Glossary Updates12 new terms added to the glossaries · October 2, 2026, 22:44 CEST
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Glossary · IIoT, data and AI

Internet of Things (IoT)

Also known as: IoT

German: Internet der Dinge (IoT)

The Internet of Things (IoT) is the network of physical objects equipped with sensors, software and communication interfaces that allow them to collect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet or other networks. IoT vocabulary is standardized in ISO/IEC 20924 and a reference architecture in ISO/IEC 30141.

  • IIoT

In one sentence

The Internet of Things is the network of physical objects with sensors, software and connectivity that collect and exchange data.

Example

Building sensors report room temperature and occupancy to a platform that adjusts heating; the same principles, applied to machines, form the IIoT.

How it applies

  • Engineering: IoT systems consist of devices, connectivity, platforms and applications. Industrial projects usually draw on the same technologies but add requirements for availability and integration with automation systems.
  • Security: Many IoT devices have long lifetimes and limited update mechanisms. Requirements for products with digital elements, such as those of the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), apply to connected products placed on the EU market.
  • Documentation: Connected products need information on setup, network requirements, data collected, updates and end-of-support dates.

IoT vs. IIoT

IoT is the general concept across consumer, building, health and industrial applications. Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is its industrial application with stricter requirements for reliability, lifetime, safety and OT security.

By knowledge.aitechdoc.world · Published September 26, 2026 · Last reviewed

Source: ISO/IEC 20924, Internet of Things (IoT) — Vocabulary

Definitions follow the cited standards and specifications. Where a source is a copyrighted publication, such as an ISO, IEC or EN standard, the definition is a close paraphrase, not a verbatim quotation, so as not to infringe copyright. We recommend reading the original publication. The sections “How it applies” are editorial commentary by AI TechDoc Knowledge and are not part of any standard.

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