Comparing IoT
Architectures
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oneM2M - Network Layer
The network layer focuses on communication between IoT
devices and the endpoints to which they are connected.
Includes a variety of communication technologies:
Wireless Mesh Networks: IEEE 802.15.4
Wireless Point-to-Multipoint Systems: IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi)
Wired Communication: IEEE 1901 (Power Line Communication)
Purpose: Ensures reliable and efficient data transfer across IoT
devices in diverse environments.
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Internet of Things (IoT):
The IoT ecosystem connects devices, sensors, applications, and data through
a layered architecture to enable seamless communication and operation.
Architectures serve as a framework for organizing and integrating IoT systems
across diverse applications, industries, and devices.
Two prominent IoT architectures:
oneM2M Standardized Architecture
IoT World Forum (IoTWF) Architecture
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Importance of
Understanding IoT IoT Architecture:
Architectures Provides scalability, efficiency,
and standardization in IoT
Every IoT architecture is built deployment.
around the same essential idea: Helps address interoperability
enabling data processing, issues in IoT ecosystems.
supporting IoT functionalities, Ensures data security and
and enhancing interactions reliable communication
between endpoint devices and between IoT components.
their applications.
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oneM2M IoT Standardized Architecture
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oneM2M - Applications Layer
The primary focus of the applications layer is to enhance connectivity
between IoT devices and the software applications they interact with.
This layer includes the protocols that define how devices communicate with
applications, ensuring compatibility and smooth operation.
The applications layer defines standard APIs (Application Programming
Interfaces) to enable seamless interaction between devices, business
intelligence systems, and cloud platforms.
By standardizing APIs, the oneM2M architecture supports cross-industry
IoT applications and ensures compatibility in multi-vendor environments.
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oneM2M - Services Layer
This layer is designed as a horizontal framework that spans
across vertical industry-specific applications.
It abstracts underlying complexities and provides common
services required by various IoT applications, such as device
management, data storage, and security.
Components: Includes physical networks, management
protocols, and hardware modules essential for IoT functionality.
Significance: Enables interoperability across different IoT
systems and ensures consistent performance in complex
environments.
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oneM2M IoT Standardized Architecture
Developed to provide a unified and standardized framework for
IoT systems across various industries and applications.
Divides IoT functionalities into three major layers:
1. Applications Layer
2. Services Layer
3. Network Layer
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IoT World Forum (IoTWF):
The IoTWF developed a reference model to provide a clear
and structured framework for understanding and
implementing IoT systems.
This model enables a layered approach to solving IoT
challenges and ensures better scalability, interoperability,
and security in IoT deployments.
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Key Objectives of the IoTWF
Reference Model:
Decompose the complex IoT problem into smaller, manageable parts.
Identify and connect the technologies used at each layer and their
relationships.
Allow systems to be built with components provided by different vendors.
Define interfaces that ensure interoperability across devices and platforms.
Enforce a tiered security model to protect IoT systems at every transition
point between layers.
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The Seven Layers of IoTWF Architecture :
The IoTWF reference model is divided into seven distinct layers, each
serving a specific purpose in the IoT ecosystem:
1. Physical Devices and Controllers Layer
2. Connectivity Layer
3. Edge Computing Layer
4. Data Accumulation Layer
5. Data Abstraction Layer
6. Applications Layer
7. Collaboration and Processes Layer
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IoTWF Architecture :
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Layer 1 - Physical Devices and Controllers Layer
This layer includes all the physical “things” that form the backbone of
IoT, such as sensors, actuators, and machines.
These devices generate data and often interact with their environment.
Device Range: Devices in this layer vary greatly in size, from
microscopic smart sensors to large industrial machinery.
Functionality: These devices perform two primary functions:
Generating data for further analysis.
Being controlled remotely via a network.
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Layer 2 - Connectivity Layer
The connectivity layer handles the reliable and timely transmission of
data from the physical devices to the IoT network.
Key Functions:
It ensures that data from endpoint devices reaches the right destinations
without loss or delay.
Supports various communication technologies, including wired and
wireless networks.
Examples of Connectivity Protocols:
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, LPWAN, and Ethernet.
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Layer 3 - Edge Computing Layer
Also Known As: The “Fog” Layer.
Purpose: At this layer, data is processed closer to the source to reduce
the amount of raw data sent to the cloud.
This helps minimize latency, conserve bandwidth, and improve the speed
of response.
Functions:
Data reduction: Aggregates and filters raw data to extract relevant
information.
Information conversion: Transforms real-time network data into
actionable insights.
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Layer 4 - Data Accumulation Layer
This layer captures and stores IoT data, ensuring it is readily
available for further processing.
It converts event-based data into a form that allows query-
based processing by applications.
Importance: Provides structured and accessible data for
advanced analytics, applications, and reports.
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Layer 5 - Data Abstraction Layer
Purpose: Reconciles diverse data formats from multiple sources
into a unified format. Ensures consistent semantics and
maintains the integrity of the dataset.
Functions: Consolidates data into a centralized repository or
multiple stores.
Offers data visualization for easier interpretation and usability.
Outcome: Enables a single, coherent view of the data across
the entire IoT system.
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Layer 6 - Applications Layer
Purpose: This layer interprets the collected and processed data
using specialized software applications. Applications at this layer
are responsible for monitoring, controlling devices, and
generating reports based on analyzed data.
Examples: Smart home apps, industrial automation dashboards,
and healthcare monitoring systems.
Significance: Acts as the interface between the IoT system and
the end-user, allowing decision-making and operational insights.
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Layer 7 - Collaboration and Processes Layer
Purpose: This layer focuses on sharing IoT information and
enabling collaboration among users and systems. It is the layer
where IoT data drives business processes and organizational
changes.
Functions: Facilitates multi-step workflows to derive value from
IoT data. Enables collaboration among different departments,
systems, and users.
Key Outcome: Delivers the true benefits of IoT by integrating IoT-
driven insights into business operations and decision-making.
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Key Benefits of IoTWF Architecture
Decomposition of Complex Problems: Breaks down IoT systems
into smaller, manageable components.
Technology Identification: Clearly defines the technologies
required at each layer and their relationships.
Vendor Independence: Allows system components to be sourced
from multiple vendors, ensuring flexibility.
Interoperability: Promotes integration of diverse technologies
and devices.
Security: Implements a tiered security model to protect IoT data
at all transition points.
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Comparison to oneM2M Architecture
Feature IoTWF oneM2M
Layer Count 7 Layers 3 Layers
Flexible, process-driven IoT Standardized device
Focus
integration communication
Involves abstraction and Focuses on applications, services,
Data Handling
collaboration layers and network
Ideal for tailored, complex IoT Suitable for global
Applications
deployments standardization
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Conclusion
The IoT World Forum (IoTWF) standardized architecture is a
comprehensive framework that facilitates scalable, flexible, and
secure IoT implementations.
Its seven-layer model provides a clear roadmap for building
interoperable and vendor-independent IoT solutions.
The architecture's emphasis on collaboration, data abstraction,
and security ensures that IoT systems can effectively address
real-world challenges.
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