Internet of Things Workshop Series: Session 5
Date: 25/10/2024
Facilitator: Angaza Elimu
Introduction:
The training focused on the critical aspects of IoT, including communication protocols, security challenges, and practical applications, as well as future trends in IoT technology. Led by Angaza Elimu, the session highlighted the importance of selecting the right protocols for specific use cases, understanding IoT’s security landscape, and explored real-world examples of IoT implementations.
Key Areas Covered:
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IoT Protocols and Communication
The session introduced various network and data protocols essential for IoT communications. Protocols like WiFi, Bluetooth, MQTT, HTTP, and LoRa were discussed for their roles in data transfer, security, and device interoperability. The OSI model's layers were also examined, focusing on how each supports IoT communication and security needs. -
IoT Security
IoT security challenges were extensively discussed, covering vulnerabilities like remote exposure, weak default passwords, and lack of encryption. The threats posed by botnet attacks, man-in-the-middle attacks, and insecure firmware were also highlighted, along with strategies to improve IoT security through measures like zero-trust architectures, segmentation, and multi-factor authentication. -
Future of IoT in Smart Cities
Emerging technologies such as 5G, edge computing, and AI were explored for their potential to support IoT in smart cities, facilitating real-time communication, faster data processing, and predictive analysis. These advancements promise to improve IoT scalability and adaptability across sectors.
Practical Applications:
- ESP32 and MQTT Sensor Data Transmission:
A practical exercise done in groups demonstrated how to use an ESP32 device with MQTT to collect and transmit sensor data, a common use case in home automation and environmental monitoring applications. The demonstration illustrated the efficiency of MQTT in handling low-bandwidth, low-power applications.
Challenges:
- Resource Constraints: Students had to share the limited microcontrollers and sensors.
- Network issues: Poor WiFi network from the school made the process a bit slow.
- Time: Limited time made the organizers try to hurry to finish the program.
Conclusion:
The training session underscored the importance of choosing suitable protocols and security frameworks for IoT implementations. It emphasized a proactive approach to securing IoT devices and networks, especially as IoT expands into critical areas like smart cities. This knowledge equips participants to better address the demands of IoT applications and tackle its inherent security risks. Find attached the link the photos of the event below:
UoN IoT Series Session 5
Date and Time
Location
Hosts
Registration
- Date: 25 Oct 2024
- Time: 12:00 PM UTC to 02:00 PM UTC
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- Nairobi, Nairobi
- Kenya
- Building: American Wing
- Room Number: 403
- Starts 21 October 2024 09:00 PM UTC
- Ends 24 October 2024 08:00 PM UTC
- 0 in-person spaces left!
- No Admission Charge