The modern technology has made it possible to increase connectivity between machines, for efficient and fast communication. The hype around the evolution of the internet of things presents a rare opportunity for users to learn how they can incorporate gig data solutions for maximum efficiency. The ability to track activities at the snap of the mouse seems to hold the key for connectivity. It is now happening, making everything in the modern world “smart” thanks to cloud computing and data collecting sensors that provide virtual, instant and mobile connectivity.

A look at the previous discussions shows limited imagination on what the concept can do, as people seems to focus on devices communicating to like devices. A broader view into this makes a machine just a tool to facilitate physical tasks, beyond the M2M communication. It is all about the sensors, which is not a machine, but executes everything like a computer would do. The IOT seems to optimize functionality through a combination of sensors and devices.

Today, IoT connected devices run factories, buildings, and garden crops to preserve power and other utilities. You refrigerators can send grocery lists in the form of text messages to your phone when the supplies run out. Without the capacity to analyze and present data gathered by the sensors, the innovation would not be worth the effort. The IOT brings the intersection between collecting information and leveraging it real time.

The role of cloud-based applications

The cloud-based applications form the basis for leveraging data. It is virtually impossible to for IoT to function without these applications that facilitate transmission and interpretation of data emanating from the sensors. The cloud gives limitless opportunities to the applications to work anywhere and anytime, making it possible to track events real time. For instance, the sensors can now feature in the main constructions to monitor potential stresses that cause cracks, which if left resolved leads to massive destruction of property and deaths. The application is not limited to the construction industry.

Other than the stress, the sensors can give alerts anytime there are foreign substances that may cause havoc. In the case of a bridge, it would send signals through the wireless internet to the cars, when the ice forms, averting possible accidents. When the car identifies the imminent threats, it can instruct the driver and implement if he fails to heed. It presents a perfect scenario that comes with a sensor to machine communication. The sensors on the bridge connect to the car, which turns acts on the information provided.

The ultimate benefits

Imagine what will come out of a smart city grid connection with a smart car. The traffic flow optimization benefit is likely to outlive the expected outcomes. Other than the conventional spotlights based on fixed timers, the smart spotlights will respond to changes in the flow of traffic. The drivers will get instant messages on the conditions of the roads, which will be key toward rerouting those headed towards congested areas, areas under construction and snow-stricken roads. The end of it will see sensors monitor all types of data, cloud-based apps converting it into valuable intelligence while transmitting it to machines for real-time responses.

With that in place, there is need to see beyond the cost savings and the smart cities. The concept brings to a fundamental shift in the main sectors that will trigger innovations, aimed at solving particular challenges. IoT remains the next big thing that is likely to bring in disruptions and opportunities in equal measure. How big the impacts will emerge depends on how well the players adapt to the fast changing concept, and the existing capacity to absorb these changes.

Implications on privacy

The other side of this development leaves personal privacy in a detriment. It is all about monitoring something, using GPS technology, which might expose them to personal threats if the users misuse the information gathered. The ability to transmit the large volumes of data comes with the unparalleled level of risk that needs explicit rules for the private entities. The benefits are clear, but if the companies cannot maintain a level of privacy, they are likely to be compromised through online frauds, making them victims of success.

With numerous cases of hackers stealing money on during personal information, one cannot wish away the impending risks. Cisco estimations show that the concept is likely to generate about 400 trillion gigabytes of data every year by 2018. The larger the data storage facility, the more attractive it is for cybercriminals. The sheer volume of data generated is likely to compromise the existing typical repositories. Access to personal and financial information presents a rich fodder for online burglars and targeted attacks. It might be used to rob the victims or access the highly secured networks for ill-purposed motives.

Dealing with the risks

In 2015, the FTC developed a comprehensive report on the issues surrounding IoT. The document focused on the risks associated with data collection and arrived at two major recommendations, which include: limiting data stores by collecting and keeping only what the business needs, and provide notice and free choice to the users on how the application process. Nonetheless, it acknowledges the challenge involved when the gadgets lack the user’s interface.