What Is IoT Device Management? Definition, Key Features, and Software

IoT device management is defined as the collection of processes, tools, and technologies that help you provision, monitor, and maintain the growing sprawl of connected objects (also called the Internet of Things endpoints or edge devices) in your home or enterprise network. This article discusses IoT device management in more detail, the features you need, and the top software solutions in this segment. 

Table of Contents

• • What Is IoT Device Management?
  • Key Must-Have Features for IoT Device Management Software
  • Top 8 IoT Device Management Software Solutions for 2021

What Is IoT Device Management?

IoT device management is defined as the collection of processes, tools, and technologies that help you provision, monitor, and maintain the growing sprawl of connected objects (also called the internet of things endpoints or edge devices) in your home or enterprise network. 

As more and more devices come with network capabilities, the demand for IoT device management software is on the rise. According to the Cisco Annual Internet Report (2018–2023), there will be 29.3 billion networked devices by 2023 – that is, 3.6 devices for every person on the planet. 

Two factors make IoT device management so important: pull and push. 

1. 1. There is a clear pull factor, as intelligent IoT device management paves the way for smarter analytics, more seamless automation, internal efficiencies, and innovative business models. Business models like servitization (where equipment is leased out and services are rendered based on IoT data instead of outright equipment sales) hinge on IoT device management. 
   2. Further, there is a push factor, as consumer adoption of connected devices is constantly growing. Without IoT device management, employees are likely to keep adding new endpoints to the organizational network, creating a massive shadow IT burden. 

For these reasons, a 2020 research report by Valuates Reports indicates that the demand for IoT device management will grow at a 22.6% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) between 2021 and 2026. By the end of this forecast period, IoT device management will be a $6.25 billion market globally. 

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As mentioned, IoT device management comprises both the processes and the technologies you need to govern your IoT landscape. Some of the key processes necessary across the lifecycle of an IoT device are: 

 Key Components of IoT Device Management

• • Device onboarding: When an IoT device is switched on for the very first time, it needs to be onboarded into the network. But unlike traditional devices, they do not come with a full-fledged, independent interface to navigate the onboarding process. Checking credentials, defining authentication protocols, assigning a device identity, etc., are some of the steps you could expect in device onboarding. 
  • Device configuration: Every IoT device on your network must be configured as per your business needs. For example, in the case of a fleet of connected trucks, you might want to group specific devices together as per their usual destination or area of operation.
  • Operational diagnostics: Diagnostics can reveal a host of useful insights into your IoT operations. Most IoT devices would not have sufficient memory or computing resources to analyze diagnostics on the device itself, which is why you need a centralized IoT device management capability. 
  • Device security: This will become an increasingly important part of IoT device management. In 2020, as much as 98% of IoT device traffic in the U.S. was allowed to pass through unencrypted channels, despite comprising 30% of all endpoints. IoT device management brings unmapped endpoints into the organizational oversight and applies necessary security protocols. 
  • Device maintenance: Apart from updating device firmware to the latest version, you should also watch out for any security vulnerabilities that might creep in unnoticed via fresh releases. IoT device management uses over the air (OTA) updates for device maintenance, and like onboarding or configuration, this is also performed in bulk. 
  • End of life: IoT devices that aren’t in use but continue to be part of the enterprise network pose a massive security risk – an external entity could capture data via the device without anyone noticing. Further, an outdated or non-functional device could cause severe operational damage. End-of-life policies and processes specify exactly how an IoT device is to be retired, what are the decommissioning steps needed, and how to recycle the materials for a minimal carbon footprint. 

To orchestrate these various processes, you need centralized IoT device management software. 

Also Read: What Is Network Access Control? Definition, Key Components and Best Practices

Key Must-Have Features for IoT Device Management Software

To complement your processes and enhance them, the following key features are necessary for IoT device management software: 

Key Must-Have Features of an IoT Device Management Software

• • Bulk device onboarding: The software must enable onboarding using a network key and identification credentials. Device onboarding must be performed remotely to establish a secure connection between the endpoint device and the IoT service. 
  • Remote troubleshooting: There should be support for remote troubleshooting to quickly resolve user issues and reduce manual efforts. An integrated governance portal can help resolve issues across multiple endpoints in a consolidated manner. 
  • Reports and analytics: IoT devices typically ship with some edge analytics capabilities. The IoT device management software will be able to display detailed analytics insights in real-time via GUI dashboards. This data can also be converted into reports for business user understanding. 
  • Robust integrations: Compatibility with your hardware ecosystem and application codebase (i.e., the language in which they are written) is an essential feature for this software. It must connect with downstream data servers and enterprise apps for integrated workflows. 
  • Stringent security: The software should equip you with detailed device logs to detect instances of anomalous use and unauthorized access. Real-time notifications sent via the software’s dashboard can help diagnose issues and conduct root-cause analysis quickly.

While these are the must-have features to look for, you should also prioritize value-added services that augment the potential of your IoT devices. For example, the solution might come with application development capabilities that let you build your very own IoT apps (complete with cloud-hosting) and further grow your business. Or, you could integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to make IoT device management more contextual – i.e., analyzing diagnostics data against other infrastructure KPIs to understand the best operational configuration. 

Recognizing these possibilities, the world’s leading IoT device management software providers offer unique differentiators that make these solutions suited to specific business requirements. Let us assess some of these solutions. 

Also Read: What Is a Data Catalog? Definition, Examples, and Best Practices

Top 8 IoT Device Management Software Solutions for 2021  

A powerful IoT device management software can not only keep your IoT sprawl in check and maximize device functionality, but it can also make it easier to scale IoT. The top IoT device management software solutions are designed to support easy scalability, meeting the needs of various enterprise environments. Here are our recommendations for 2021, arranged in alphabetical order. 

Disclaimer: These listings are based on publicly available information and include vendor websites that sell to mid-to-large enterprises. Readers are advised to conduct their own final research to ensure the best fit for their unique organizational needs.

1. AWS IoT Device Management

Overview: This is a software solution from Amazon Web Services (AWS) that helps you onboard, organize, monitor, and manage your connected devices remotely and at scale. It includes a collection of AWS IoT services spanning device software, control services, and analytics services. 

Key features: The key features of AWS IoT Device Management include: 

• • Bulk device registration using templates that include manufacturer information, identity certificates, security policies, and other device details
  • Device grouping based on function, security requirements, or other parameters, including options for automatic grouping
  • Indexing and search based on device attribute, state, and connectivity data 
  • Device login and log configuration for rapid issue identification 
  • Scheduled OTA updates and automation capabilities 
  • Secure tunneling for diagnostics and troubleshooting behind firewalls 

USP: AWS IoT Device Management is device and OS agnostic, suitable for any type of enterprise environment (industrial and non-industrial). The company’s impressive suite of service capabilities lets you deploy a full-featured IoT landscape without any third-party dependence. 

Editorial comments: Companies already subscribing to AWS can confidently opt for AWS IoT Device Management, integrating other services like SSO or AWS Organizations to build a connected enterprise. 

2. Azure IoT Hub

Overview: Azure IoT Hub is the IoT device management software from Microsoft, hosted on the Azure cloud. It includes features for device security, provisioning, and management at scale and offers additional services for building IoT applications. 

Key features: The key features of Azure IoT Hub include: 

• • Codeless bidirectional communication between the cloud and IoT devices
  • Azure Defender for IoT to maintain your security posture, monitor for threats and remediate
  • Services for serverless computing to simplify IoT application development
  • Per-device authentication to prevent shadow IT risks
  • Selective revoking of access rights for specific devices to maintain permission control
  • The ability to create and deploy IoT Edge modules, including AI and other advanced analytics

USP: The biggest USP of Azure IoT Hub is that it is available on Azure Stack Hub, allowing your customers and partners to build applications for your connected landscape that could be run on-premise. This makes your application environment truly flexible.

Editorial comments: Companies with an existing application presence on Azure, looking to scale up, should consider Azure IoT Hub as an excellent option. Its serverless computing capabilities, integration with Azure Event Grid, and availability on Azure Stack Hub make it ideal for those with an ambitious application development roadmap. 

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3. balenaCloud

Overview: balena is a set of tools that help you deploy and manage connected Linux devices. It has several products in its suite, including balenaCloud, a container-based platform for deploying IoT apps. You can create your own device image, connect endpoints to the network, and maintain security through container technology. 

Key features: The key features of balenaCloud include: 

• • Compatibility with a wide range of languages, including Node.js, Python, Golang, etc. 
  • Docker container technology for secure update provisioning
  • Visibility into real-time device status with detailed activity logs
  • Remote configuration of devices in bulk or individually
  • Built on open-source building blocks for greater extensibility
  • Local (on-premise development) for quick feedback and iteration

USP: balenaCloud supports a whopping 59 types of devices, including all popular boards such as Nvidia Jetson TX2, Raspberry Pi, and Intel NUC. The company also aims to work with enterprises operating in a different IoT environment and provide full support. 

Editorial comments: balenaCloud is the ideal IoT device management solution for those looking for ultimate flexibility. You can take your pick of device types, languages, containerized/non-container deployments, and cloud or local applications, customizing further through open-source if needed. 

4. Bosch IoT Suite

Overview: Engineering and technology company, Bosch, has a powerful IoT solution meant for industrial use. It includes three components – Edge for local connectivity, Hub for direct device connectivity, and Asset Communication, with capabilities for remote asset control. 

Key features: The key features of Bosch IoT Suite include: 

• • Preconfigured and integrated solution to manage the entire IoT device lifecycle
  • A remote manager for on-premise device deployment
  • Compatible with a variety of management protocols like MQTT, TR-069, OMA-DM, OMA LwM2M, and REST/HTTP
  • Integration with existing systems via application programming interfaces (APIs)
  • Unlimited historical data storage and analysis
  • Dedicated servers for edge data analysis

USP: As a recognized engineering leader, Bosch supports highly specific use cases like digital twins to maintain an inventory of IoT assets and advanced analytics for smarter device monitoring. It also supports application development use cases in an industrial environment. 

Editorial comments: Bosch IoT Suite is an excellent option for small-to-mid-sized industrial companies looking to get a comprehensive suite of IoT services without much technical involvement or effort. Bosch IoT solutions are fully managed, and the company offers additional premium support plans. 

Also Read: Top 10 Cloud Data Protection Companies in 2021

5. Google Cloud IoT Core

Overview: Cloud IoT Core is the IoT device management software from cloud technology leader Google. It helps you connect, manage, and ingest data from distributed endpoints. It is a fully managed service, with little to no technical effort required on-site. 

Key features: The key features of Google Cloud IoT Core include: 

• • Secure connections using asymmetric key authentication over TLS 1.2
  • Integrates with analytics services like Google Data Studio or BigQuery for deeper insights
  • The ability to define identity and access management roles
  • Bulk deployments using REST APIs
  • The option to provide offline operation capabilities where there are resource constraints
  • Stackdriver Monitoring for real-time metrics and alerts

USP: The most significant USP of Cloud IoT Core is the option to build and train ML models for your IoT landscape on the cloud if you have access to the requisite technical expertise. Google works with third-party AI platforms, not to mention TensorFlow for advanced ML capabilities. 

Editorial comments: Google Cloud IoT Core could be a useful business enabler for smart enterprises, thanks to its AI/ML features. It works out of the box with all leading device manufacturers, you can integrate with your existing infrastructure, and Google’s serverless technology enables real-time scalability. 

6. Hologram

Overview: Hologram is an IoT device management solution for companies with a large, globally distributed IoT presence, where it is difficult to establish and manage network connections seamlessly. Hologram makes it easier to navigate between multiple local carriers. Its cellular platform provides SIMs that automatically switch networks to provide IoT devices with coverage across 550+ carriers in 200+ countries. 

Key features: The key features of Hologram include: 

• • A hardware-agnostic SIM card that works with every network in every country
  • Automatic carrier switching for zero interruption IoT device connectivity
  • Collaborative dashboards to manage your device footprint
  • Detailed diagnostics insights on data use, device movements, and usage
  • Diagnostics data for root cause investigation in the case of anomalous events
  • A single stock-keeping unit (SKU) to track over-the-air updates

USP: Hologram’s universal, global SIM card is a standout feature in today’s connected environment. Given that most IoT devices are rendered useless if their network access is interrupted, using Hologram as part of your IoT device management function can dramatically boost the value you extract from IoT devices. 

Editorial comments: Companies with a large, mobile fleet of IoT endpoints (smart vehicles, sensors embedded on shipments, equipment servitization, etc.) can leverage Hologram to grow their business in various geographies. The dashboard is easy to use for non-technical stakeholders, and Hologram is also device-agnostic. 

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7. IBM Watson IoT Platform

Overview: IBM Watson IoT Platform applies the company’s cognitive APIs, visual dashboards, security policies, and developer resources to IoT device management use cases. Watson’s cognitive capabilities mean that you can extract and understand unstructured data, including videos, images, and handwritten text. 

Key features: The key features of the IBM Watson IoT Platform include: 

• • Bulk device onboarding and removal from a remote location
  • Device connectivity via the industry-standard MQTT protocol and TLS-secured communications
  • Data lifecycle controls, including scheduled data retiring and archival
  • Secure APIs to connect your apps to IoT device data
  • Fully managed, cloud-hosted services
  • Risk and security management, including anomaly detection, usage pattern analysis, etc. 

USP: IBM’s IoT device management software is powered by Watson’s globally recognized cognitive capabilities, ensuring you can make the most out of the unstructured data generated in your IoT landscape. It also has a helpful service called Quickstart that lets you immediately onboard a single device and trial the software without signing up. 

Editorial comments: IBM is among the world’s leading players in cognitive technology. Its Watson services, coupled with a powerful web dashboard, could radically simplify your IoT device management processes. 

8. Oracle Internet of Things Asset Monitoring Cloud Service

Overview: Oracle Internet of Things Asset Monitoring Cloud Service is part of its IoT Intelligent Applications Cloud, which helps you monitor machines, extract diagnostics data, and make industrial workplaces safer. The software is primarily meant for device maintenance and diagnostics, although Oracle has services for other IoT requirements. 

Key features: The key features of Oracle Opens a new window Internet of Things Asset Monitoring Cloud Service include: 

• • Real-time location of fixed and mobile assets, including vital KPIs
  • Pre-built dashboards and KPIs to detect asset health, utilization, and availability
  • Prevention of unauthorized asset movements by tracking geofencing violations
  • Alerts in case assets are being underutilized, leading to revenue leakage
  • Predictive analytics to anticipate asset damage and repair
  • Configurable business rules to benchmark IoT asset performance

USP: Oracle Internet of Things Asset Monitoring Cloud Service is a targeted point solution for industrial companies looking to make the most of their asset investments. Unlike most IoT device management software, it gives you clear insights on asset health and physical wear and tear. 

Editorial comments: Companies with moveable IoT assets must invest in asset monitoring software as part of their IoT device management function to achieve the expected ROI from their IoT investments. Oracle’s solution is a compelling alternative for this use case. 

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A note on pricing: The cost of maintaining your IoT device landscape can vary significantly based on the number of devices, your technical needs, data consumption, and the carrier you are using. Keep these variables in mind when choosing an IoT device management software and ensure that the solution addresses your specific business needs. 

Wrapping up

IoT connections will comprise half of the world’s total network connections by 2023. The implications for businesses are immense. Not only will they have to bring all of these devices within their network perimeter, but they must also plan for security policies, diagnostics, timely updates, user authentication, etc. Imagine an instance where your employee uses their smart car to extract location information from their corporate email. Without proper IoT device management, such use cases would be fraught with risk. 

There are also incredible opportunities to be unlocked if IoT device management is done correctly. Your device landscape will continuously generate data that can help realign products and services for better adoption. For example, data generated by an employee’s Fitbit could inform health benefits packages. Sensor data collected from a retail outlet could tell you which aisles have the greatest footfall, and therefore the direction in which you should invest your marketing efforts. 

Do you agree that IoT device management will be a critical IT capability very soon? Share your thoughts with us on LinkedInOpens a new window , TwitterOpens a new window , or FacebookOpens a new window . We are eager to hear from you!

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