Technically, gateways are considered as endpoints. However, they are not always handled
by the end-user. It is possible that a network operator or the IoT service provider handles them.
Moreover, it is possible to engineer gateways into complex endpoints. This is done for the distri-
bution of a single uplink, which is connected to several lightweight endpoints.
DATA COMMUNICATION
When the proper IoT data communication models are used, they help users to improve in tech-
nical innovation and provide a lot of opportunities, which can assist in commercial expansion.
IoT data streams can be leveraged with new services and products, thereby serving as a catalyst
to trigger more innovation.
Since IoT devices are going to be implemented on a large scale in the next decade, hence, it
is important to go by the data communication models for better implementation.
What role data communication plays in IoT?
Flash Question
Device-to-Device
In this communication model, at least two devices have established direct connections with each
other where they explicitly communicate with each, instead of relying on an application server
to pass messages. The Internet, IP networks, and an extensive list of networks are supported by
these devices for communication. Usually, in order to establish communication with each other,
these devices use Z-Wave, ZigBee, Bluetooth, and other network protocols.
Device-to-Cloud
In this communication model, the IoT device establishes a direct connection with an Internet
cloud service, such as an application service provider, which is used for the transfer of data along
with controlling the message trac. This model uses Wi-Fi, wired Ethernet, and other commu-
nications mechanisms to connect an IP network with a device after which it finally establishes
a connection with the cloud service.
Often, the cloud service and the device belong to the same vendor. When the cloud ser-
vice and the device use proprietary data protocols, the user may have to become dependent
on a certain cloud service. This prevents or restricts using other options for service providers.
Such a phenomenon is known as vendor lock-in—a terminology that is used to describe data
access, ownership, and other crucial factors for the relationship with the service provider. From
a user’s perspective, they can feel confident that it is possible to integrate the devices of certain
platforms with others.
Device-to-Gateway
In this model, an ALG (application layer gateway) is connected with an IoT device as a channel
for reaching a cloud service. In layman terms, it refers to application software running on a local
gateway device and serves as an intermediary between the cloud service and the device while it
also oers security and features such as data or protocol translation.
126 Internet of Things
Internet_of_Things_CH05_pp105-140.indd 126 9/3/2019 10:13:55 AM
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