Chapter 8.1 : IoT Vibes & Struggles: What’s Holding Back the Ultimate Smart Glow-Up?

Hello everyone! fae here again! today we will be discussing about the issues and challenges of the Internet of Things (IoT) This will deepen our understanding on how IoT affects us. This blog will consist msotly of the things that I got from reading teh whole article.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a game-changer, connecting devices like smart thermostats, wearables, and city sensors to make life smoother and more efficient. The article "Internet of Things (IoT): Opportunities, issues and challenges towards a smart and sustainable future" by Nižetić et al. (2020), published on NCBI (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7368922/), dives into IoT’s potential for a sustainable, smart world while laying out the roadblocks. This report breaks down the key issues and challenges—technical, security, societal, and environmental—that IoT faces, keeping it real and relatable.

  • Technical Roadblocks

IoT is all about connecting billions of devices, but that scale brings big tech headaches. The article points out scalability as a major issue. Current networks, like 4G, can’t handle the massive data flow from countless devices. While 5G could help, rolling it out everywhere—especially in rural spots—is pricey and slow. Another vibe-killer is interoperability. Devices speak different “languages” (protocols), so getting them to vibe together, like in a smart city, is tough without universal standards.

Then there’s energy efficiency. Many IoT gadgets, like sensors in forests or farms, run on batteries. Keeping them powered without constant swaps is a puzzle. The article suggests energy harvesting (think solar or motion power), but those techs aren’t fully ready. These technical challenges demand next-level innovation to keep IoT from crashing.

  • Security and Privacy Drama

IoT’s connectivity is cool but opens the door to cyberattacks. The article flags that many devices have weak security—like basic passwords or no encryption—making them hacker bait. Think of the Mirai botnet, where hacked IoT devices tanked major websites. This isn’t just tech trouble; it’s a trust breaker.

Privacy is another mess. IoT devices collect tons of personal data, often without clear permission. Smart speakers or cameras might accidentally spill your private moments. The article stresses that unclear data policies and lax protections fuel distrust. Fixing this means stronger encryption, better consent rules, and being upfront with users, but coordinating that across companies is no easy feat.

  • Societal and Economic Tea

IoT isn’t just tech—it’s a societal shift, and not everyone’s on board. Cost is a huge barrier. Building IoT systems, like smart grids or healthcare networks, is hella expensive. The article notes that small businesses or poorer regions can’t afford the setup, creating a digital gap. This risks leaving some communities stuck in the slow lane.

Public vibes also matter. Automation from IoT, like in factories, can cut jobs, sparking pushback. Plus, privacy scandals make people side-eye smart tech. The article says educating folks about IoT’s benefits and addressing ethical concerns is key, but that takes time and effort to shift mindsets.

  • Environmental Shade

IoT could help the planet—like optimizing energy in smart cities—but it’s got an eco-dark side. The article highlights energy consumption from devices and data centers, which pumps out carbon. Plus, e-waste is a growing issue. IoT gadgets often have short lives, and tossing them improperly releases toxic stuff. Sustainable designs, like recyclable materials or low-power tech, are needed, but the industry’s not fully there yet.

IoT has the potential to be a total glow-up for how we live, but it’s got serious challenges. Technical issues like scalability, interoperability, and energy use need innovative fixes. Security and privacy risks demand bulletproof protections and transparency to keep users safe. Societal barriers, like costs and mistrust, call for inclusivity and education. And environmental concerns push for greener practices. The article makes it clear: IoT’s future depends on teamwork between techies, governments, and communities to tackle these hurdles. Only then can IoT deliver its promised smart, sustainable slay. How about you? try reading the article, give me your thoughts on the comments below!


Love lots💗, 

Fae

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