The IoT (Internet of Things), which refers to all kinds of objects and devices connected to the Internet, is no longer science fiction — it’s a reality that makes our lives easier. Virtually anything can be connected to the Internet and interact without human intervention. Depending on the source, it was estimated that by 2020 there would be between 20 and 50 billion connected devices, and this figure is expected to rise to over 125 billion by 2030. The possible applications are almost endless, and the industries adopting this technology are growing by the day.

But IoT isn’t just a consumer-focused technology aimed at simplifying everyday life. Talking about IoT also means talking about Industry 4.0 — or what we know as the IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things). According to the Industrial Communication Report, there were 90 million industrial IoT devices deployed globally in 2016. That number was projected to grow to 150 million by 2021.

Industrial IoT doesn’t necessarily involve large systems or machines managing complex processes. It can also include small sensor-based devices that provide data, alerts, and insights — enabling simple automated actions or supporting daily business analysis and protocol execution.

• Remote Infrastructure Maintenance: remote maintenance is essential for companies with multiple operating sites or dispersed assets. IoT platforms that integrate with Building Management Systems (BMS) are rapidly growing. IoT enables different BMS vendor systems to connect under a single network, reducing O&M (operation and maintenance) costs by minimizing unnecessary technician travel. Companies like Barbara IoT are leading this with remote infrastructure solutions, such as their projects with Bind4.0.

• Energy Efficiency Optimization: IoT is transforming energy production, delivery, and consumption. Devices such as electric chargers, inverters, and switches — connected through IoT gateways — deliver advanced analytics and rich datasets. This allows energy companies to manage assets dynamically, reduce maintenance costs, and improve safety. Barbara IoT has developed industrial IoT solutions to monitor the performance of solar panels with high granularity.

• Edge Intelligence: Edge computing processes data at the source before sending only essential results to the cloud — saving bandwidth and costs. This is common with smart cameras that detect, identify, or count objects and people. Since the COVID-19 crisis, edge intelligence has gained demand for strategic monitoring — such as school entrances or retail centers. Barbara OS supports this with secure connectivity and remote-deployed containerized edge applications.

• Predictive Failure Detection: IoT and AI are key enablers for predictive maintenance. Detecting failures early — and resolving them before they happen — can save up to 40% in maintenance costs. Predictive maintenance improves efficiency by identifying recurring errors, using historical data to forecast long-term failures. This often involves vibration, motion, sound, or temperature sensors securely connected through platforms like Barbara OS.

• Railway Sector Monitoring: Today’s railway networks require thousands of sensors to monitor material conditions and track performance. This data is critical for operations and maintenance teams. Although highly regulated, IoT is slowly penetrating the rail industry. Barbara OS ensures compliance with railway safety standards while enabling efficient and secure IIoT deployment.