When the alarm of your smartphone rings in the morning, you wake up and tap it to stop the alarm which causes your geyser to be switched on automatically. The smart mirror in your bathroom shows the day’s weather and also indicates the level of water in your overhead tank. After you take some groceries from your refrigerator for making breakfast, it recognises the shortage of stock in it and places an order for the supply of fresh grocery items. When you step out of your house and lock the door, all lights, fans, geysers and AC machines get switched off automatically. On your way to office, your car warns you about traffic congestion ahead and suggests an alternative route, and if you are late for a meeting, it sends a message to your office accordingly.
In the context of emerging communication technologies, which one of the following terms best applies to the above scenario?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2018 Prelims]
(a) Border Gateway Protocol
(b) Internet of Things
(c) Internet Protocol
(d) Virtual Private Network
Answer: (b)
- IoT, or the Internet of Things, refers to the interconnectivity of physical devices, vehicles, buildings, and other objects embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and network connectivity that enable them to collect and exchange data over the internet.
- This technology allows for seamless communication between devices, enabling automation, remote monitoring, and control of various systems and processes.
- With IoT, it is possible to create smart homes, smart cities, and smart industries that are more efficient, productive, and convenient for users.