Reference framework for the Internet of Things

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By Clare Naden
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The number of connected devices worldwide is growing exponentially and this “Internet of Things” affects every area of our lives from electricity to agriculture. A recently published International Standard will help ensure these systems are seamless, safer and far more resilient.

From autonomous vehicles to precision agriculture, smart manufacturing, e-health and smart cities, the Internet of Things (IoT) is already everywhere – and growing. It involves integrating “things” within IT systems, thus enabling electronic devices to interact with the physical world. 

The applications are endless, but as the phenomenon explodes, so too does the need for trust, security and a base from which the technology can be developed further, with robust measures and systems in place.

ISO/IEC 30141, Internet of Things (IoT) – Reference architecture, provides an internationally standardized IoT Reference Architecture using a common vocabulary, reusable designs and industry best practice. 

Dr François Coallier, Chair of the joint technical committee of ISO and the International Technical Commission (IEC) that developed the standard, said the IoT is growing fast due to rapid developments in ICT.

“So we saw a need for a reference architecture to maximize the benefits and reduce the risks”, he said.

ISO/IEC 30141 aims to do just that, providing a common framework for designers and developers of IoT applications and enabling systems that are “trustworthy”, meaning they are reliable, safe, secure, respect privacy and can withstand disruptions such as natural disasters and attacks.

“There are already many published standards for resilience, safety and security,” adds Coallier, “and this standard will provide the reference architecture to apply them to IoT systems.”

ISO/IEC 30141 was developed by joint technical committee ISO/IEC JTC 1, Information technology, subcommittee SC 41, Internet of Things and related technologies, the secretariat of which is held by KATS, ISO’s member for Korea. It is available from your national ISO member or through the ISO Store.

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