Introduction to IoT vs M2M
Technology advancement is occurring at a rapid pace and so does technology innovation. “M2M” and “IOT” are 2 innovation terms which are common discussion points of the technical innovation community.
Notable is that M2M may be called the predecessor of IoT. Let’s understand the terms & difference in M2M and IOT in more detail.
M2M or Machine to Machine –
M2M concept refers to two or more machines can communicate with each other and carry out certain functions without human intervention. Some degree of intelligence can be observed in the M2M model. Some of key applications which leverage M2M technology to provide services are –
- Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
- Supply Chain Management (SCM)
- Harvesting energy like oil and gas
- Customer billing like smart meters
- Traffic control
- telemedicine
- Remote monitoring
IoT or Internet of Things –
IoT refers is an ecosystem of connected devices (via the Internet) where the devices have the ability to collect and transfer data over a network automatically without human intervention. IoT helps objects to interact with internal and/or external environment which in turn control the decision making. Some of applications and services of IOT Technology are –
- Smart Home
- Connected cars
- Agriculture and Retail
- Smart cities
- Healthcare
- Poultry and Farming
If you’re planning to use this advanced technology for your business, now is the right time. You can create a secure web or mobile application making the processes convenient for your business. If you’re unclear about IoT’s potential, here is a short piece on the internet of things for software development that might help you know how IoT works for any business. Find more information about IoT here.
IoT vs M2M : The Difference
M2M solutions contain a linear communication channel between various machines that enables them to form a work cycle. It’s more of a cause and effect relation where one action triggers the other machinery into activity. Conversely, in case of IoT, multiple devices communicate with each other through sensors and digital connectivity.
While M2M (machine to machine) is commonly associated with isolated solutions like a solution of Wi-Fi thermostats, a vehicle location system or home automation, IoT (Internet of Things) works by stretching its boundaries and integrating multiple disparate systems into outputs beneficial for Business goals.
Another key differentiator is that M2M’s key focus is on direct point-to-point connectivity across mobile networks or fixed-line while IoT communication involves IP networks and will usually employ cloud or middleware platforms.
When we consider the scalability in M2M vs IoT, clearly IOT wins the race since it works on Cloud-based architecture and as we know Cloud can expand substantially.
Also, IoT makes use of Open APIs for communication across distinct systems while M2M mostly has limited or no open APIs.
Comparison Table: IoT vs M2M
Below table summarizes the differences between the two:
Download the difference table IOT vs M2M.
Hope you would have understood the difference between IoT and M2M from the above comparison table.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I am here to share my knowledge and experience in the field of networking with the goal being – “The more you share, the more you learn.”
I am a biotechnologist by qualification and a Network Enthusiast by interest. I developed interest in networking being in the company of a passionate Network Professional, my husband.
I am a strong believer of the fact that “learning is a constant process of discovering yourself.”
– Rashmi Bhardwaj (Author/Editor)
