IoT vs M2M (difference between IoT and M2M)
We’ve heard a lot about the Internet of Things (IoT) and all its advantages, benefits for adopters, product developers and service providers alike, but there are some confusion among techies between IoT and machine-to-machine (M2M) communication.
Internet of Things (IoT)
IoT can be defined as a system where multiple devices communicate with each other through sensors and digital connectivity. They talk to each other, work in tandem, and form a combined network of services.
Want to understand more about the Internet of Things, just read this Internet of things definition
See also: Explanation of IoT working with examples
Machine-to-Machine (M2M) Communications:
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.
Techies define M2M ( Machine-to-Machine) communication is a part of IoT, while others like to call the Internet of things as an evolved version of the machine to machine.
Either way, the conclusion is that IoT is a broader term than M2M solutions as it encompasses much more technology and connectivity.
Here are the key differences between both, these will help you to remove confusion in between the Internet of Things and Machine to Machine communication.
Difference between IoT and M2M
| Sr. No. | M2M | IoT |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Definition | 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. | IoT can be defined as a system where multiple devices communicate with each other through sensors and digital connectivity. They talk to each other, work in tandem, and form a combined network of services. |
| 2. Interactions | M2M refers to communication and interaction between machines & devices Such Interaction can occur via a cloud computing Infrastructure e.g. devices exchanging information through cloud infrastructure | IoT has broader scope than M2M, since it comprises broader range of interactions, including interactions between devices /things , things and people, things with applications and people with applications. It also enables composition of workflows comprising all of the above interactions |
| 3. Interactivity | Machine to machine solutions operate by triggering responses based on an action. It’s mainly a one-way communication. | the key advantage IoT has over M2M solutions is the ability to add interactivity amongst devices. In this system to and fro communication flows freely. There can be countless scenarios and combinations. |
| 4. Connectivity Scope | M2M solutions rely primarily on conventional connection tools like wired connection , in wireless wifi , cellular , etc | IoT adds more sophisticated sensors into the mix. its result, Internet of Things based systems have much more flexible and varied connectivity options. |
| 5. Solutions | M2M solutions, because of their limited scope, are confined to creating a network of machines that work in synchronization. | On the other hand, IoT creates 360° solutions that allow for flexible responses and multi-level communication. |
| 6. Communications | Point to point communication usually embedded within hardware at customer site | Devices communicate using IP networks, incorporating with varying communication protocols |
| 7. Integration | Limited integration option , as devices must have corresponding communication standards | Unlimited integration options, but requires a solution that can manage all the communications |
See also: Looking to the future with AI machine learning and IoT
Additional Points
M2M is a term introduced by the telecommunications service providers and pays emphasis on machines interactions via one or more telecom/communication network (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, satellite communication, public network)
M2M is a part of IoT, while Machine to Machine standards have a prominent place in the Internet of Things standards landscape.
Machine to Machine communication offers a means for managing devices and devices interaction while also collecting machine and /or sensor data.
The Internet of Things has a broader scope than M2M since it comprises a broader range of interactions
IoT include the notion of Internet connectivity but is not focused on the use of telecom networks
See also: LTE and 5G: What exactly these are? Same or different?
Hope you get clarity on both the M2M vs IoT and if I missed any point related M2M and IoT difference, please suggest me here in below comment section, I would like to hear from you and want to improve this post.
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