The term Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the network of physical devices, or “things,” that are integrated with sensors, software, and other technologies in order to communicate and share data with other internet-connected devices and systems.

For industry innovators and organisations looking to establish IoT solutions, the first step is to identify the key terms that characterise this movement.

• IoT – IoT stands for Internet of Things. It refers to the network of physical devices, vehicles, appliances, and other objects embedded with sensors, software, and connectivity, allowing them to collect and exchange data.
• IMEI – IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. It is a unique identification number assigned to a mobile device. IMEI is used to track and identify devices on cellular networks.
• ICCID – ICCID stands for Integrated Circuit Card Identifier. It is a unique serial number assigned to a SIM card that identifies it on mobile networks.
• Gateway – A gateway is a device or software that acts as an access point between different networks, enabling communication and data exchange between them.
• IoT Control Platform – An IoT control platform is a software solution that allows users to manage and control their IoT devices, collect and analyze data, and automate processes.
• Low Power Wide Area (LPWAN) – LPWAN is a wireless communication technology designed for long-range and low-power consumption. It enables IoT devices to transmit data over long distances while conserving battery life.
• LTE-M – LTE-M (Long-Term Evolution for Machines) is a cellular network technology specifically designed for IoT devices. It offers efficient and cost-effective connectivity for devices with low to moderate data requirements.
• Machine to Machine (M2M) – M2M refers to direct communication between devices without human intervention. It allows machines to exchange information and perform tasks automatically.
• Narrow Band IoT (NB-IoT) – NB-IoT is a low-power, wide-area network technology designed for IoT devices. It provides reliable and secure connectivity for devices with low data rates and long battery life.
• eSIM – An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a SIM card that is embedded directly into a device. It eliminates the need for a physical SIM card and allows for remote provisioning and management of the device’s connectivity.
• Industrial IoT (IIoT) – IIoT refers to the use of IoT technologies in industrial settings. It involves connecting and integrating various devices, sensors, and systems to improve efficiency, productivity, and safety.
• Wearable – Wearables are IoT devices that can be worn on the body, such as smartwatches, fitness trackers, and health monitors. They collect data about the user’s activities, health, and location.
• Regional Breakout – Regional breakout refers to the process of routing network traffic from an IoT device to a region-specific server or data center for localized processing or storage.
• Access Point – An access point is a device that enables wireless devices to connect to a wired network, typically providing Wi-Fi connectivity.
• Telematics – Telematics is the combination of telecommunications and informatics. It involves using technology to transmit, receive, and store information about vehicles, such as GPS data, vehicle diagnostics, and driver behavior.
• IP Address – An IP address is a unique numerical identifier assigned to each device connected to a computer network, allowing it to be identified and communicate with other devices on the internet.
• IoT Module – An IoT module is a hardware component that incorporates communication capabilities, such as cellular connectivity or Wi-Fi, into an IoT device.
• Modem – A modem is a device that converts digital signals from a computer or IoT device into analog signals that can be transmitted over a telephone or cable line and vice versa.
• Router – A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks. It acts as a central hub for directing traffic and managing communication between devices on a network.
• API – API stands for Application Programming Interface. It is a set of rules and protocols that allows different software applications to communicate and interact with each other.
• APN – APN stands for Access Point Name. It is a network identifier that allows an IoT device to connect to a specific cellular network, enabling data transmission.
• Cold Chain – Cold chain refers to the process of managing and monitoring the temperature-controlled storage and transportation of perishable goods, such as food, vaccines, and pharmaceuticals, to maintain their quality and integrity.
• IPsec – IPsec stands for Internet Protocol Security. It is a set of protocols and standards used to secure internet communications by encrypting and authenticating IP packets.
• MNO – MNO stands for Mobile Network Operator. It is a telecommunications provider that owns and operates the infrastructure necessary to provide mobile communication services to customers.
• Steered SIM – A steered SIM refers to a SIM card that is programmed to prioritize connection to a specific network or operator over others.
• Unsteered SIM – An unsteered SIM refers to a SIM card that is not programmed to preferentially connect to a specific network or operator, allowing it to connect to any available network.
• Network Whitelisting – Network whitelisting is a security measure that allows only you to access pre approved websites