Your Guide to IoT Device Management + Best Platforms in 2023

The IoT has completely changed the way we connect with our gadgets and how they communicate with one another. Everything from smart thermostats to sensors in factories are examples of IoT devices. The problem is that keeping track of all these linked gadgets is becoming harder and harder as time goes on.

IoT device management is a solution that allows you to take control of your IoT gadgets. It helps with managing your IoT devices entails putting them up, keeping an eye on them, and fixing any problems that arise. This guarantees that they perform as expected, are safe, and can be easily maintained in the event of a problem.

Small and big networks need effective IoT device management. But how do you do that? Here’s how.

What Is IoT Device Management?

IoT device management is the process of controlling all aspects of a connected device from a single location. Everything from CCTV cameras and sensors to portals and processors may be used in this process. Services like registration and identification, stock control, and firmware upgrades are all supported by IoT device management. Support for remote administration and troubleshooting is also included.

The collection of location and use data from managed IoT devices is an essential part of device management. Data analysis and subsequent maintenance, repair, optimization, or replacement are also part of this process. Incorporating additional IoT devices into mission-critical processes increases the need for effective cost management.

What are the Benefits of IoT Device Management for Businesses?

As a to-go hub for all of your devices, IoT device management is a must for embedded system developers. The key advantages of managing IoT devices are as follows.

Efficiency & Productivity

Managing IoT devices may boost productivity and efficiency. Tracking inventories and assets, monitoring consumer behavior, and enhancing employee safety are just some of the many uses for an IoT management system.

Efficiency also includes making the most of the resources in your control. Certain connected gadgets might be rather power-intensive. Improving their energy efficiency may have a significant impact on your bottom line. You can track the energy used by your connected devices and make adjustments to your ecosystem with the help of several IoT management platforms.

Higher Security

Tools for managing IoT devices can lower the risk of cybercrime and data leaks. One simple technique to reduce the possibility of any harm to your IoT devices is to monitor who is using them and how.

P2P networking also contributes to the safety of IoT data storage. The data is encrypted from the moment it leaves the source until it reaches its ultimate endpoint since it never touches a third-party server. As a result, it is always safe from attack. 

Saving Money

Every company's priority should be to save costs whenever possible. The data collected by your IoT devices can be used to automate repetitive operations, identify areas of improvement in your company's operations, and guide your decisions. 

With a suitable pricing structure, the right partner can provide one of the most affordable and reliable IoT device management services. And instead of storing information in a complex central database, they just utilize the cloud to facilitate interactions. This allows you to save money compared to other solutions.

Increased customer satisfaction

In today's data-driven society, a company's capacity to use and protect client data is of utmost importance. You can identify exactly where to put in your time to increase customer satisfaction based on the information gathered from your consumers. 

However, if this data is not kept safe, not only might you face fines and other penalties, but you could also lose the confidence of your customers. With P2P networking, your customers' data remains entirely under their control, preventing it from falling into the wrong hands.

Zero Latency 

Also, modern consumers expect rapid responses from their electronic devices. However, many IoT systems have high latency because of the time it takes for data transfer and processing. On the other hand, P2P networking greatly minimizes or even eliminates delay. This means connections are synchronized. When you adjust the temperature in your home using the app on the phone, the changes happen instantly. 

With so many benefits, it's clear that managing IoT devices is crucial for modern organizations to thrive in the digital era.

IoT Device Management Tips

Businesses will need reliable tools for managing IoT devices. Here are five tips for managing your IoT devices with less hassle:

Keep Quality Standards High

The cloud is becoming an essential aspect of modern device management. Having reliable internet and cloud services to back up your devices' connection demands is crucial as more and more corporate processes migrate to the cloud.

When planning the web and cloud services, keep in mind the following:

• Check to see that your bandwidth can handle the heavy load of managing your IoT devices.
• Find a cloud host that guarantees availability and has excellent customer care.
• Make sure the cloud company you choose has the security options you need to keep your data safe.
• Make sure your Internet of Things device management software works with your cloud of choice. When it comes to controlling devices, the compatibility will make everything go off without a hitch.

Use Sensors for Real-time Monitoring

One of the most crucial features of proper control of IoT devices is real-time monitoring. You can monitor the health and efficiency of your gadgets in real-time by attaching sensors to them. Use this information to spot possible issues before they grow into serious problems.

You can pair your gadgets with a broad range of sensors, some of which are for temperature, pressure, motion, etc.

Sensors are used in devices to keep eyes on a wide range of factors, so picking the right kinds is crucial. You may want to put in multiple types of sensors. It gives you a more complete picture of the condition of your gadget.

Once sensors are installed, data collection and analysis software must be in place to use the data.

There are multiple techniques to obtain sensor data:

• Manually. Requires manually going through the sensors and entering the data into a database.
• Automatic. sensors' readings are gathered and stored in a database via a software system.
• Analyzing the data. Uses a data analysis platform to process sensor readings.

Data is analyzed to reveal patterns and trends. Therefore, you're in a better position to use your electronics with the click of a button.

Update all installed programs and applications

Updating hardware and software is a crucial part of managing your IoT devices effectively. To make sure everything is running well, always use the most recent versions of your hardware and software. You will also be fixing any security holes that may have been discovered during IoT & IIoT development.

You may upgrade your gadgets in a few different ways. A common practice is to utilize a platform designed for managing devices. It can simplify the process of software updates for your gadgets. Over-the-air (OTA) is another innovative choice. When using Over-the-Air updates, gadgets can be upgraded wirelessly.

Always Be On The Lookout For Potential Security Risks

Remember that just because your smart gadget can connect to the web doesn't mean it's safe. There are several security holes in the setup of IoT devices. That's why it's crucial to carry out periodic scans of all your network devices for any signs of malicious activity.

Securing a device is easier with a device management ecosystem that includes security tools. Using these tools, you may instantly find and fix any weaknesses in security.

Partner With the Right Team

There is massive potential in IoT, but trustworthy IoT partners are essential for fully realizing the potential of these IoT innovations. The demand for reliable, secure, and affordable IoT solutions is increasing rapidly as the number of IoT devices in the globe keeps growing rapidly.

Reputable IoT partners like LANARS’s expert team offer the backend, platforms, and services required to manage and protect IoT devices, guaranteeing continuous service and unaltered data. Global reach, specialization, and customized support are just some of the benefits they provide to businesses.

Get a Device Management Platform

With an abundance of connected devices, there are greater challenges for software engineers, particularly in the areas of device management and maintenance. As you have more and more devices to monitor, a device management platform becomes more useful.

There are several options when it comes to device management systems; pick one that works for your particular task. You should think about the devices you're controlling, how much authority you need, and how scalable the platform is.

Top 5 Platforms

With proper IoT device management software, you can relax knowing that those devices are always working while cutting costs and saving time. Here are some suggestions:

AWS IoT Core

The AWS IoT Core is a cloud system for Internet of Things (IoT) software. It can connect devices, manage them, and process data safely. Working with various AWS tools like Lambda, AWS IoT Core speeds up the development of even the most sophisticated IoT apps.

Features:

• You can handle and manage devices easily and consistently with no need for manual server setup or management.
• Use full encryption and two-factor authentication to keep your data and networks secure.
• Send and receive messages from your IoT apps and devices quickly and securely.
• Take immediate action on, filter, and convert data from mobile devices based on preset business criteria.
• Device Shadow allows you to save the current state of a connected device and retrieve it later for adjustment or inspection.

Azure IoT Hub

When it comes to connecting devices with the cloud, this is a solid option. It ensures the connected devices and the backend services can communicate with each other safely and reliably. To transmit and receive data from any connected IoT device, Azure IoT Hub offers a safe and reliable connection route.

Features:

• Each connected device may have its own set of credentials and identity for extra safety.
• Automating device registration and supply helps speed up IoT adoption.

Bosch IoT Suite

When it comes to Internet of Things (IoT) applications, Bosch has you set with their cloud-based IoT solution. Bosch's IoT Suite is compatible with a wide range of protocols, including MQTT and CoAP. 

Features:

• With Bosch's IoT Suite, systems from various IoT sectors may communicate with one another without any hitches.
• The platform's robust analytics capabilities allow users to extract actionable insights from IoT data and make decisions based on empirical evidence. 
• Bosch IoT Suite prioritizes safety by implementing many layers of protection, such as E2E encryption and certificates for log-in and registration.

Bytebeam

Bytebeam may be the best option for you if you want a versatile and customizable IoT system. It has numerous options for connecting, managing, and monitoring IoT devices that are tailored to the needs of small and large companies.

Features:

• The ability for organizations to remotely track and manage their connected devices. This consists of the ability to upgrade the firmware, get warnings and messages, and see real-time statistics.
• Easily connect and exchange data across systems thanks to third-party interfaces with popular cloud services, corporate applications, and IoT platforms including AWS.
• Bytebeam is built with security in mind, with elements like E2E encryption, multi-factor authentication, and role-based permissions. Users may take extra measures by integrating other IoT security systems.
• Bytebeam's ability to accommodate thousands of sensors and data points makes it a great fit for enterprises hoping to expand their IoT infrastructure. There are extra personalization options for specific company needs, taking an individual approach to each industry.

Cisco IoT

This cloud solution was originally developed for mobile carriers, but it now has wide adoption for managing IoT devices in businesses and by individuals. Devices like routers, switches, and access points are all offered and guaranteed to work.

Features:

• Cisco IoT's network connection alternatives are extensive and include anything from cellular to LPWAN, enabling unrestricted device-to-device communication.
• Cisco IoT supports preventive problem-solving by tracking device health, efficiency, and condition in real-time.
• It provides an effective way for connecting devices to a network and only allows authorized ones to do so.
• Integrating Cisco's data analytics technologies, the platform generates insights that may be used to better manage resources and increase productivity.

Possible Challenges: What Are They?

The entire process of managing IoT devices begins with acquisition and finishes with deactivation. Managing costs and other financial factors are also part of this cycle. The wide range of manufacturers, suppliers, and IoT technologies only adds to the complexity of this task. Here are just four possible challenges:

Inventory Management

Managing the inventory is keeping track of where items are kept, how often they are used, and how much they cost. Finance and IT executives gain a lot from this level of transparency. It is important for businesses to keep an eye on all the money spent on IoT devices. They cannot do that without a clear, real-time estimate of the inventory.

Compliance

Keeping up with regulations and laws about data privacy and cybersecurity is essential for every device used in IoT.

Your IT department must be able to monitor the settings, updates, and security procedures of all devices. When moving into new territories, businesses need to keep an eye on local regulations.

Update & Maintenance

It's possible that hardware and/or software on a connected device may need checking and fixing. Having a live help desk available for workers to use when they have problems is essential. With a growing number of devices coming into the workplace, it may become difficult to keep up with maintenance and upgrades. Different devices have different operating systems, contract terms, and schedules. There must be a centralized, low-cost way for businesses to monitor this behavior.

Cost

It is important for businesses to keep tabs on and control the money spent on IoT devices. Mobile phone bills, transactions, and charges fall under this category. All financial data must be easy to find, sorted properly, and updated instantly. When that happens, businesses have enough data to make sound decisions regarding improvements, alternatives, and investments. 

FAQ

How to control IoT devices and why do we need them?

Security for internet- or cloud-connected devices is crucial since hackers may potentially get access to them otherwise. It boosts the efficiency of particular devices. It keeps tabs on the health of everything from printers and scanners to hard disk drivers and more. It does a good job of allocating and freeing up the device.

What is IoT device control?

When it comes to managing and monitoring your devices and sensors, having everything you need in one centralized location may make your life much easier. This is where an IoT device management platform comes in.

Why should we be careful about partnering with a third-party provider?

You have to be careful because your partner can speed up or delay your project, improve your security, leave holes, and waste or save you a lot of money. 

How much does it cost?

It all depends on your specific partner and the scale or complexity of your project. If you’re looking for an accurate quote, we’re more than happy to give you one.