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8 IoT Architecture Best Practices: An Overview
IoT architecture has shaped the way people go about their daily lives. The various developments brought about by IoT architecture are helping simplify so many complex processes.
In particular, IoT architecture played a major role in the enhancement of several industries worldwide.
There are several best practices tech leaders have come up with to help them create more and better IoT architecture. If you are looking for partners to improve your IoT architecture, NCS can help you with that.
This article will give you a brief overview of some of the best IoT architecture practices you can use to evaluate your current IoT practices.
By knowing these best practices, you can improve them and offer better services to your consumers.
The following sections describe the IoT architecture best practices in various fields, including industrial IoT architecture, IoT hardware integrator/manufacturer, and IoT solution operator.
Best Practices for Industrial IoT Architecture
Always Consider an Evolving Data Model
When designing an IoT application, you must always remember that data evolves. A data model includes three things: (1) data from the devices, (2) data generated and encoded by the user, and (3) data from external systems.
In the design phase, you must pay particular attention to how data evolves and multiplies over time as end-users continue to use the programme.
It is important to keep track of time series data and associated metadata to create an algorithm that can efficiently transform data into information.
Always Consider the End-Users
All IoT systems are meant to be used by end-users. Thus, when designing the whole software or system, the end-users ease of use and convenience should be of utmost consideration. End-users should easily navigate the user interface, whether mobile or web-based.
The programme should be easy to use. Its user authentication and authorisation features should be secure and easily understandable.
End-users should be able to interact with the programme with minimal instructions or restrictions. It should also have an efficient alert or notification system.
Retrofitting Wireless Connection
Industries aiming for a more efficient workflow should definitely consider having a wireless connection in the workplace.
Wireless connectivity allows the whole company to connect—send and receive data in a simple, cost-efficient way.
A retrofit wireless connection opens the door through the use of an integrated platform where members can send and receive data from each other. Investing in a long-range wireless connection is ideal for improving production downtime and minimising costs.
Best Practices for IoT Hardware Integrators and Manufacturers
Hardware Design With Minimal Requirements
As much as possible, computer hardware should contain minimal features. It should have built-in features that are necessary for its optimal operation.
For instance, a USB port may no longer be necessary for certain devices because hardware manufacturers planned better alternatives in its place. Unnecessary features can make the device vulnerable to attacks or physical damage.
Tamper-Proof Hardware
Hardware manufacturers should consider incorporating built-in mechanisms when detecting physical manipulation or tampering with the hardware.
Tampering includes removing any part of the device or simply opening the device cover.
Tamper signals can be embedded in the device’s data stream, which is available in the cloud. The signals could trigger manufacturers’ alerts regarding tampering issues and other attacks on the device.
Best Practices for IoT Solution Operators
Protection Against Malicious Online Activities
All new devices should have pre-installed antivirus and anti-malware protection. Though most antivirus or anti-malware programmes are initially free for a month or so, this can still protect the user from external threats.
This antivirus software should be made accessible for download to give users the opportunity to choose which brand could provide them with the protection they need the most.
Protection of Cloud Credentials
Many end-users make use of the cloud to store important data. Thus, their cloud credentials must be securely protected from any form of online attack.
The cloud should be designed so end-users can easily change their passwords regularly. Doing this helps protect their cloud credentials.
End-users should also refrain from accessing these credentials when using public devices or public internet connections.
Regular Auditing of IoT Infrastructure
Regularly auditing your IoT infrastructure should be diligently undertaken for security reasons. Doing a frequent audit helps detect any form of a security breach within the system.
A regular audit serves as a layer of protection. Audited information can be sent to the cloud for data storage and analysis.
Unable to do this practice can cause more damage and cost to the company once the system has been breached.
Conclusion
There are several best practices that should be considered when designing an IoT architecture. Some practices mentioned above can be your company’s starting point in building your own IoT architecture plan.
Living in the IoT world, there will certainly be many challenges. However, problems can be minimised when discipline and best practices are placed in order and emphasised. Businesses will thrive with a well-planned IoT architecture.
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