Oct 2023
IP SLA (Cisco)
Internet protocol service level agreement (IP SLA) is a network performance monitoring (NPM) feature of the Cisco Internetwork Operating System (Cisco IOS) that enables an IT professional to collect information about network performance in real time. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Oct 2023
OFDMA (orthogonal frequency-division multiple access)
Orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA) is a technology of Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) that lets access points serve multiple clients at the same time. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
06 Sep 2023
Empower intelligence at the edge with AI deployment
AI deployment at the edge has the potential to unleash powerful real-time analysis and processing. Use cases include industrial automation, remote monitoring and healthcare. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Aug 2023
IoT gateway
An internet of things (IoT) gateway is a physical device or software program that serves as the connection point between the cloud and controllers, sensors and intelligent devices. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Jun 2023
Traditional networks vs. IoT networks: What's the difference?
An enterprise network is a system of interconnected devices that share information, while IoT is a system of devices connected to the internet that provides key analytics. Continue Reading
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Quiz
28 Jun 2023
10 edge computing quiz questions
Edge computing isn't new, but it has grown in popularity due to 5G and the influx of IoT devices. This quiz covers edge computing basics, such as pros, cons and differentiators. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Jun 2023
uploading
Uploading is the transmission of data from a local device to a remote device. Typically, the remote device is a larger server. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 May 2023
Key considerations for setting up an IoMT network
Strong IoMT networks ensure that patient data can be safely and reliably sent to healthcare professionals, which can improve patient outcomes and decrease costs. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 May 2023
wave number
A wave number, or wavenumber, refers to the spatial frequency of a wave over a specific unit distance. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Apr 2023
transport layer
The transport layer is Layer 4 of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model. It is responsible for ensuring that the data packets arrive accurately and reliably between sender and receiver. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Apr 2023
session layer
The session layer is Layer 5 of the OSI communications model. It is the long-lived logical connection that persists between endpoints over time. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Apr 2023
ACK (acknowledgement)
In some digital communication protocols, ACK -- short for 'acknowledgement' -- refers to a signal that a device sends to indicate that data has been received successfully. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2023
antenna
An antenna is a specialized transducer that converts electric current into electromagnetic (EM) waves or vice versa. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Feb 2023
decibels relative to isotropic (dBi)
Decibels relative to isotropic (dBi) is a unit of measurement that describes how much power an antenna transmits in a single direction when compared to an isotropic radiator, which transmits in all directions at once. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Feb 2023
polling (computing)
In computer science, polling or a polled operation denotes the process of repeatedly sampling the status of external devices by a client program. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jan 2023
transponder
A transponder is a wireless communication, monitoring or control device that picks up and automatically responds to an incoming signal. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Dec 2022
telemetry
Telemetry is the automatic measurement and wireless transmission of data from remote sources. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Nov 2022
Best practices for enterprise CBRS deployment
Enterprises can use CBRS spectrum to deploy private cellular networks that offer reliable and predictable coverage. Learn about installation, AP mounting and device compatibility. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Nov 2022
phase
In electronic signaling, a phase is the position of a wave at a point in time (instant) on a waveform cycle. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Nov 2022
An overview of IoT sensor types and challenges
IT teams responsible for IoT deployments must understand the different types of IoT sensors, how they work and what challenges they bring to the table. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
22 Aug 2022
Private 5G networks bring benefits to IoT and edge
A private 5G network offers more speed and security measures and requires less power than its public counterpart. Learn about its use cases and how to address implementation challenges. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Aug 2022
domain
Specific to the internet, the term domain can refer to how the internet is structured, and domain also refers to how an organization's network resources are organized. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Aug 2022
Wi-Fi sensing has the potential to be disruptive
With help from AI and machine learning, Wi-Fi sensing detects movement in the Wi-Fi environment. While it sounds promising, the technology still has a long way to go. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Apr 2022
Zero trust, wireless WAN affect the future of IoT networking
Zero-trust security models, wireless WAN evolution and the emergence of pop-up businesses are all helping to fuel innovation in IoT networking capabilities. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Apr 2022
Future of IoT offers mixed bag of opportunity, shortages
Here are four trends to consider as the technology melds into the metaverse and Web 3.0, while also battling lingering chip shortages and security concerns. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
10 Mar 2022
Demystifying the unspoken plurality of edge
If you ask different people, you'll receive different answers about edge technology. Acquaint yourself with the different use cases and deployment options that fall under the edge umbrella. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
01 Mar 2022
Top 5 considerations of IoT Wi-Fi interoperability testing
Wi-Fi interoperability is an essential component of successful IoT device design. Avoid operational errors and test security modes, radio options and 802.11 functionality. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
29 Dec 2021
Developing private 5G network strategy for Industry 4.0
If manufacturers can set up the right network option from the start, they will ensure support for future Industry 4.0 investments, such as autonomous robots. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Nov 2021
Top 5 benefits of edge computing for businesses
By bringing compute and storage closer to where the data is collected, edge computing provides many benefits to organizations, including increased speed and reliability. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Nov 2021
Edge computing vs. cloud computing: What's the difference?
IT administrators don't need to choose between the edge and cloud, but they need to know the pros and cons of each technology to best incorporate them in business operations. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Oct 2021
What is fog computing?
Fog computing is a decentralized computing infrastructure in which data, compute, storage and applications are located somewhere between the data source and the cloud. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
21 Sep 2021
Why move to an all-IP IoT
With more connected devices, organizations must contend with the limited address space of IPv4. IPv6 can assist with more address space, interoperability and easier development. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
26 Aug 2021
Why it's time for a new collective purpose
The future of work and home life is dependent on reliable connectivity anywhere in the world. Service providers and IoT device manufacturers must work together to make it happen. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
18 Aug 2021
Why 5G won't dethrone Wi-Fi 6 anytime soon at the edge
While 5G is sure to unlock some exciting use cases for edge deployments, it is impractical to believe it will ever fully replace Wi-Fi when it comes to connectivity at the edge. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Jun 2021
Providers expand global IoT connectivity from 4G networks
4G LTE currently holds the key position for international IoT connectivity, linking up automobiles, elevators and more, but the implementation of 5G and satellites is imminent. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jun 2021
mesh network topology (mesh network)
A mesh network is a network in which devices -- or nodes -- are linked together, branching off other devices or nodes. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
04 Jun 2021
How 5G will augment Wi-Fi in 3 industries
Despite the 5G hype, Wi-Fi and 5G together will play an important role in enterprise use cases, including remote patient care and smart manufacturing. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 May 2021
IoT connectivity management platforms optimize deployments
IT administrators can simplify IoT device and network challenges with IoT connectivity management platforms that monitor data transfers and security. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 May 2021
4 IoT connectivity challenges and strategies to tackle them
IoT connectivity challenges, such as scalability and compatibility, complicate deployments, so IT admins must plan for the infrastructure needed to support IoT initiatives. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Apr 2021
Common application layer protocols in IoT explained
IoT doesn't exist without connectivity, but those connections would not be possible without the right application layer protocols in IoT. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Apr 2021
Determine which of 4 IoT wireless networks fit your use case
Any organization planning an IoT deployment must meet connectivity requirements, such as range and data rates, that determine the best IoT wireless network for their applications. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Apr 2021
IoT interoperability standards complicate IoT adoption
IoT interoperability has complicated IoT adoption, but organizations must navigate the selection of competing standards, such as IP or MQTT, to get the most from IoT deployments. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
01 Apr 2021
LPWAN systems offer an easy-to-use connectivity option
The pandemic has made lasting changes to supply chains across industries, pushing organizations to better track goods and equipment with IoT sensors and LPWAN networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Mar 2021
RFID (radio frequency identification)
RFID (radio frequency identification) is a form of wireless communication that incorporates the use of electromagnetic or electrostatic coupling in the radio frequency portion of the electromagnetic spectrum to uniquely identify an object, animal or person. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Mar 2021
Everything you need to know about IoT connectivity options
Organizations have a multitude of IoT connectivity options to meet their needs, whether that includes a connection on the move or through dense walls and obstacles. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
01 Mar 2021
Returning to live events in smart arenas
With increased precautions and IoT technology in place, consumers can find comfort in returning to in-person events at arenas or stadiums with better safety precautions to reduce the spread of germs. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
01 Feb 2021
The rise of the enterprise consumer
As the office and home remain merged, enterprise consumers will become a significant area of focus for communication service providers and IoT developers alike. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
06 Jan 2021
3 ways technology and IoT will reshape businesses in 2021
As 2020 comes to a close and the COVID-19 pandemic persists in 2021, businesses must invest in IoT, networking, cloud and analytics tools to ensure safe re-entry into offices. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
24 Nov 2020
Why testing is vital in a 5G-powered world
If organizations want to tap into the true potential of 5G, they must retire outdated testing approaches and focus on intelligent end-to-end, real-time and security testing. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
04 Nov 2020
What to expect from automated IoE in the enterprise
Digital workers enable automated IoE outcomes that drive collaborative innovations. But businesses must determine what makes a truly good process and always select ones that will generate the ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
09 Oct 2020
Fuel IoT growth with 5G and Wi-Fi 6
Organizations can unlock the true potential of IoT and multi-device connectivity with the help of 5G and Wi-Fi 6 solutions, which offer improved connectivity and performance. The future is hybrid. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Oct 2020
How to implement edge computing in 5 steps
In order to get edge computing implementation right, IT administrators must first figure out how intelligent their IoT edge devices need to be and how best to group those devices. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Sep 2020
What does 5G IoT technology mean for future enterprises?
The emergence of 5G guarantees new architectures to connect billions of IoT devices but also introduces a host of new development challenges for practical applications. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
21 Sep 2020
3 ways a reliable network helps digitize supply chains
IoT technology increases operational efficiency, tracks assets and improves inventory visibility throughout the supply chain and prepares organizations for future disruptions. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Sep 2020
IPv6 address
An IPv6 address is a 128-bit alphanumeric value that identifies an endpoint device in an Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6) network. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
13 Aug 2020
How to get the best from IoE across the enterprise
By unleashing the potential of IoE, digital workers will be key to driving enterprise adaptation, which will help streamline, accelerate and automate work to provide an engine for sustainable growth. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jul 2020
Wi-Fi 6 and 5G for IoT mean fewer barriers to deployment
With Wi-Fi 6 and 5G rolling out, organizations might wonder if the latest generations are worth the investment to improve IoT deployment efficiency. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
27 Jul 2020
COVID-19 will reshape broadband and IoT in the home
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, broadband networks have experienced increase use. Both service providers and the IoT developer community must understand the big picture to better grasp new ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
13 Jul 2020
How enterprise IoT will evolve in a post-COVID world
As the COVID pandemic continues, businesses are beginning to find inherent value in IoT devices because of their ability to maintain social distancing, keep track of employees and increase sanitation. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 May 2020
How to design IoT infrastructure in 7 parts
Organizations can prepare their IoT deployments for success by understanding each IoT infrastructure component and how they all work together. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
22 May 2020
5G private networks to help expand IoT
Private 5G networks, separate from wider public networks, can help expand IoT into new geographies and use cases. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 May 2020
Determine when 5G and edge computing fit IoT best
Improvements in connectivity and compute technology mean that organizations must decide if the cloud is still the best place for IoT data or if they should move to the edge. Continue Reading