ABSTRACT
The Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized the way devices and systems interact and communicate, leading to the emergence of smart homes, smart cities, smart industries, and various applications. Wireless connectivity is at the heart of IoT, enabling seamless communication between devices and facilitating data exchange. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the wireless protocols and technologies that form the foundation of IoT networks. This chapter explores the fundamental concepts and technologies related to Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) technologies, Internet Protocol (IP)-based networking protocols, and various network and communication aspects in the context of the IoT. The chapter begins by introducing WPAN technologies, which are crucial for connecting IoT devices in close proximity. It covers the most prominent WPAN technologies such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, and Z-Wave, highlighting their features, capabilities, and application scenarios. The discussion encompasses their network topologies, communication ranges, data rates, power consumption considerations, and interoperability aspects. Moreover, it explores the challenges and considerations involved in selecting and deploying WPAN technologies for IoT applications. Next, the chapter delves into IP-based networking protocols for IoT. It emphasizes the importance of leveraging IP as a standardized communication framework for connecting and managing IoT devices at a global scale. It explores protocols such as IPv6, 6LoWPAN, CoAP, and MQTT, providing insights into their architectures, addressing schemes, routing mechanisms, and resource-constrained device support. Additionally, it highlights the benefits of utilizing IP-based protocols for seamless integration of IoT devices into existing network infrastructures and the internet. Furthermore, the chapter addresses various network and communication aspects that are crucial for building robust and efficient IoT systems. It covers topics such as network topologies (star, mesh, and hybrid), network management, security considerations (authentication, encryption, and secure key exchange), quality of service (QoS) provisions, and scalability. It also explores emerging trends in IoT networking, including edge computing, fog computing, and software-defined networking (SDN), along with their impact on IoT deployments. Throughout the chapter, real-world examples, case studies, and practical implementation considerations are presented to enhance the reader’s understanding of WPAN technologies, IP-based networking protocols, and the network and communication aspects specific to IoT applications. By the end of the chapter, readers will have gained a comprehensive overview of the key concepts, technologies, and considerations necessary for designing and deploying reliable and scalable IoT networks.
