Classification of devices is an important step in studying them, whether it is for Machine Learning, Statistical Analysis, or just counting. To classify a device I need a good definition that allows us to explain why the device fits in the category given by the definition. For example, a clock is an object that tells time. I can then categorize devices as either a clock (it tells time) or not a clock (it doesn’t tell time). This classification doesn’t preclude other activities of the devices. A microwave tells time but it also cooks food. I would still call it a clock, because it fits my definition.
My question is exactly how do I define an Internet of Things device so that a clear category is created?
I can categorize firmware, computers, or software, but the question of when a device is an Internet of Things device is a different problem given that most definitions I’ve found seem to be a variant of ‘thing that shouldn’t normally be on the Internet’. This turns a clearcut definition into a personal preference question. To some people, it is perfectly logical that their refrigerator is on the Internet. To others, it isn’t.
Personally, I think it’s really weird that my refrigerator would be on the Internet, so would I call that an IOT devices? If I go the personal preference route, then yes, it’s an IOT device. But to my neighbor who thinks it’s perfectly rational for it to be on the Internet, she might not call it an IOT device.
These devices are generally created for one purpose. A thermostat is designed to regulate temperature. It isn’t designed to regulate temperature and also act as a doorbell. It might be built on top of a Linux operating system, but it is designed to only control and monitor temperature. If I’m creating a category of Linux devices, then the thermostat would also be in that category.
I’m going to define IOT devices as those devices created for one purpose.
Simple, easy, and to the point. It’s not subject to personal preference, it’s an easy categorization. Desktop computers are designed for multipurpose, while a refrigerator isn’t. It also takes away the question of Operating System. A toaster may be running Linux, but that doesn’t change that it’s fundamental purpose is to toast bread.
If you start with this definition, what can you say about the trends in IOT devices? What do you think the next problem we’ll see with IOT devices? Mirai was quite the mess, using IOT devices to DDOS the Internet, are there other dangers we should be worried about?
Write a Field Note and submit it to DTRAP at https://dtrap.acm.org/ and let us know what you think.