IoT Sensor Node Block Diagram

The Internet of Things (IoT) is about interconnecting embedded systems, bringing together two evolving technologies: wireless connectivity and sensors. These connected embedded systems are independent microcontroller-based computers that use sensors to collect data. These IoT systems are networked together usually by a wireless protocol such as WiFi, Bluetooth, 802.11.4, or a custom communication system. The networking protocol is selected based on the distribution of nodes and the amount of data to be collected.

This data is sent over the network to the main hub or computer. This main computer collects and analyzes the data, storing it in memory and even making system decisions based on the results of the analysis.

Crucial to modern IoT nodes is the need for security with some form of data encryption, the most common being AES256. This security is critical for helping the microcontroller perform a secure boot, insuring that the core is running the code is meant to run. Encryption security is also used to encrypt the data transmitted over the network, insuring that it is viewed only by those systems authorized to receive the data.