What’s the Difference Between Network of Things and Internet of Things?

The era of the Internet of Things (IoT) is upon us. It’s transforming the way we live, connect, and work. While it’s an all-encompassing term that represents the connectedness of devices, there are some variations that we need to discuss. One such difference is the Network of Things (NoT) vs. the Internet of Things (IoT).

What is the Internet of Things?

Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the devices that are connected to the internet and have a unique identifier. IoT enables the exchange of data between people, things, and processes. This exchange of data is what makes IoT devices powerful. From smart thermostats to fitness trackers to security cameras, IoT devices provide real-time insights leading to better decision-making.

What is the Network of Things?

The Network of Things (NoT), on the other hand, isn’t exclusively connected to the internet. Rather, it’s a network of devices that communicate with each other, exchanging data without any centralized control. NoT is designed to link devices in a specific geographical region like a factory or a building.

What’s the Key Difference?

The primary difference between NoT and IoT is that NoT is a standalone network that doesn’t require internet connectivity. In contrast, IoT depends heavily on the internet to route data between devices and servers. The internet enhances IoT capabilities, enabling coverage across wider regions.

Why is NoT Important?

NoT has several advantages over IoT, including lower latency and better privacy. NoT-equipped devices are generally more secure since they’re less exposed to the internet. Additionally, NoT makes data processing faster and more efficient by reducing the time spent sending data to a centralized server for analysis.

Use Cases

NoT applications can be found in a plethora of industries. In smart factories, for instance, NoT optimizes supply chain management, boosts productivity, and improves quality by monitoring the production process in real-time. Similarly, in smart buildings, NoT ensures that the infrastructure is effectively managed by controlling various systems like lighting, heating, and air conditioning. This reduces energy waste and improves the overall cost-efficiency of the building.

Conclusion

Both NoT and IoT represent significant advances in technology, and their impact on our daily lives continues to grow. While IoT is more common and widely known, NoT provides many benefits, especially in terms of privacy and real-time data processing. Understanding the differences between the two will enable organizations to select the network that is best suited to their specific needs.