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
-
Feature
12 Nov 2025
5G driving IoT innovation: Key use cases and applications
5G's low latency, massive device density, energy efficiency and flexibility are tailor-made for the networking demands of a future IoT-connected world. Continue Reading
-
Feature
30 Oct 2025
5G in edge computing: Benefits, applications and challenges
5G and edge computing need each other to reach their full potential. Learn the benefits and challenges of decentralizing compute power and data on ultra-fast wireless networks. Continue Reading
-
Definition
17 Sep 2025
What is edge AI?
Edge artificial intelligence (edge AI) is a paradigm for crafting AI workflows. Continue Reading
-
Tip
22 Aug 2025
AI implementation: 13 steps to achieve success 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
-
Definition
04 Aug 2025
What is sensor data? Examples of sensors and their uses
Sensor data is the output of a device that detects, analyzes and responds to some type of input from the physical environment. Continue Reading
-
Definition
01 Aug 2025
What is a smart sensor and how does it work?
A smart sensor is a device that takes input from the physical environment and uses built-in compute resources to perform predefined functions when it detects specific input. It can also process data before passing it on. Continue Reading
-
Definition
01 Aug 2025
What are IoT devices?
Internet of things (IoT) devices are nonstandard computing hardware -- such as sensors, actuators or appliances -- that connect to a wired or wireless network to transmit data. Continue Reading
-
Definition
31 Jul 2025
What is narrowband IoT (NB-IoT)?
Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) is a wireless internet of things (IoT) standard that uses low-power wide area network (LPWAN) technology. Continue Reading
-
Definition
29 Jul 2025
What is an IoT gateway?
An IoT gateway is a physical device or software program that serves as the connection point between the cloud and internet of things devices, such as controllers, sensors and smart devices. Continue Reading
-
Definition
16 Jul 2025
What is IoT monitoring? Key use cases
IoT monitoring is the method of finding, configuring, securing, tracking and managing devices connected throughout an IoT environment. Continue Reading
-
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
-
Definition
27 May 2025
What is GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications)?
GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) is a digital mobile communication standard applied widely in Europe and other parts of the world. Continue Reading
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
Definition
07 Mar 2025
What is a network node?
A network node is a connection point in a communications network. Continue Reading
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
Definition
07 Oct 2024
Starlink
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation system that aims to deliver global internet coverage. Continue Reading
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
Definition
24 Feb 2023
antenna
An antenna is a specialized transducer that converts electric current into electromagnetic (EM) waves or vice versa. Continue Reading
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
Definition
01 Dec 2022
telemetry
Telemetry is the automatic measurement and wireless transmission of data from remote sources. Continue Reading
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
Definition
30 Oct 2019
pervasive computing (ubiquitous computing)
Pervasive computing, also called ubiquitous computing, is the growing trend of embedding computational capability (generally in the form of microprocessors) into everyday objects to make them effectively communicate and perform useful tasks in a way that minimizes the end user's need to interact with computers as computers. Continue Reading
-
Definition
02 Aug 2019
machine-to-machine (M2M)
Machine-to-machine, or M2M, is a broad label that can be used to describe any technology that enables networked devices to exchange information and perform actions without the manual assistance of humans. Continue Reading
-
Guide
28 Jun 2019
How to improve network visibility and regain control
Gaining visibility into the network has never been easy; technology like cloud and IoT makes it even tougher. Learn how to meet such challenges and keep network traffic flowing. Continue Reading
-
Definition
06 Jun 2019
gateway
A gateway is a network node used in telecommunications that connects two networks with different transmission protocols together. Continue Reading
-
Definition
29 Apr 2019
remote sensing
Remote sensing is the use of various technologies to make observations and measurements at a target that is usually at a distance or scale beyond those observable to the naked eye. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
20 Feb 2019
AI in networking presents opportunities for service providers
Network installers and managed service providers can reap key benefits with AI in networking, including better productivity, staff management and customer response. Continue Reading
-
Blog Post
10 Jan 2019
Thanks to new wireless capabilities, the future of IoT rests only on our imaginations
By solving key developer issues and lowering barriers to entry, says Twilio's Evan Cummack, new wireless capabilities are helping industry leaders usher in a new era of IoT. Continue Reading
-
Definition
31 Dec 2018
RFID tagging
RFID tagging uses small radio frequency identification devices to track and identify objects. Continue Reading
-
Definition
29 Aug 2018
Z-Wave
Z-Wave is a wireless communication protocol used primarily in smart home networks, allowing smart devices to connect and exchange control commands and data with each other. Continue Reading
-
Blog Post
30 May 2018
IoT inflection points you aren't thinking about and what they mean for developers
As businesses move from IoT experimentation to real-world IoT applications, there are a number of inflection points emerging. Twilio's Chetan Chaudhary discusses what these mean for developers. Continue Reading
-
Blog Post
08 Feb 2018
Dawning of the digital security border: A new standard for wide area perimeter and border security
Technology-based perimeter security may have a potential use case in the U.S. again thanks to low-power sensors and the new 802.16s industrial wireless standard. Continue Reading
-
Blog Post
10 Jan 2018
IoT to grow out of awkward adolescence in 2018 and other trends for the new year
It will be 2018 in which IoT grows up and offers true innovation. Infiswift's Arup Barat discusses this and more IoT trends for the coming year. Continue Reading
-
Blog Post
04 Jan 2018
Wired to wireless: The next big change in advanced metering infrastructure and connected societies
802.11s will allow us to rethink how wireless networks are designed in individual homes and businesses and, eventually, communities and smart grids. Continue Reading
-
Definition
26 Sep 2017
LPWAN (low-power wide area network)
Low-power WAN (LPWAN) is a wireless wide area network technology that interconnects low-bandwidth, battery-powered devices with low bit rates over long ranges. Continue Reading
-
Definition
29 Nov 2014
Bluetooth Low Energy (Bluetooth LE)
Also marketed as Bluetooth Smart, Bluetooth LE was introduced in the Bluetooth 4.0 specification as an alternative to Bluetooth Classic. Like its predecessor, Bluetooth LE uses frequency hopping wireless technology in the 2.4 GHz unlicensed radio band to interconnect nearby devices. Continue Reading