Technology
What is The Internet of Things?
The Internet of Things (IoT) is the network of everyday physical objects — thermostats, watches, cars, sensors — embedded with software and connectivity so they can collect and exchange data over the internet.
See it, don’t just read it.
Watch a 2-minute lesson with voice + animation that explains the internet of things.
Key things to understand
- 1Ordinary devices gain sensors, software, and internet connectivity.
- 2They collect data and can be monitored or controlled remotely.
- 3Examples: smart-home devices, fitness trackers, connected cars, industrial sensors.
- 4More connected devices means more convenience — and more security/privacy concerns.
Frequently asked questions
- What is an example of IoT?
- Smart thermostats, fitness trackers, voice assistants, and connected security cameras.
- How does IoT work?
- Devices with sensors send data over the internet to apps or cloud services that analyze it and can send back commands.
- What are the risks of IoT?
- Weakly secured devices can be hacked, and the data they collect raises privacy concerns.