The “Internet of Things,” also referred to as the “Web of Things” or the “Internet of Everything,” is the evolving vision of more and more devices connecting to smart networks and interacting with humans and with each other through the Internet. June 2012, the Internet switched over to Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6) to prepare for the increasing number of devices with unique IP addresses that want to transmit and receive data. In addition to the expanded Internet, key technology enablers include device miniaturization, more powerful and lower cost microprocessors, and smart sensors, location devices and actuators. Currently applications are focused primarily around smartphones as hubs of connectivity. However, an increasing number of “smart devices” and “smart sensors” are taking on an IP address and connecting to the Internet resulting in ever more complex systems and interactions. –Michèle Royer, Ph.D, Office of Economic and Workforce Development, BC

For an infographic on the Internet of Things, click here