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10 Most Commonly Used IoT Protocols List - A Detailed Guide

10 Most Commonly Used IoT Protocols List - A Detailed Guide

By Upskill Campus
Published Date:   12th July, 2024 Uploaded By:    Priyanka Yadav
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The Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized the world, bringing forth an abundance of interconnected devices. This guide will explain the multiple lists these devices talk to each other, which is essential to making them work well together. We'll cover the top 10 IoT protocols list used by all sorts of things, from fitness trackers to factory machines.

 

Understanding IoT Standards and Protocols

 

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a giant conversation between devices, sensors, apps, and more. These devices need a unique language to understand each other. With the help of the IoT communication protocols, it is possible. They're the rules that ensure everyone's on the same page.
 

Without the presence of these protocols, the existence of the advanced IoT gadgets we encounter daily would be inaccessible. They allow devices to send data, receive commands, and work together seamlessly. This guide will explore some of the most essential protocols businesses are using in 2024 to build the future of IoT.

 

What are the Multiple Layers Used in IoT Connectivity Protocols?

 

The following section will discuss the different layers required in IoT standards and protocols. After that, we will explore the prominent concept, the IoT protocols list. The IoT network works with multiple layers, each layer with a specific role in communication.
 

  • Top Layer or Application Layer - Defines how devices talk to apps using protocols like MQTT or HTTP.
  • Middle Layer or Transport Layer - Ensures data gets delivered without errors (TCP, UDP).
  • Base Layer or Network Layer - Figures out how to send information between devices (IPv6).
  • Data Link Layer - It deals with the physical movement of data (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth).
  • Physical Layer - The wires, radios, or light beams that carry the data.

 

IoT Protocols List

 

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a significant mix-and-match of additional gadgets and apps. Moreover, it needs lots of little sensors to capture all sorts of data, so these sensors need to be small and use very little battery power to send information. That way, it can focus on getting the most data without worrying about super-fast speeds or high security. Here, we will define various Internet of Things protocols list. 

 

#1. Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol (XMPP)

 

A unique language that lets all sorts of devices chat with each other is the XMPP. Moreover, It's a free and open way for devices to send information back and forth. As a result, this is useful for things like instant messaging apps but also for all sorts of machines in the Internet of Things (IoT) to talk to each other.
 

XMPP works by giving each device a unique ID, like an email address. In addition, it lets them send messages securely and reliably. Plus, it's flexible. Experts can adjust XMPP to fit different needs, whether sending a quick text message or sharing more complex data.

 

#2. Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) 

 

MQTT is a unique messaging system for devices in the Internet of Things (IoT). It can publish messages, and others can subscribe to listen. Apart from that, MQTT is simple, so it doesn't drain the batteries of these little devices.


However, MQTT isn't perfect. It doesn’t have a set way to format messages or manage the devices themselves. That means different companies might do things a little differently. Plus, there's no built-in security, so extra care needs to be taken to keep things safe. But overall, MQTT is a handy way for all sorts of small devices to chat with each other in the world of IoT.

 

#3. Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP)

 

The IoT protocols list contains Constrained Application Protocols. In addition, the internet runs on a language called HTTP. That's not efficient for tiny devices in the Internet of Things (IoT) that need to save power.


COAP protocol is a unique, slimmed-down version of HTTP designed for these little gadgets. It lets them exchange information effortlessly without wasting battery life. However, it makes CoAP perfect for things like smart thermostats and building automation systems, where tiny devices need to communicate without using enough power.

 

#4. AMQP (Advanced Message Queuing Protocol)

 

AMQP is significant for essential stuff but not ideal for everything. For tiny devices in the Internet of Things (IoT), AMQP is just too much. These small devices cannot support additional weight. Therefore, while AMQP is suitable for high-security scenarios, it is not the most suitable option for the Internet of Things. In short, they are IoT security protocols.

 

#5. DDS (Data Distribution Service)

 

DDS is flexible. Moreover, it can use through all sorts of devices, from tiny sensors to an immense computer in the cloud. As a result, this makes it perfect for situations where devices need to talk to each other very quickly and reliably, like in factory robots or self-driving cars.


One advanced thing about DDS is that it lets devices from different companies understand each other, no matter what computer chip or program they use. That's because DDS is a common language for devices, agreed upon by experts worldwide. However, it makes it easier to build systems where all gadgets can work together seamlessly.

 

#6. HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol)

 

We talked about HTTP before, the language the web uses. Remember how it's not ideal for tiny devices because it uses enough power? In big factories with 3D printers, HTTP is a good fit. These printers need to send a lot of data to computers to create those advanced 3D objects, and HTTP can handle that immense flow of information. So, even though it's not the best for most Internet of Things (IoT) devices, HTTP can still be useful in some situations.

 

#7. WebSocket

 

WebSocket is one of the different protocols for IoT. It was invented around 2011. It allows devices to send messages to each other using a single connection.

However, it makes WebSocket useful in situations where devices need to exchange information continuously, like in some Internet of Things (IoT) networks. You'll often find it used secretively in things like computer programs and libraries, helping devices communicate smoothly.

 

#8. Lightweight M2M (LWM2M)

 

These sensors must be ultra-low power to preserve battery life and the environment. It is where lightweight communication protocols, such as LWM2M, come into play.

LWM2M is a remarkable way for these little devices to talk to each other and a central hub, even over long distances. In addition, it works by sending information in tiny, efficient packages, so the sensors don't waste any precious battery life. However, this makes LWM2M perfect for all (Internet of Things) IoT wireless protocols systems that use lots of small, low-power devices.

 

#9. Cellular 

 

Cellular networks are another option for connecting devices in the Internet of Things (IoT). However, this comes under the IoT protocols list. Most devices use 4G, which is fast (like ten times faster than 3G!). Nevertheless, it can use more battery and cost more money. However, this is because you typically need a SIM card, just like your phone, and those can add up if you have a lot of devices.


However, cellular networks have some advantages. They're very reliable and can send information quickly, which is why they're often used for remotely controlling savvy home devices or seeing a live feed from your security cameras when you're out. So, even though they can be more expensive, cellular networks are a good choice when you need super fast, reliable connections for your IoT devices.

 

#10. Wi-Fi

 

Wi-Fi is another way to connect devices in the Internet of Things (IoT). It's like an invisible bubble of internet around your house. Devices like laptops and phones can connect to this bubble to get online. You can also use your phone to create a Wi-Fi hotspot, sharing its internet connection with other devices.
 

Wi-Fi works by sending information through the air using radio waves, similar to a walkie-talkie. These waves come in different frequencies, like channels on a radio. As a result, it helps prevent too many devices from crowding the same channel and slowing everything down. A typical Wi-Fi connection might reach about 100 meters, but walls and other objects can shorten that distance. So, for best results, keep your devices close to your Wi-Fi router. 

 

Which are the Most Commonly Used IoT Protocols?

 

HyperText Transfer Protocols are the most commonly used IoT Protocols. In big factories with 3D printers, HTTP is a good fit. These printers need to send a lot of data to computers to create those advanced 3D objects, and HTTP can handle that immense flow of information. So, even though it's not the best for most Internet of Things (IoT) devices, HTTP can still be useful in some situations.

 

Conclusion

 

The world of IoT devices uses multiple languages to chat with each other. Some, like MQTT and CoAP, are designed to be lightweight, perfect for tiny sensors that need to save battery life. Others, like cellular networks and Wi-Fi, are more familiar and can handle bigger jobs, but they may use more power or cost more money. However, we mentioned you the top ten IoT protocols list. Picking the proper protocol depends on what your devices need to do and how much power they have.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 
Q1. What are the layers of IoT protocol?

Ans. Here, we will define several layers of IoT Protocols.
 -Top Layer or Application Layer
 -Middle Layer or Transport Layer
 -Base Layer or Network Layer
 -Data Link Layer Physical Layer


Q2. What is the classification of IoT protocols?

Ans. IoT network protocols and IoT data protocols come under the classification of IoT protocols.

Q3. What are the Examples of IoT Protocols?

Ans. This was one of the earliest Internet services developed. Moreover, it allows users to transfer files from one computer to another. With the FTP program, a user can log onto a remote computer, browse through its files, and either download or upload files.

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Upskill Campus

UpskillCampus provides career assistance facilities not only with their courses but with their applications from Salary builder to Career assistance, they also help School students with what an individual needs to opt for a better career.

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