As the number of connected devices grows exponentially, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has released a reference framework for the Internet of Things (IoT).
The new standard, called the ISO/IEC 30141, provides an internationally standardized IoT Reference Architecture, which the organization said will help ensure that connected systems are "seamless, safer and far more resilient."
Headquartered in Geneva, the ISO is an independent international organization of 162 national standards bodies which crafts world-class specifications for products, services, and systems.
Some of the well-known standards it has published include the ISO 9001 (quality), ISO 14001 (environment), ISO 50001 (energy efficiency) and ISO 26000 (social responsibility).
Over the years, however, it has developed standards for very specific niche segments, including standards for shoe sizing, the preparation of liquor for use in sensory tests, and standards to help develop new toilet technology.
An article posted on the company website by Clare Naden on October 26, 2018, cited that the IoT is already everywhere — from autonomous vehicles to precision agriculture, smart manufacturing, e-health, and smart cities.
"The applications are endless, but as the phenomenon explodes, so too does the need for trust, security and a base from which the technology can be developed further, with robust measures and systems in place," Naden wrote.
The article also quoted Dr. François Coallier, Chair of the joint technical committee of ISO and the International Technical Commission (IEC) that developed the standard, as saying that since the IoT is growing fast due to rapid developments in ICT, ISO saw "the need for a reference architecture to maximize the benefits and reduce the risks.”
The ISO/IEC 30141 was developed by the joint technical committee ISO/IEC JTC 1, Information technology, subcommittee SC 41, Internet of Things and related technologies.
The new IoT standard came at a time when forecasts for IoT growth are robust.
Management and consulting firm Bain & Company estimates the combined markets of the internet of things to grow to about $520 billion in 2021, or more than double the $235 billion spent in 2017.
Regulations have started to be introduced in other parts of the world. In the UK, the government has released a voluntary IoT Code of Practice that seeks to ensure the security of connected consumer devices at the design stage.
This announcement followed the introduction in the US state of California of an IOT cybersecurity law that would require manufacturers to install built-in security features for connected gadgets to protect users against unauthorized access.
In Australia, the government has opened a new office to prepare for era of connected vehicles.
Meanwhile, here in Asia, the Bangkok Post reported that the Thai government may introduce IoT regulations starting next year.
