IoT Connectivity Management Platform – Functionality & Features

The Internet of Things (IoT) has transformed the way companies operate. Its growth has been explosive. According to reports, the number of IoT devices worldwide will almost double, from 15.1 billion in 2020 to more than 29 billion IoT devices in 2030.

Managing a growing network of IoT devices can be challenging. This aspect is where an IoT connectivity management platform comes in. It is a hub to monitor and optimise the performance of IoT devices.

Let us explore how IoT connectivity platforms work and explain their features, benefits, and use cases.

What is IoT Connectivity Management in the First Place?

IoT devices send data to the cloud and other networked systems. The task of IoT connectivity management is to monitor these activities for the best results.

One way to think of it is that an IoT connectivity platform is the central nervous system of interconnected devices. It is in charge of seamless communication and operation.

Device sensors gather information and transmit it to the platform. The platform processes and analyses the data. It ensures exchange between devices and cloud servers for remote access and control.

In this way, IoT connectivity platforms ensure reliability and security. They empower businesses to reap a rich harvest from IoT deployment.

A Closer Look at How An IoT Connectivity Management Platform Works

The principal activities of an IoT connectivity solution are:

Setting Up and Onboarding

The onboarding process involves registering, activating, and configuring new devices on the IoT network. It means assigning unique identifiers, establishing credentials, and verifying integration into the ecosystem. By streamlining the process, IoT connectivity solutions ensure devices are connected quickly and efficiently.

Monitoring Connectivity

Connectivity monitoring is crucial for optimal performance. IoT connectivity solutions check device status, signal strength, and other performance metrics. They allow enterprises to address potential issues before they disrupt operations. Real-time data analytics further enhances monitoring capabilities. They provide insights into device behaviour and predict potential disruptions.

Managing Data Usage

Efficient data usage monitoring is essential because of the increasing volume of data IoT devices generate. IoT connectivity technologies monitor data consumption patterns, identify potential overuse and implement strategies to optimise data transmission. IoT connectivity solutions help control costs and ensure efficient data utilisation by tailoring data usage plans to enterprise requirements.

Enhancing Security

Protecting IoT devices from cyber threats is a critical aspect of IoT connectivity management. IoT connectivity solutions incorporate security measures. These include encryption protocols and authentication mechanisms to safeguard devices and data. Regular audits and updates further strengthen the security of IoT systems.

Together, these activities play a vital role in creating a reliable and efficient IoT connectivity solution. Enterprises can harness the full potential of their IoT deployments.

How IoT Connectivity Management Platforms Benefit Your Business

It should be clear by now that IoT connectivity management is a vital part of any IoT solution. There are several benefits.

Centralising device management and optimising data use mean that enterprises can expect lower operational expenses. Because IoT connectivity management offers a real-time look at device connectivity, enterprises can also be sure of issue detection and resolution to minimise downtime.

Further, the security features protect devices and data from cyberattacks. They also bring about compliance with industry regulations.

Finally, enterprises can make decisions based on data-driven insights. The platform provides a steady stream of analysis to enable this.

The Specific Functions of IoT Connectivity Management Systems

Enterprises can look forward to a great deal of functionality with IoT connectivity management systems. These functions include:

• Device lifecycle management to commission and handle devices during their lifespan.
• Connectivity management to regulate cellular networks and data plans.
• Security management to authenticate and authorise necessary steps for safeguarding the system
• Data management to collect and organise device data for insights.
• Reporting and analytics to spot trends, and make data-based decisions.

How Industries Implement IoT Connectivity Solutions

Companies across industries and sectors are reaping the benefits of IoT connectivity management solutions. Here is a handy table with some illustrations.

Some Helpful Use Cases of IoT Connectivity Management Platforms

What can companies expect from IoT connectivity management platforms on a day-to-day basis? Here are some examples.

1. The most common use case is managing and configuring IoT devices remotely. This process eliminates the need for on-site maintenance.
2. A key reason to implement IoT systems is real-time data monitoring. An IoT platform will collect and analyse data from sensors to deliver insights and issues.
3. Equipment failures and scheduled maintenance should not disrupt regular company operations. IoT platforms can perform predictive maintenance to plan and regulate such activities.
4. Asset tracking is another important use case. Companies can keep tabs on the location and status of assets to prevent theft and optimize resources.
5. Many industries have regulations to do with pressure, temperature and air quality. An IoT platform can measure these parameters to keep them in check.
6. When it comes to smart energy management, IoT connectivity platforms monitor and manage energy consumption in factories and buildings to reduce waste.

What Airtel IoT Connectivity Solutions Bring to the Table

Airtel’s mission is to streamline the IoT experience. It provides a unified platform for tailored solutions with connectivity technologies to suit all needs.

Backed by a history of consistently meeting customer demands, Airtel guarantees a seamless IoT journey. It is future-ready, flexible and success-oriented.

Some of Airtel’s innovative features are:

• Lifecycle management offers enterprises all they need to manage their in-field devices.
• Advanced monitoring tools and SIM diagnosis to eliminate logistical headaches.
• Simplified workflows that adhere to Indian regulatory requirements.
• Telco-grade security that protects data against threats and ensures integrity.

Compelling Reasons to Choose Airtel Connectivity Services

The above is only part of the picture. Enterprises have several more reasons to opt for Airtel as an IoT connectivity provider.

• User-friendly APIs that simplify the process of connecting an IoT ecosystem to core business systems.
• A unified dashboard to gain instant insights into the utilisation of SIM cards.
• A dedicated network to meet the needs of IoT applications and ensure reliability and security.
• Dedicated customer support to address any connectivity issues promptly.
• Scalable solutions are designed to meet the growing data and device needs of businesses.
• Multi-functional models with features for industrial, automotive and other applications.
• Support from IoT experts who guide team leaders from initial setup to issue resolution. 

IoT Connectivity Management Platforms Summed Up

The growth of IoT has reshaped business operations. Managing these devices poses challenges that are solved by IoT connectivity management platforms.

IoT connectivity technologies oversee, control, and optimise IoT device performance. They facilitate seamless communication, data analysis, and exchange between devices and cloud servers. This process is reliable, secure, and scalable for IoT applications.

The activities establish a robust IoT ecosystem. They empower enterprises to get maximum benefits from their IoT connections. From optimising production lines and tracking vehicles to managing energy consumption and enhancing customer experiences.

To discover more about how Airtel IoT solutions can turbo-charge your efforts, get in touch right away.

Airtel Business