Creating a Framework for the Next Generations of IoT Networks
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At the time of writing, more than 25 billion connected objects exist on our planet, and this is only the beginning: experts predict that the Internet of Things (IoT) market will continue its growth and increase 8% by 2022.
These connected objects are very diverse in nature: they include medical devices, transportation, public services and sports gadgets, to name just a few. Many of these objects will be at the heart of tomorrow’s smart cities.
At this time, it is impossible to find a single solution that optimally ensures access to connected objects as well as their security and integrity. In fact, each of these devices has been designed to meet specific parameters that do not necessarily correspond to the other objects and networks to which they must connect. The result is incomplete solutions that worry specialists, particularly in terms of connectivity and security.
What’s more, each connected object requires specific resources. Some objects must be affordable and energy-efficient, while others must be extremely reliable, or even infallible, in addition to requiring very-low-latency communications.
With respect to security, it goes without saying that these networks need better protection. Human error, malicious intent and trade wars between certain states represent very real threats. These may not only jeopardize the security of personal data, but also interrupt public services and, in some cases, endanger the lives of citizens.
Promising Solutions Ensuring Connectivity and Security
Researchers from the Canada Research Chair on Next-Generation Internet of Things (IoT) Networks aim to establish guidelines that guarantee the connectivity, resource management and security of future generations of IoT networks.
To accomplish this goal, they intend to:
- Design intelligent solutions for resource allocation to respond to the technical challenges of next-generation networks that will have to integrate billions of connected objects;
- Develop new access strategies that will be sufficiently powerful to support massive connections;
- Develop solutions to prevent network security breaches.
Improved Performance and Security
The Chair research work will generate significant benefits for IoT Networks.
Better protection of IoT networks.
According to Forrester, 69% of North American businesses have more devices connected to their servers than computers. The Chair research work will contribute to securing wireless networks and
Georges Kaddoum, professor at ÉTS and Chairholder of the Canada Research Chair on Next-Generation Internet of Things (IoT) Networks
better managing these networks’ resources to optimize energy consumption while reducing latency and responding to the needs of a wide variety of services and applications.
A potential reduction in the costs of cybercrime.
The Government of Canada believes that cybercrime will cost Canadians $6 billion per year by 2021. Better protection of networks connecting the Internet of Things will help reduce these costs.
Training of highly qualified personnel.
The market for connected devices is booming, and it will require a skilled workforce with extensive knowledge in the areas of network security, network resource management and massive connectivity as applied to next-generation networks incorporating IoT. The Chair will contribute to the training of expert personnel by hiring three doctoral and two master’s students to participate in its work.
