Internet-connected devices have become common in both homes and businesses. In 2021, there were over 10 billion active IoT devices, and experts expect that number to exceed 25.4 billion in 2030. As these devices become more integral to everyday operations, it becomes more important for companies to manage them effectively. What is IoT device management?

What Is IoT Device Management?

The Internet of Things refers to the growing collection of devices that are capable of sending and receiving information over the internet. This includes obvious internet-connected devices, such as smartphones and entertainment systems, and less obvious devices, such as smart home technology and automated irrigation systems.

Businesses are becoming increasingly reliant on IoT technology for tasks such as routing, data collection and edge computing. To avoid potential problems, companies must manage these devices effectively.

Fundamentals of IoT Device Management

There are five categories of basic requirements for IoT device management that you must understand to answer the question, “What is IoT device management?”

1. Onboarding

To function as part of the IoT, devices must be able to connect to the internet. The onboarding stage of IoT device management includes the processes of authenticating and provisioning devices.

To function as part of the IoT, devices must be able to connect to the internet. The onboarding stage of IoT device management includes the processes of authenticating and provisioning devices.

The provisioning phase involves initially setting up devices to connect to the network. This step includes adjusting the factory settings to allow the device to function optimally.

During the authentication process, devices connect securely to an IoT platform or system. If the device has valid credentials, the system sends configuration data to it. If not, the system rejects the device and it cannot connect.

2. Configuration

Most devices come preconfigured. However, factory settings are usually not optimal. IoT device management platforms must configure devices to function optimally with the rest of an organization’s connected devices and systems.

3. Maintenance

Companies can not simply connect IoT devices and then forget about them. The maintenance phase involves checking for bugs introduced through firmware upgrades, monitoring security vulnerabilities and ensuring that companies are still optimally configuring and employing devices as projects change.

4. Diagnostics

The goal of diagnostics is to reduce security failures, downtime, bugs and other issues. IoT management platforms use advanced analytics to identify small problems and correct them before they develop into big problems.

5. End-of-Life Management

IoT devices can become obsolete as new technology emerges. Companies may also no longer need specific devices once the projects that employ them are complete. However, taking these devices out of service is not as simple as just turning them off and throwing them away.

IoT management platforms must take devices offline in a way that minimizes disruptions to the system, prevents data leaks and avoids security vulnerabilities. In some cases, they must also prepare new devices to replace the devices they remove from the system.

What Is IoT Device Management Features?

There are a variety of IoT device management platforms to choose from, but most share core features:

  • Bulk registration and deployment of connected devices
  • Ability to search and index device fleets
  • Remote updates and device management
  • Security tunneling for diagnostics and problem-solving
  • Device organization
  • Custom scripting
  • Device logging
  • Centralized device control through customizable dashboards

What Are the Benefits of IoT Device Management?

IoT device management has multiple benefits that allow organizations to more effectively control and monitor their IoT devices.

Faster Registration

One of the downsides to deploying new technology is that it may require companies to take existing systems offline, which can disrupt operations and cost the company money. IoT device management can reduce the time needed for configuration, development and deployment of devices so that new technology is less disruptive and expensive to deploy.

Improved Remote Device Management

Remote functionality is a major component of the answer to what is IoT device management. Companies may have many IoT devices in physical locations that are far apart or difficult to access. Physically sending a technician to troubleshoot a problem or update a device is expensive and time-consuming. IoT device management makes it possible to perform most troubleshooting, updates, reboots, security patches and factory resets remotely on individual devices and entire fleets.

Better Device Organization

IoT platforms organize devices into hierarchies and groups and apply access policies for them. This makes it easier to track devices and operations and ensures devices are compliant with established security and business practices.

More Efficient Troubleshooting

IoT device management can utilize device attributes to locate individual devices in real time. This allows companies to more efficiently troubleshoot individual devices in a fleet that may contain thousands of IoT objects.

What Is IoT Device Management Used For?

IoT device management is useful in a variety of consumer, commercial and industrial applications. The exact functions of IoT management vary by platform, but most provide similar core functionality.

Sending and Receiving Data

IoT device management functions as a central hub for communication with deployed devices. Operators can use the HTTP protocol to communicate with devices over the internet or communicate directly with devices using the MQTT protocol.

Maintaining Devices

The steady stream of sensor data provided by IoT devices makes it possible to remotely monitor them for potential problems. Many IoT solutions also make it possible to remotely perform emergency repairs and regular maintenance with a minimum amount of downtime.

Improving Workflows

Organizations can use IoT management to define essential workflows. These workflows help companies make their processes more efficient and effective.

Increasing Automation

IoT management allows connected devices to work together to automate actions. For example, a climate sensor can send data about precipitation trends and weather forecasts to an irrigation system that can then act based on that data.

What Is IoT Device Management With DreamzTech Solutions?

As one of the leading IoT application development companies, DreamzTech can answer any questions you have about IoT device management. We have experience developing a variety of consumer and industrial IoT applications, including smart home devices, wearable technology and smart devices for businesses. We provide IoT strategy and consulting, backend engineering, Amazon Web Services and application development services to a diverse range of industries. Contact us online to request a quote or get more information.

Sources:

https://www.servicenow.com/products/field-service-management/what-is-iot-device-management.html
https://dataprot.net/statistics/iot-statistics/
https://www.digi.com/blog/post/what-is-iot-device-management

About the Author

DreamzTech

DreamzTech Solutions Inc is a US based International software firm. The US division of the global network Dreamztech, is headquartered in Tempe, Arizona. Specializing in Web and Mobile based platforms suited for any size of business. From building a complete website or mobile app, to an Enterprise Corporate Solution Dreamztech Solutions Inc. can handle it. Our priority is to establish a long term relationship with our clients and deliver their VISION. Call us today to discuss your upcoming project @ (800) 893-2964.

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