Are you ready to monitor the Internet of Things?
The Internet of Things (IoT) is stealing a lot of headlines today, and much of it is due to its truly impressive growth numbers. For example, according to Cisco Systems, in 2008, there were already more "things" connected to the Internet than people, and by 2020, the number of Internet-connected things is projected to reach 50 billion.
What does this rising growth in IoT-connected devices mean for your network? Because there could be many additional devices that need to be monitored in the future, this could make network monitoring more time consuming and complex. For some, this may seem like an incredible challenge, but by planning and taking action now you can get ready to face this challenge of the future. So what can you do today to get ready for the future rush of IoT devices?
These seven tips will help you to get "IoT ready" in network monitoring:
- Envision what IoT will mean for your business -- The Internet of Things will change some businesses more than others. A professional services firm might focus on integrating a smart thermostat, while a manufacturer will face the challenge of unifying a number of disparate systems, machinery and devices on the factory floor. Can you envision what your business, and your company’s network, will need the most?
- Prepare to integrate -- Some connected devices will be designed to fit neatly into networks, but others will be homegrown and rely heavily on customization. With all these different device types, integration becomes a challenge. Be ready to bring all connected devices under one roof so they can be accurately monitored.
- Understand the protocols -- There are three main protocols that are used to connect the Internet of Things: Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), REST APIs, and XML. With a stronger understanding of how devices interact, you’ll be able to design better network architectures, which makes monitoring that much easier.
- Be ready for old and new devices -- Not every connected device is the latest and greatest hardware from industry-leading companies. Many devices are outdated, especially in industrial settings, or are connected by small computers like Raspberry Pi. You need to understand the many different hardware requirements and identify how to connect each device, even if they’re from the last century.
- Recognize that anything with an IP address can be hacked -- Today’s hackers are both fearless and creative, a dangerous combination for IT departments. Anything with an IP address can be hacked, and the Internet of Things widens the threat vector. Before you connect any device to the network, have a security plan in place.
- Customize -- One exciting aspect of the IoT is that there is almost no limit to what can be connected. For network monitoring, that creates challenges that can be solved by creating new sensors and custom reports. This is especially true in industrial settings, where data extracted from devices can be used to make business processes smarter and more efficient. Be ready to build custom solutions that can solve these monitoring problems.
- Be flexible -- The IoT could be the biggest challenge network administrators have faced since cloud services and BYOD. There will be pressure from leadership to tackle this "next big thing" in IT. You will have to be both patient and flexible to handle the complex challenges of monitoring a network of connected devices and deal with the pressure to “get it done.”
Overall, network administrators will play a key role in making the IoT a reality by getting their networks in position to support the rapid rise of connected devices. They will be at the forefront of the integration process and play a key role in making connected devices functional and useful.
Photo credit: Odua Images / Shutterstock
Christian Twardawa is Chief Operating Officer at Paessler AG, a provider of network monitoring software based in Nuremberg, Germany.