Internet of Things (IoT) and Its Relationship with Cloud Computing
The term Internet of Things (IoT) was first introduced in 1999 by Kevin Ashton, co-founder and Executive Director of the Auto-ID Center at MIT, as well as an innovator and consumer analytics expert. However, IoT had actually been developed much earlier, dating back to the early 1980s with the first Internet-connected device—the Coke Machine at Carnegie Mellon University. Programmers were able to connect to the machine via the Internet, check its status, and determine whether cold drinks were available—without physically going to the machine. Interesting, isn’t it? Now, how about cloud computing? Let’s continue.
What Is the Internet of Things?
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a technology that enables the control, management, and transfer of data from physical objects through the internet. IoT has evolved from wireless technology, Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS), and the Internet itself.
The “things” in Internet of Things can refer to many entities, such as people with implanted heart monitors, livestock with biochip transponders, or vehicles equipped with built-in sensors that alert drivers when tire pressure is low. IoT is closely related to machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, particularly in manufacturing, electricity, oil, and gas industries.
All tools are built with M2M communication capabilities and are often referred to as intelligent or “smart” systems (e.g., Smart Labels, Smart Meters, Smart Grid Sensors). Companies such as Samsung and LG have showcased IoT technology in household products including washing machines, refrigerators, microwaves, air conditioners, and TVs that can be controlled via smartphones or smartwatches. Many other major technology companies have also begun implementing IoT in various smart solutions, such as Smart Homes, Smart Factories, Smart Stadiums, and Smart Cities.
Below is an example explaining IoT in the automotive industry:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSIPNhOiMoE
What Is Cloud Computing?
After understanding IoT, it is also important to understand Cloud Computing and see how these two technologies are connected. Indonesian Cloud is a cloud service provider offering cloud computing solutions, allowing customers to “rent” virtual infrastructure, platforms, and applications based on their needs—without upfront investment in hardware and licenses. The payment method is simple, based on monthly subscriptions.
Cloud Computing Services Include:
1. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
This service allows users to rent IT infrastructure such as storage, memory, and networking resources. Users can define CPU capacity, storage size, RAM, bandwidth, and other configurations according to their needs. Indonesian Cloud, as the solution provider, is fully responsible for maintenance, enabling users to focus on running their business.
2. Software as a Service (SaaS)
This service delivers applications directly to users. Applications are web-based and can be accessed from various devices as long as there is an internet connection. Indonesian Cloud offers a comprehensive range of application solutions such as ERP, DMS, CRM, Email, File Sharing, and more.
3. Platform as a Service (PaaS)
This cloud computing service focuses on providing platforms to operate systems and applications quickly and easily. For example, Indonesian Cloud collaborates with VMware as a platform solution for cloud computing services.
The Relationship Between Cloud Computing and IoT
Based on the explanations above, it can be concluded that IoT serves as a complementary technology to cloud computing.
For example, in healthcare services (Smart Health / E-Health), IoT is utilized through mobile devices, mobile applications, and internet connectivity. Doctors can examine patients and identify symptoms through IoT-based mobile applications connected to cloud computing platforms. Patients input their symptoms, which are then sent to servers and received by doctors. Based on this real-time data, doctors can diagnose conditions and provide appropriate treatment.
From this example, IoT plays a supporting role in cloud computing—particularly in the healthcare sector.
Conclusion
The Internet of Things (IoT) illustrates the connectivity of physical objects to the internet, which is highly relevant to businesses across all industries as they continue to evolve.
To optimize IoT for business purposes, organizations can explore further solutions through Indonesian Cloud, a cloud service provider that offers cloud computing services to support IoT technology and enhance business processes.
Thank you.
Enrico J. Hutajulu
Application Consultant at Indonesian Cloud
This concludes our explanation. If you would like to read more technology-related articles or obtain further information about Indonesian Cloud products, please visit Indonesiancloud.com and our VPS website cloudhostingaja.com. See you in our next article.