Optimizing IoT Performance in Industrial Environments

Internet of Things (IoT) devices have become common in industrial environments, giving users better visibility, control, and capabilities. However, making the IoT product work well requires knowing how to optimize software and hardware-related aspects. 

1. Ensure the IoT Device Has Adequate Hardware

People must first consider how they will use the IoT device and then evaluate whether it has the appropriate hardware capabilities to meet relevant current and future needs. A good starting point is to examine the storage, memory, and processing performance and verify that it aligns with the proposed use cases. 

If the hardware seems sufficient but the connected product does not perform as expected, resource utilization tools can reveal which associated processes or programs create bottlenecks. Those details give IoT developers and other professionals starting points for resolving known problems.

2. Decide If the Device Needs Rugged Features 

An IoT product could have regular contact with high temperatures, moisture, shocks, or other challenges depending on what users want to monitor. Some IoT devices have rugged characteristics that can withstand those environmental challenges. One standard for rugged connected military products requires tested items to pass 29 durability checks. 

Optimizing the IoT device for the intended environment means evaluating the factors that could degrade performance if not addressed. For example, if a connected product used outdoors starts failing in extreme temperatures, people may get inaccurate measurements of what they want to monitor or find that the item does not wholly function. Understanding the product’s relevant operating conditions and choosing the hardware accordingly is essential for optimization. 

3. Understand the Power Requirements 

IoT device optimization also involves assessing power supply and consumption. Will the product have a single-use or rechargeable battery? How long can it last per charge? Considering the particular industrial use case is critical here. The power requirements for an IoT device mounted to a remote offshore oil rig differ greatly from a connected product used daily in a warehouse. 

Lithium-ion batteries have become very popular in industrial environments due to their numerous desirable characteristics. These power sources are energy-dense and durable, making them good choices. 

Working with specialty vendors can help people build custom-made batteries for their IoT devices. Additionally, modeling tools will show how long batteries will likely last under specified conditions, allowing people to optimize them for precise needs. 

4. Make Software Updates and Management Simple

People should explore IoT device optimization options that help them quickly install software updates or security patches. One popular option is to allow users to activate automatic updates so the connected product receives the newest content immediately upon release. When IT teams or others overseeing the IoT items can simplify software updates like this, they are more likely to install them on time. 

Another option is to connect all industrial IoT devices to a dedicated management platform. This strategy allows authorized parties to group products and control them at scale. Such options also support device optimization, enabling parties to quickly identify and resolve performance-related problems. Another helpful feature allows people to see each device connected to the network and its current software version at any time. Then, users can isolate products running outdated versions and update them for optimal performance.

5. Prioritize Cybersecurity to Optimize IoT Devices

Products that are well-protected from cyberattacks are highly likely to perform as their users expect. After all, carefully planned hacks can result in intruders exploiting vulnerabilities to break into individual devices or entire networks. Unaddressed software bugs can give cybercriminals easy entry points. Unfortunately, research indicates connected products are popular targets. 

Consider a 2024 report that showed a 230% increase in vulnerabilities that affected critical manufacturing applications. Another takeaway was that network anomalies and attacks comprised 38% of instances recorded in the second half of 2023. Those involved in the research said these findings suggest attackers use highly sophisticated methods to target essential infrastructure and may bypass initial protective measures and get deeper into chosen networks.

Apply an All-Encompassing Approach

Success with IoT device optimization will result in meaningful performance gains for the various industries using them. However, the above tips highlight how it is necessary to examine things from both the hardware and software side, as well as consider specific use cases and how to build or adapt the devices to suit them. 

Before starting a device optimization project, those involved should determine if they have sufficient in-house expertise or must hire external consultants for support. Access to professionals who can give advice based on their in-depth experience and specialized perspectives will be instrumental in achieving the desired outcomes.