Wireless Personal Communications (2020) 114:1687–1762

https://doi.org/10.1007/s11277-020-07446-4

Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges:

A Comprehensive Review

Abhishek Khanna1   · Sanmeet Kaur1

Published online: 28 May 2020

© Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature 2020

Abstract
During recent years, one of the most familiar names scaling new heights and creating a
benchmark in the world is the Internet of Things (IoT). It is indeed the future of com-
munication that has transformed things (objects) of the real-world into smart objects. The
functional aspect of IoT is to unite every object of the world under one common infrastruc-
ture; in such a manner that humans not only have the ability to control those objects; but
to provide regular and timely updates on the current status. IoT concepts were proposed a
couple of years ago and it may not be incorrect to quote that this term has become a bench-
mark for establishing communication among objects. In context to the present standings of
IoT, a comprehensive review of literature has been undertaken on various aspects of IoT,
i.e., technologies, applications, challenges, etc. This paper evaluates various contributions
of researchers in different areas of applications. These papers were investigated on various
parameters identified in each application domain. Furthermore, existing challenges in these
areas are highlighted. Future research directions in the field of IoT have also been high-
lighted in the study to equip novel researchers in this area to assess the current standings of
IoT and to improve upon them with innovative ideas.

Keywords  Internet of Things (IoT) · Wireless sensor networks (WSN) · Radio-frequency

identification (RFID) · Near-field communication (NFC) · Internet of Energy (IoE) ·
Global Positioning System (GPS) · Representational State Transfer (REST) · Information
and Communication Technology (ICT) · Service Oriented Architecture (SOA)

1 Introduction

During the past few years, the vision of the term Internet has been constantly expanding
its wings in every aspect of life. It has become a challenging task for researches to iden-
tify the optimal potential of Internet usage. With time, the term of the Internet has been

* Abhishek Khanna
[email protected]
Sanmeet Kaur
[email protected]
1
Computer Science and Engineering Department, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology,
Patiala 147004, India

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 1688 A. Khanna, S. Kaur

associated with things and is not being identified as IoT. As the name depicts, things are
associated through the Internet via Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN), Radio-frequency
identification (RFID), Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN), Bluetooth, Near-field commu-
nication (NFC), Long Term Evolution (LTE), and various other smart communication
technologies. Hence, IoT can be defined as “things that are associated over the Internet.”
This association helps in the transfer of information gathered from various devices to
destined places over the Internet. Since IoT is the most reliable term of the technological
world in today’s date, it still lacks the potential compliance that it is capable of. In such
a complex scenario, this article aims to assist all those who want an easy and through-
out the approach to understand the concept and further wishes to contribute towards its
channelization to serve in the best optimal manner. This article depicts research articles
related to the field of IoT, with the maximum number of citations, to extract the most
valuable content and distinct researches over the years. The most relevant among them
have been addressed and discussed by a length in this research article.
This article has been prorated in a total of five sections. Section  1 of the article is
the introductory section which sheds light on the basics of IoT. Section  2 highlights
the concept of IoT, its evolution, objectives and various communication technologies
used for IoT. Various applications of IoT have been discussed by length in Sect. 3 based
on extraction of research articles with highest number of citations over the years. All
possible open issues, challenges and future research directions have been discussed in
Sect. 4. Section 5 is the concluding portion of the research article, depicting the crux of
the research article. Figure 1 depicts a pictorial representation of organizational struc-
ture for the research article.

Fig. 1  Organizational structure for the research article

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Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A… 1689

1.1 Motivation for Article

It is a fact that technology is never static. Constant advancements and ever enhancing
expectations from existing terminology keep on motivating scientists and researchers to
attain newer benchmarks. Moreover, during the last recent years, there have been ample
of increase in several associated terminologies, i.e., cloud computing, big data, etc. to IoT.
Therefore, keeping existing scenario of constant advancements in the field of IoT in mind,
there was a dire need of revisiting the current standings and capabilities of the new age
IoT concepts. There was a dire need of a study that highlighted modern-day requirements,
its remedial alternatives, and lived precisely to the expectations based upon modern-day
IoT concepts. Hence, it was therefore visioned to have a conceptual based methodical lit-
erature survey after considering changes that have come up within various applications of
life while adopting the concept of IoT. The authors recognized the necessity of conducting
a methodological literature survey after considering progressive research done in various
applications by utilizing the concepts of IoT. Therefore, a summarized form of the most
prized research in various applications on an existing database and to present the research
standings has been carried out to identify key challenges, issues faced by various applica-
tions, and their immediate remedial solutions proposed by incorporating the concept of IoT
over the years, has been presented in the study (Table 1).

1.2 Our Contributions to the Research Article

The research article has been framed in such a manner that:

• The study brings forward the concept of IoT from its origin, along with various up-
gradations from time to time.
• Various communication techniques used in IoT have been discussed by length.
• The study has been framed in a manner, that highlights the basics of the concept term
and gradually covers the functional aspects of the domain and also highlights the limi-
tations and challenges faced by various applications.

Table 1  Notations used in Symbol Description List of various tables where

various tables for existing study symbol notations have been
used

L, ↓ Low 2, 26
M, ⟷ Medium 2, 26
H, ↑ High 2, 26
SB Simulation based 2, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26
RT Real Time 2, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26
LZ Limited zone 2, 26
MZ Moderate zone 2, 26
HZ High zone 2, 26
PD Pre-defined software 2, 26
D Derived software 2, 26
N/A Not-applicable 2, 26
A Applicable 2, 26

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 1690 A. Khanna, S. Kaur

Table 2  Keywords/symbols used Sr. no. Parameters Score

in research article
0 1

1 Observations SB RT
2 Impact of proposed methodology ↓ , ⟷ ↑
3 Costs involved to develop a framework H L, M
4 Area for experimentation LZ, MZ HZ
5 Software derived – D
6 Pre-existing software PE –
7 Possibility for implementation of proposed N/A A
methodology on related platform
8 Future expansion of proposed methodology N/A A

Table 3  Parameters used in Sr. no Parameter Parameter description

research article name

1 P1 Impact of proposed methodology

2 P2 Costs involved to develop the framework
3 P3 Area of experimentation
4 P4 Pre-existing/derived software
5 P5 Observations
6 P6 Possibility for implementation of proposed
methodology on related platform
7 P7 Future expansion of proposed methodology

• Comprehensive observations have been made to study various applications of IoT con-
cerning the upward market keeping modern-day requirements in focus.
• Future research directions in the area of IoT have been presented based on forthcoming
challenges.
• An evaluation has been done to all research articles discussed under various applica-
tions of IoT, based on various parameters, depicted in Table 3.
– Score evaluation for parameters
  All parameters were evaluated to a corresponding score with static values 0, 1 as
depicted in Table 2. Assigning of a score was based on the keyword/symbol corre-
sponding to each parameter depicted in Table 26 (Table 3).

1.3 Related Surveys

Related surveys by Atzori et al. (2010), Agrawal et al. (2013), Gubbi et al. (2013), Said et al.
(2013), Perera et al. (2014), Madakam et al. (2015), Fuqaha et al. (2015) and Whitmore et al.
(2015) have been very innovative. Atzori et al. [1] has addressed the enabling technologies
along with applications and open issues faced in the field of applications. Agrawal et al. [2]
presented a paper in a wider context of IoT, mainly enabling the factors for integration in

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Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A… 1691

various technologies. Furthermore, key technologies involved in the implementation of IoT

and its major application domain have been discussed. Gubbi et al. [3] highlighted the exten-
sion of presented the vision of IoT by enhancing the requirement for convergence of WSN,
distributed computing, and Internet directed at the technological research community. Said
et al. [4] highlighted architectures, new-age applications, and challenges faced by IoT. Perera
et al. [5] discussed the significant growth of sensor deployments over the past decade in the
field of IoT. Madakam et al. [6] highlighted the basic requirements, characteristics and aliases
of IoT. The study also highlighted the usages of IoT in our daily life. Fuqaha et al. [7] empha-
sized on protocols, enabling technologies, and numerous application issues in the field of IoT.
The study also depicts the architecture of IoT along with various elements and communication
techniques. Lastly, the study also highlights the challenges faced in the field of IoT. Whitmore
et al. [8] highlighted the identifying techniques, sensing technologies, networking and process-
ing capabilities of IoT. The research activities and advancements have persistently enhanced
in the field of IoT over the years. Identifying the dire necessity for a methodical literature a
survey that evaluates based on parameters, updated with modern trends and integrated with
existing research, has been presented in the study. This survey article highlights the key find-
ings from previous surveys and presents a fresh methodical literature review that evaluates and
discovers the possible potentials based on available research in the field of IoT. Table 5 depicts
a comparative analysis of existing surveys and the current study.

1.4 Research Methodology and Classification Method

The objective of this survey article is to correctly identify the current standings of IoT.
Research has been done thoroughly by examining the existing literature work done in this con-
text. To give a firm foundation to this review article, the study depicts the origin of IoT, along
with its current standings, its trends, and technologies. Furthermore, the objective was to iden-
tify how the concept came into existence and what are its current standings. The last objective
of conducting extensive research was to correctly identify the future directions for IoT. This
comprehensive reference acts as a benchmark that assists in understanding the basics of the
domain. To attain the objective, a thorough comprehensive review of the literature has been
done. The framework for the existing study is based on thorough visit to various journals, con-
ference papers, articles, and edited volumes that have made a significant contribution. Vital lit-
erature was identified and information was extracted by querying scholarly databases. 194 pa
pers out of a total database of 925 papers have been thoroughly read. Each paper was dis-
cussed, analyzed and classified a specific domain category. The literature was distributed
among the two readers based on interest towards domain and content among categories and
subcategories. Figure  2 depicts the selection procedure of the extraction of research papers
based on abstracts and keywords. Whereas Table 4 depicts the defined strategy of extracting a
content-based database from various e-resources. A sincere effort has been made to extract the
most relevant literature as possible for this research article (Table 5).

2 Internet of Things (IoT): An Overview

During mid 80’s, communication was either limited to voice over telephone lines or letters.
With time, the term Internet came into existence and communication got a new platform.
The possibility of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) was achieved over the years. Today’s
era has left the concept of the Internet far behind and has come up with a new term, “IoT”.

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 1692 A. Khanna, S. Kaur

Fig. 2  Study selection procedure

IoT is a technique that combines existing resources over the Internet, that enables them to
obtain control over these devices The introductory concept of IoT was proposed at Mas-
sachute Institute of Technology (MIT) Auto-ID Labs in the early 1990s [13]. Trojan Room
coffee pot was the first IoT application that was developed and the term of IoT was coined
[6, 14]. Over the years, numerous advancements have been made within the domain [15,
16]. There have been several definitions derived by various organizations working on this
domain. Each organization has termed the definition of IoT in context to its functional
capabilities. ITU-T has termed IoT as, “Global infrastructure for Information Society, ena-
bling advanced services by interconnecting (physical and virtual) things based on existing
and evolving, interpolative information and communication technologies” [17]. Although
IoT is all about synchronization of things (objects) over the Internet. A slight guidance
from humans makes this concept a possibility. Figure 3 depicts the Tri-sectional relation-
ship between the three aspects of IoT.
There have been many phases in transition for the term of Internet to IoT. The first phase
was the Pre-Internet phase, where communication was possible over a fixed telephone line
and via Short Message Service (SMS). Later the communication medium was upgraded
with mobile telephony devices. The second phase was of Internet of Content phase. This
phase was capable of sending large sized messages, i.e., e-mail that was capable of asso-
ciating attachments. Information, Entertainment, etc. were the basic possibilities of this
phase. The third phase was of Internet of services, that focused on electronic applications
like E-productivity, E-commerce, etc. The fourth phase, i.e., Internet of people was the
phase were people got associated with each other through social media and numerous other
mediums like Facebook, Orkut, Skype, Youtube, etc. The functional aspect of IoT endures
the capability of connecting numerous devices over the Internet. By virtue of this aspect the
devices can communicate with each other and perform several directed activities according
to the design and functional capabilities of those objects. However, the existing era might
not be considered to be the end of the road for this concept. Researchers are trying to incor-
porate the concepts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) upon these interconnected devices so that
they can take necessary decisions and act upon with 0% human intervention. It may not

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 Table 4  Summary of data of papers selected on the basis of search string
Sr. no Domain E-resource Search domain No. of papers

1 www.acm.org Conference, Journals, Proceedings, Transactions, Data- IoT, Internet of Things, IoT Applications, Communication 82
2 www.ieeex​plore​.ieee.org bases, Magazines, White papers, Reports, etc. Techniques in IoT, Issues in IoT and Challenges 272
3 www.scien​cedir​ect.com 108
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…

4 www.schol​argoo​gle.com 125
5 www.onlin​elibr​ary.wiley​.com 75
6 www.sprin​gerli​nk.com 82
7 www.webof​knowl​edge.com 127
8 www.elsev​ier.com 54
Total number of research papers under review 925
1693

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 Table 5  Comparative analysis of existing surveys and current study
1694

Citation Year of Literature Title Topics focused by authors within the research Significant difference of the current research
refer- publica- article article

13
ence tion

[1] 2010 The Internet of Things: A survey Various enabling technologies of IoT Discussion on various communication technolo-
gies and their commercial benefits based on
various parameters
Applications of IoT Applications of IoT have been discussed based on
maximum number of citations over the years
Open issues related to IoT Other vital references related to all applications
within IoT domain have been cited, considering
their valuable inputs within the field of research
Issues highlighted in the study are not domain
specific
[2] 2013 Context aware computing for the Internet of Various communication technologies Communication technologies along with their
Things: A survey comparative analysis
Applications of IoT Identification of communication technologies
used in various applications
Issues related to communication and privacy Applications of IoT along with their proposed
techniques along with identification of further
scope of improvement enabling new research-
ers to clearly identify their area of interest and
future course of action
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
 Table 5  (continued)
Citation Year of Literature Title Topics focused by authors within the research Significant difference of the current research
refer- publica- article article
ence tion

[3] 2013 Internet of Things (IoT): A literature review Various elements used in making IoT communi- Communication devices making IoT a possibility
cation possible and their evaluation on various parameters
Applications of IoT Applications of IoT have been discussed high-
lighting the research being observed on the
basis of simulation or real time, precise location
of experimentation, and industrial adaptation
Synchronization of Cloud server with IoT Aspects of incorporating of the study with similar
platform have been depicted in the study
Challenges and future research directions Challenges faced within each application domain,
along with their remedial actions, and future
scope of improvement
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…

[4] 2013 Internet of things: A survey on enabling tech- History of IoT has been presented Evolution of IoT has been presented, year-wise
nologies, protocols, and applications Various applications of IoT Applications of IoT
Challenges faced while working on various IoT Approach used to over come the challenges and
applications future scope of improvement keeping modern
day’s vision and expectations
[5] 2014 The Internet of Things A survey of topics and Application domains of IoT Proposed study highlights:
trends Components of IoT Applications of IoT
Possible usage of sensors and actuators within Components of IoT
IoT
Identification of usage of sensors and actuators
[6] 2015 RFID technology and its applications in Internet Architectures that supports IoT Time series that helped IoT attain newer and
of Things (IoT) newer benchmarks
Communication technologies of IoT Communication technologies
1695

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 Table 5  (continued)
1696

Citation Year of Literature Title Topics focused by authors within the research Significant difference of the current research
refer- publica- article article

13
ence tion

[7] 2015 Building the Internet of Things using RFID: the IoT architecture and protocols Identification of precise objectives for IoT, based
RFID ecosystem experience on an architecture that can either be derived or
developed
Elements used in IoT Identification and usage of elements in IoT
Communication standards of IoT IoT challenges and approach used to resolve the
issues
IoT challenges
[8] 2015 Architecture of Internet of Things and its key Applications of IoT Various applications of IoT on the basis of numer-
technology integration based-on RFID ous parameters
Challenges in IoT Challenges in IoT
[9] 2017 Challenges and Opportunities of Waste Manage- IoT approach for waste management IoT based approach and implementations covering
ment in IoT-enabled Smart Cities: A Survey every possible application under smart smart
city domain
[10] 2017 IoT middleware: A survey on issues and ena- Middle-wares of IoT In-depth review of IoT in modern era
bling technologies Key challenges and issues while handling
middle-wares
[11] 2017 Advanced lightweight encryption algorithms for Incorporating of various Symmetric and Asym- Various aspects and challenges faced while per-
IoT devices: survey, challenges and solutions metric Cyphers for secure communication forming communication among devices
[12] 2017 A Survey on Network Methodologies for Real- Requirements for Real-Time IoT analytics Issues faced while handling Real-time data
Time Analytics of Massive IoT Data and Open Methodologies handling Real-time IoT analytics The study identifies RT/SB approach approach
Research Issues adopted within various applications discussed
in the article
Challenges faced while handling Realtime data Challenges have been discussed and study is not
just limited to Real-time analytics of IoT
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A… 1697

Fig. 3  Tri-sectional relationship among the three aspects of IoT

be incorrect to term the upcoming phase as the IoT will be powered by Internet of Things
based Artificial Intelligence (IoTAI). The transformation phase(s) of IoT has been depicted
in Fig. 4.

2.1 Evolution of Internet to IoT

The Internet has undoubtedly become a benchmark in terms of communication. During

the last few years, there has been a steep inclination towards the adaptation of new-age
communication technologies. To date, the world is deployed with around 5 billion smart
devices. It has been predicted that over 50 billion devices will be connected over the Inter-
net by the year 2020 [18]. It has been estimated that the incremental value of IoT would
surpass $300 billion by the end of this decade. This boosts vision for the development
of newer communication technologies and finding out new modes of getting synchroniza-
tion of newer devices over the Internet. However, it may be incorrect to directly evaluate
the functional capabilities of IoT, before understanding time to time changes and advance-
ments in the field of IoT. Figure 5 depicts IoT’s evolution and its achievements during the
recent years. Whereas, Table 6 depicts references for Fig. 5.

Fig. 4  Transformation of Internet from Pre-Internet to IoT

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 1698 A. Khanna, S. Kaur

Since research on IoT is an area of interest for both academia and the industrial sec-
tor, the outcomes depict the urge for constantly finding new methodologies for associating
various devices over the Internet. This concept is now being looked upon as a road map for
development in many of the areas of concern towards society, e.g., Smart Mobility, Smart
Grid, Smart Homes and Buildings, Public Safety and Environment Monitoring, Medical
and Health care, Industrial Processing, Agriculture and Breeding, Independent Living, etc.
Figure 6 depicts the constant increase of devices being associated over the Internet during
the last few years.
Garter’s Information Technology Hype Cycle for the year 2019 has also revealed that
IoT platform tops the chart with respect to peak inflated expectations; that had initiated
through an innovation trigger and has reached the maximum level of expectation, where
the dependency rate and increased expectations persuade researches for newer develop-
ments. Figure 7 depicts the Emerging technologies for Gartner’s Hype Cycle report for the
year 2019.

2.2 Objectives of IoT

Since IoT is all about universal integration of the IoT through an IP based Service Ori-
ented Architecture (SOA) enabling heterogeneous components and their interoperability.
IoT aims to attain the following objectives:

Fig. 5  Evolution in IoT

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Fig. 6  Projection in number of devices being associated over the Internet (2015–2025) [19]

Fig. 7  Gartner’s Hype Cycle-2019 [20]

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Table 6  References for IoT’s evolution for various years as depicted in Fig. 5
Year of evolution Terminology derived References

1990 Concept of IoT proposed [13]

1999 IoT term coined [6]
1999 First IoT application—Trojan Coffee Pot, 1999 [14]
2000 First Internet of Refrigeration by LG [6]
2003 First time deployment of RFID commercially [21]
2005 International Telecommunications Union (ITU)’s first report on IoT [22]
2005 Group of companies launched IPSO Alliance to promote the use of IP within networks of “Smart Objects” to enable the [23]
IoT
2008 IoT gained recognition by the European Union (EU) [24]
2010 Chinese premier Wen Jiabao stated IoT as the key industry for China [25]
2011 IoT-Global Standards Initiative (IoT-GSI) was created [26]
2012 Cisco, IBM and Ericsson started developing large scale educational and marketing initiatives on IoT [27]
2013 Arduino, Raspberry Pi and other hardware platforms matured and started making IoT accessible and further incorporated [28–32]
the term in every aspect
2014 Usage of 3rd party devices i.e. Drones, RFID, etc., were incorporated with IoT extensively [33]
2016 IoT products were available in the market potreying marketing gimmix [34]
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A… 1701

i. The research potentials are further aimed to extend the capabilities from IPv4 to IPv6
and other related standards that are competent enough to support the future of IoT and
to overcome its existing fragmentation issues.
ii. To develop a highly scalable IPv6-based SOA that is capable to achieve on issues like
mobility, interoperability, cloud computing integration, and intelligence distribution
among heterogeneous smart components, applications, and their services.
iii. Self capable of exploring innovative forms of interactions with:

(a) Multi-protocol integration.

(b) Self interoperability with heterogeneous devices.
(c) Cloud Computing Services (IaaS, Paas, and SaaS).
(d) Self-identification of RFID tags and other related services.
(e) Intelligent distribution systems.

2.3 Communication Technologies of IoT

There exists an almost bewildering choice of connectivity options for modern-day

applications.
These are based upon the products and systems associated with IoT. Major communica-
tion technologies of IoT have been depicted in Fig. 8.

2.3.1 Radio‑Frequency Identification (RFID)

RFID system is composed of one or more reader(s) and several RFID tags. RFID tags are
characterized by a specific address and applied upon objects. They make use radio-fre-
quency electromagnetic fields to transfer data associated to an object as shown in Fig. 9.
These tags are embedded with electronically stored information which can be read by
RFID reader when the object came in the proximity of the reader [35]. RFID allows moni-
toring objects in real-time, without the need of being in line-of-sight. An RFID tag comes
in three configurations. The first one is the Passive Reader Active Tag (PRAT) in which
the reader is passive and receives the signal from the battery-operated active tags, whereas
the second one is the Active Reader Passive Tag (ARPT), which is most commonly used
for communication purposes [36]. The third one is an Active Reader Active Tag (ARAT).

Fig. 8  Communication technologies of IoT

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 1702 A. Khanna, S. Kaur

Fig. 9  Working of RFID

RFIDs are the most commonly used techniques of communication. RFID is categorized
into 4 different segments as depicted in Table 7.

2.3.2 IEEE 802.15.4

It is a standard which specifies the physical layer and media access control for Low-Rate
Wireless Personal Area Networks (LR-WPANs). The original version of IEEE 802.15.4
supported 826 and 915 MHz frequency bands, while the working model supports 2.4 GHz
ISM band. The basic framework conceives a 10 m communications range with a transfer
rate of 250 kbit/s [37].

2.3.3 Zensys Wave (Z‑Wave)

Z-Wave is a low-power wireless communication protocol for Home Automation Networks

(HAN). It is used widely in remote control applications for smart homes, as well as small-
size commercial domains. In Europe, it operates at 868.42 MHz, whereas in Canada and
the USA it uses 908.42 MHz bandwidth for communication. The distance between two
nodes should not be exceeding 30 meters.

2.3.4 Long Term Evolution (LTE)

LTE is a standard wireless communication protocol for high-speed data transfer between
mobile phones based on Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) network tech-
nologies. It supports up to a maximum of 100 MHz. Data upload and download often
encounter lower latency rate and higher throughout [38].

Table 7  RFID categories RFID type RFID operating frequency

Low frequency 125–134 kHz

High frequency 13.56 MHz
Ultra high frequency 860–960 MHz
Super high frequency 2.45 GHz

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Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A… 1703

2.3.5 Near‑Field Communication (NFC)

NFC is quite similar to RFID. It is overlooked as the integration of RFID readers onto a
mobile phone. NFC is also be seen as a unique kind of a radio communication device that
is enabled on mobile devices either by tracing inbuilt options that need to be activated or
by them two devices close in the proximity [39]. NFC is a short-range, low power wireless
link evolved from RFID that can transfer small amounts of data between two devices held
in proximity. It enables the communication between two smart objects, that is safe, as this
cannot be done from a remote location [40].

2.3.6 Ultra‑wide Band (UWB)

UWB communication technology is designed to support communications within low range

coverage areas, that are similar to NFC that uses low energy. However, high bandwidth is
used for applications to connect sensors for communication. It is capable of a maximum of
500 MHz bandwidth. It was earlier known as radio pulse.

2.3.7 Machine to Machine (M2M)

M2M refers to the communications either between computers, embedded processors,

smart sensors, actuators or with mobile devices. Usage of M2M communication has been
increasing at a fast pace during the last recent years [41]. There are a total of five basic
components for any M2M communication technique, i.e., sensing, heterogeneous access,
information processing, applications, and services [42]. M2M is a five-part structure that
constitutes of following parts:

i. M2M Device: A device capable of replying to request for data contained within that
device.
ii. M2M Area Network (Device Domain): Provide connectivity between M2M Devices
and M2M Gateways.
iii. M2M Gateway: Use M2M capabilities to ensure M2M Devices inter-working and
interconnection to the communication network.
iv. M2M Communication Networks (Network Domain): Communications between the
M2M Gateway(s) and M2M application.
v. M2M Applications: Contains the middleware layer where data goes through various
application services and is used by the specific business-processing engines.

2.3.8 IPv6 Low‑Power Wireless Personal Area Network (6LoWPAN)

Internet Protocol (IP) is based on technology of 6LowPAN. This network protocol defines
encapsulation and header compression mechanisms. The standard has the freedom of fre-
quency band and physical layer and can also be used across multiple communications plat-
forms, including Ethernet, Wi-Fi, IEEE 802.15.4, and sub 1 GHz ISM.
Table  8 depicts an overview of various communication technologies used for IoT
communication.

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3 Applications of IoT

IoT has a lot of potential for social, environmental, and economic impact towards its
adaptation. Mobility, Smart Grid, Smart Homes/Buildings, Public Safety and Envi-
ronment Monitoring, Medical and Healthcare, Industrial Processing, Agriculture and
Breeding, and Independent Living are some of the IoT based concepts. All these appli-
cations are associated with us in one way or another. Usage of these applications and
vivid benefits have an important role and now there is a huge dependency on their exist-
ence. During recent years, their existence and usability have attained a visionary scale
and have become of paramount importance. It may not be incorrect to state that the
future of the Internet is purely based on the concept and vision of IoT, which drives
us into the future practically. Various application areas of IoT have been depicted in
Fig. 10. The research work is carried out on the basics of functional aspects of applica-
tions and prominent work done by various researchers over the years, has been explained
in the upcoming part of the article.

3.1 Smart Mobility

Smart Mobility is the methodology that allows seamless, efficient, and flexible travel
across various modes. With the change in time and constant increase in demands of the
society, Vehicular Ad-hoc Network (VANETs) has been much in talks. Hence, it can be
stated that it is a paradigm shift to a more flexible and multi-modal transport system. It is
indeed the pillar for the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) that tends to improve road safety either
by preventing or reducing road accidents, giving new solutions towards optimized trans-
portation modes. There are numerous other issues related to traffic problems, commuting
from one place to another which have been undertaken by various researchers for improve-
ment. Based on existing resources, researchers have come up with newer techniques in the
field of mobility. Some of the major contributions in this domain are as under:
Zorzi et al. highlighted the current standings of the IoT under smart mobility domain.
Issues related to Smart Mobility and technical challenges related to wireless communica-
tions have been highlighted within the study [43].
Hank et al. proposed a novel communication network along with topologies and compo-
nents that described an evolutionary path for bringing Ethernet specifically for automotive
applications with a focus primarily on electric mobility. Ethernet has been broadly used for
undertaking various experiments. The most conversed about is the Advanced Driver Assis-
tant Systems (ADAS), which catered navigation and positioning, multimedia and connec-
tivity issues systems have been studied [44].
Kyriazis et al. highlighted impact of smart vehicles based on Smart City IoT and Eco-
Consciouss Cruise Control for Public Transportation, that aimed at utilizing available
resources within the framework that provided driving recommendations in an eco-friendly
and efficient manner. The study revealed that the proposed framework was suitable for both
Smart city as well as for Smart mobility within a network [45].
Somov et al. highlighted the advantages of using WSN in the field of smart transporta-
tion. The study depicted the creation and representation of virtual real objects, i.e., sen-
sors that interacted with the Virtual Object (VO) model. Evaluations have been carried out
using a real city-scale traffic monitoring sensor network deployed in the various parts of
the network [46].

13
 Table 8  Overview of various communication technologies used for IoT communication
Technology Standard Year of discovery Downlink/uplink Range (in metres) Operating frequency (in MHz)

RFID Wireless 1973 100 kbps 2 0.125–5876

WSN Packet based communication 1970 1.37 Mbps 300 900
Bluetooth Wireless 1994 720 Kbps 10 2450
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…

IEEE 802.15.4 6loWPAN 2003 250 Kbps 30 826, and 915

Z-Wave Wireless 2013 100 kbit/s 30 868.42, and 908.42
LTE 3GPP, LTE, and 4G 1991 100 Mbps 35 400–1900
NFC ISO 18092 2004 106, 212 or 424 Kbits < 0.2 13.56
UBW IEEE 802.15.3 2002 11–55 Mbps 10–30 2400
M2M Open for all communication protocols 1973 50–150 Mbps 5–20 1–20
6loWPAN Wireless 2006 250 Kbps 30 915
1705

13
 1706 A. Khanna, S. Kaur

Fig. 10  Applications of IoT

Vermesan et  al. introduced the concept of connected Electric Vehicle (EV) within a
defined network. Furthermore, the study depicted an utmost extent of electric mobility
integration into the Internet of Energy (IoE), aiming Smart Grid infrastructure, that was
programmed for providing energy management solutions for transforming the EVs from
mere transportation mediums to an advanced transport connectivity platforms. The study
proposed new energy source architecture to use several energy sources that were installed
roadside within the proposed framework [47].
He et al. provided advancements that collaborated with the concepts of Cloud Comput-
ing and IoT. The collaboration of both terminologies provided an opportunity to resolve the
challenges that were being faced. A novel multi-layered vehicular data cloud platform was
incorporated within the study that hosted the concepts of Cloud Computing and IoT [48].
Jin proposed the requirement of automated services and remotely controlled infrastruc-
ture to meet the requirements of city inhabitants. Although usage of ICT based concepts
are utilized to the maximum limit, the authors proposed a framework that consisted of a
complete urban information system. The data could be managed through a Cloud-based
integration [49].
Lee et al. proposed an efficient vehicle tracking system for tracking the movement of a
vehicle within a specific domain network. The designed proposed an in-vehicle device that
worked with on the fundamentals of Global Positioning System (GPS) and Global System
for Mobile Communication for tracking the vehicle [50].
Ma et al. highlighted the need to undertake the issue of traffic congestion at one loca-
tion that hampered the entire network. The study experimented on the concept of deep
Restricted Boltzmann Machine and Recurrent Neural Network architecture that was able
to predict the traffic congestion evolution based on GPS data acquired from a taxi. A meth-
odological Graphical Processing Unit (GPU) based parallel computing environment frame-
work had been proposed by in the study [51].
Posland et al. proposed a trip zoom system in his study. The main objective of the study
was highlight the use of mobile sensors to classify various urban transportation modes, that
could generate information which was later classified for understanding a level of behavio-
ral shifts in traveling [52].
Table  9 depicts Evaluation of research article and Table  10 presents a Comparative
assessment for Smart Mobility domain.

13
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A… 1707

3.2 Smart Grid

Smart Grid is an electricity supply network that uses digital communications technol-
ogy to detect and react to local changes in usage. It can also be referred to as a digital
technology that allows two-way communication enabling the customers to put up the
requirement of electricity after performing observations with the help of sensors and
in reciprocation. The grid channelizes the energy as per the calculated requirement that
has been put before. Some of the major contributions made by various researchers under
this domain are as follows:
Karnouskos highlighted the future of a Smart Grid infrastructure. To boost the
energy efficiency, a dynamic ecosystem such as the smart infrastructure was proposed
in the study [53].
Bressan et al. explored the possibilities of implementing a smart monitoring system
over the WSN. A Routing Protocol for Low-power and Lossy Networks (RPL) was pro-
posed in the study. This framework was a lightweight implementation of the Represen-
tational State Transfer (REST) paradigm by utilizing a binary web service [54].
Farhangi in his study highlighted the comparative analysis of possible functional
capabilities a smart grid. Furthermore, time to time evolution in the field of Smart Grid,
i.e., Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)
have been discussed by length. Based on the existence of two generations of grid tech-
nology, emerging standards of the grid have been proposed, i.e., incorporation of Com-
mon Information Model (CIM), and possible support of TCP/IP among other protocol
modules like fiber optics, 1.8 GHz flavor of WiMax and DLMS/COSEM standards [55].
Karnouskos emphasized a strong coupling among various ICT that was embedded
with devices to provide a sophisticated dynamic echo system by using the sharing of
energy consumption and by actively participating in a household or building energy
management systems. Hence a Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) was proposed for
the existing devices that enabling cooperation and control over the devices. Further-
more, resources of Information Technology (IT) have been considered specifically as it
empowered the traditional processes and enables sophisticated cooperative services to
answer numerous challenges [56].
Rad et  al. in their study emphasized existing demand management between utility
providers and their end customers. Game theory was proposed in the research article
to formulate energy consumption scheduling where strategies were based upon daily
schedules of household applications and their energy loads [57].
Yu et  al. focused on researching the architecture and key technologies of IoT. The
research work highlighted principal characteristics for a proper integration proposed
architecture within a Smart Grid [58].
Bui et  al. (2011) proposed a Constrained RESTful Environments (CoRE) frame-
work that was programmed to obtain a web-oriented binary protocol which was simple
enough in terms of handing and aimed at serving a limited number of devices. The basic
aim of the framework was to channelize energy and traffic [59].
Yu et al. emphasized the importance of IoT for shaping a Smart Grid. The study also
depicted the practical significance in the development of IoT based Smart Grid [60].
Yun et  al. highlighted the concepts and technological advancements in the field of
Smart Grid. The study emphasized the usage of Renewable Sources (RS), i.e., Hydro,
Biomass, Solar and Geothermal energies instead of non-renewable resources like coal,
gas, and oil as it has been estimated that there are few decades left for these resources

13
 Table 9  Evaluation of research article for Smart Mobility domain
1708

Citation Issue faced Technique/methodology proposed in Strength Weakness

reference research article

13
[43] Issues related to minimization of read- ID splitting techniques Readily adaptable Contributions fall short from represent-
ing errors and calibration ing complete and definitive answers
[44] Encountered issues related to V2V and V2I or V2I+I communica- Ethernet projected as the backbone Security issues not discussed
Advanced Driver Assistant Systems tion systems proposed in EV enabling V2V and V2I com-
(ADAS) and Precise navigation and munication
positioning of vehicle
[45] Issues related to the management of Proposed Eco-conscious cruise control Suitable for both Smart City and Problems in decision-making and the
public transportation for public transportation Smart Transportation applications functionality of the process was lacked
transparency
[46] Automatic data management was not Proposed Virtual Real Objects (VRO) Potentials of the IoT paradigm demon- Security parameters were overlooked in
possible on existing framework framework for overcoming the issues strated successful traffic monitoring the proposed framework
faced
[47] Existing framework had major issues Proposed Energy Source Architecture On-going issue was resolved by intro- Numerous issues related to data transfer
related to the transfer of energy from (ESA) framework ducing the framework were still unanswered even after intro-
the grid to vehicle ducing a new framework
[48] Management of vehicular data over Multi-layered Vehicular Cloud Data Management of vehicular activity Complex and difficult to understand the
cloud was a tedious and time-con- platform proposed within a network became easy new framework for a novice user
suming task
[49] Issues related to Addressing scheme, Noise mapping architecture proposed Individual addressing scheme for In actual scenario, implementation of
Sensing paradigm, and connectivity nodes that helped in further iden- the proposed framework required
among nodes tification for performing various more promptness
computations
[50] Constant monitoring of vehicle A micro-controller and GPS/GSM/ Capable of tracking the vehicle and Probability of loss of GPS/GSM/GPRS
GPRS was used for tracing of the perform other related computations, network resulted in complete frame-
vehicle on a real-time basis i.e., obtaining vehicle’s current work’s failure
whereabouts, choosing traveling
directions, etc.
[51] Issues related to traffic congestion and Restricted Boltzmann Machine and Reduced congestion within the obser- No concrete information on network
its management Recurrent Neural network archi- vational environment congestion pattern and time limit for
tecture performing experiments
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
 Table 9  (continued)
Citation Issue faced Technique/methodology proposed in Strength Weakness
reference research article
[52] Congestion, safety, and well-being Tripzoom system was proposed Proposed framework resolved the on- –
while transit were main issues going concerns
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…
1709

13
 Table 10  Comparative assessment for Smart Mobility domain
1710

Citation Observa- Communication technology Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improvement
refer- tions observations tion proposed technique

13
ence conducted

[43] RT TCP/UDP Environmental and Traffic Europe – Further improvement in Self

Sensors management capabilities
and Energy management
techniques
[44] SB TCP/IP High-resolution cameras, Belgium, Germany, and Public Authorities, and Improvement in short/long
and VLAN Norway European Commission range radar systems
[45] RT TCP/UDP Sensors, Actuators, and Athens, Greece, Madrid, – Future extension of ICT and
Access points Spain, and London, calibration of proposed
United Kingdom terminology
[46] RT – WSN, Autonomous Sen- The Netherlands Municipality of Enschede, Complete automation of
sors, RFID, and Cameras The Netherlands Virtual Objects and further
improvement on the traffic
monitoring system
[47] SB – Ethernet, Power Line Com- Oslo, Norway, Hamburg ARTEMIS JU Internet –
munication (PLC), GPRS/ and Munich, Germany of Energy for Electric
GSM, and LTE and Milan , Italy Mobility (IoE), Norway
[48] SB Next Generation Telematics GPS, RFID, and mobile Evansville, Illinois, USA Complex structure and Dif- –
Protocol (NGTP) com- devices ficult to understand
munication system
[49] RT – RFID, WSN, GIS, and Australia Smart Santander and Inter- Further improvement in GIS
Environmental sensors net of Things for tracing current location
of vehicle
[50] RT TCP/IP GPS/GSM/ GPRS module, Flint, MI, USA – Possibility of implementation
Mobile phone, and of same experimentation
Google Maps with low cost
[51] RT – GPS, and GIS Ningbo, China Beijing Key Laboratory Future scope of improvement
for Cooperative Vehicle in prediction performance
Infrastructure and improvement on other
related parameters
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
 Table 10  (continued)
Citation Observa- Communication technology Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improvement
refer- tions observations tion proposed technique
ence conducted
[52] SB HTTP data transfer tech- Mobile sensors London, England Framework Research Flexibility and cost-effective-
nique Program funded by the ness in future models
European Commission
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…
1711

13
 1712 A. Khanna, S. Kaur

supply. The aspect of pollution concerns and other aspects have also been touched. Ter-
minologies like Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECS), Flexible Alternating Cur-
rent Transmission Systems (FACTS), have been suggested to be adopted [61].
Zhang et al. observations proposed M2M communications paradigm by the name of
Cognitive Machine-to-Machine (CM2M) communication framework. The framework
aimed at the energy-efficiency spectrum discovery scheme. Coordination based energy-
efficient spectrum discovery scheme also been proposed in the study for the Smart Grid
neighborhood area that was used for showing a significant decrease in energy consump-
tion [62].
Table 11 depicts Evaluation of research article and Table 12 presents a Comparative
assessment for Smart Grid domain.

3.3 Smart Home/Building

A Smart Home or a Building is a similar environment unlike any other living environ-
ment that is equipped with heating, lighting and other electronic devices. A significant
difference is that they can be controlled remotely either by a smart phone or through
a computer. During recent years, the concept of Smart homes/buildings have come
up by incorporating various devices to the Internet. Some of the major researches and
advancements are done in similar context are as under:
Darianian et al. suggested integration of homes by using the concept of RFID. The
study proposed a novel Read-Out concept for having a hierarchical wireless Master-
Slave reader architecture based on RFID technology for multi-standard Ultra High Fre-
quency (UHF) and NFC technologies [64].
Chong et  al. identified the rapid development of IoT and its integration for Smart
homes. The study highlights the characteristics, advantages and disadvantages for a
smart home. Browser/Server (B/S) module has been proposed in the study that provided
a more convenient, flexible, and easy mode to control [65].
Li et al. proposed adaptation of smart community architecture whose functioning was
considered to be robust and secure. The framework composed of a multi-hop network
for smart homes, where the frequency was intercepted via RFID that followed 13 unique
wireless communication standards such as IEEE 802.11 and the third generation mobile
telephony i.e. 3G [66].
Ji et  al. proposed usage of RFID tags. Objects were identified based on the tags.
Researchers proposed a design considering the architecture, infrastructure, intercommu-
nication, and realization of the smart home system [67].
Piyare proposed usage of a micro-web server, that could be connected via IP ser-
vices. A smart home hateway application framework was proposed in the study that was
flexible, easy to operate, and cost-effective [68].
Soliman et al. suggested an approach toward the development of Smart Home appli-
cations by integrating IoT with Cloud computing, and web services. The proposed
framework had an Arduino device that controlled various sensors and actuators through
wireless communication, i.e., Zigbee [69].
Wang et al. proposed a framework that could control home via a smart central con-
troller. The device communicated through a 433 MHz radio frequency that was able to
control a Wireless Sensor and Actuator Network (WSAN) [70].

13
 Table 11  Evaluation of research article for Smart Grid domain
Citation Issue faced Technique/methodology proposed in Strength Weakness
refer- research article
ence

[53] Proper management of energy and its Multi-agent system based simulator Test experiments were based on the Framework required update of data sets
optimizing efficiency techniques was proposed for eliminating the simulated environment which is very every year Correctness and robustness
ongoing issues close to real-world of software was not tested
[54] Unmanaged multi-hop routing among REST-based Web Services proposed Framework was based on REST Compatibility issues for a proposed
variables paradigm protocol not discussed
[55] Legacy issues to leap forward, without Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) and Correct identification of network for Problems surfaced when disparate
the need for backward compatibility Automatic Metering Infrastructure the upstream utility of assets systems, functions, and components
(AMI) begin to be integrated as part of a dis-
tributed command-and-control system
[56] Limited performance of existing Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) Approach was based on heterogene- Robustness of the proposed system not
simulators ity behavior of devices abstraction been observed
and Focusing was done for specific
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…

implementations at device level

[57] Voltage problems, damage to utility Distributed demand-side energy man- Proposed methodology was advanta- –
and consumer equipments agement strategy geous to define a based approach that
can be implemented so that updates
can autonomously accommodate the
changes within the system
[58] Distributed control among networks, Integration of proper function-able Current standings of IoT applications –
Demand prediction for the require- characteristics among all issues for Smart Grid application have been
ment of energy, Energy generation, highlighted
and Prediction forecast
[59] Proper management of distributed RESTful Environment (CoRE) Approach aimed at reducing IPv6/ Energy and traffic burden of the pro-
network UDP header for maintaining address- posed framework was kept on standby
ing space while performing simulations
[60] Issues related to high bandwidth and Resetting of communication lines with The system was flexible, mobile and Framework was costly and difficult to
rate, non-line-transmission ability higher bandwidth ensured that the supply of energy is maintain
and large-scale management reliable, secure and responsive
1713

13
 Table 11  (continued)
1714

Citation Issue faced Technique/methodology proposed in Strength Weakness

refer- research article

13
ence

[61] Key issues related to application Highlighted principal aspects of effec- – –

layer for information sharing and its tive sharing
security
[63] Issues related to M2M communica- Multiple-QoS flow scheduling The proposed framework gave custom- Simulations depicted an increase in
tions algorithm/CM2M communication ers an advantage to decide on their customer payoff
technique load profile based on the electricity
price
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
 Table 12  Comparative assessment for Smart Grid domain
Citation Observa- Communication technology Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improvement
refer- tions observations tion proposed technique
ence conducted

[53] SB Software agent paradigm – USA AVTA, U.S. Department of Individual appliance to
Energy reflect different energy
consumption
[54] RT 6LowPAN WSAN, and Actuators Italy Cariparo Foundation, Italy Possibility of a generation of
higher no of routing paths
for energy management
[55] RT TCP/IP – North America Electrical and Power Indus- To develop a transition
try and British Columbia system for next generation
Institute of Technology, technologies required to
North America realize Smart Grid
[56] SB IP-based infrastructure, and – Karlsruhe, Germany Cooperating Objects Future possibility of devices
UDP Network of Excellence to offer functionalities as a
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…

Centre, Germany part of service

[57] RT Energy Consumption – British Columbia, Van- – Usage of similar techniques
Scheduler (ECS) com- couver and Toronto, ON, to aggregate profile of
munication Network Canada commercial load within
industrial region
[58] SB Internet based communica- – Italy Industrial Electronics and Possibility of improving effi-
tions, and Web of Things drives at the University of ciency with less waste and
–based CPS architecture L’Aquila, Italy better quality of service
[59] RT Independent Press Stand- – Padova PD, Italy Office for Metropolitan Proposed terminology likely
ards Organization (IPSO) Architecture (OMA) and to be complex in near
based communication IPSO alliance future, costly and may
system fall short due to limited
capabilities
1715

13
 Table 12  (continued)
1716

Citation Observa- Communication technology Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improvement
refer- tions observations tion proposed technique

13
ence conducted

[60] RT NLOS transmission WSN, and Zigbee Beejing, China Implemented over all Scope of improvement in
industries related to energy efficiency to reduce
Smart Grid environmental impact and
improvement in safety and
reliability of electricity
supply
[61] RT Ubiquitous Identifier RFID tag, Camera, GPS, Hubei, China – Possibility of high speed and
(uCode) using ubiquitous Infrared sensors, and two-way communication
communication devices Laser scanner
[63] SB CM2M communication Radio Frequency, Zigbee, Oslo, Sweeden, China, Natural Science Foundation Further scope of improve-
and Sensors and UK of Guangdong Province, ment in connectivity
China
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A… 1717

Kumar proposed a framework that consisted of an Arduino Ethernet shield and Arduino
Mega 2560 device. The framework was of low cost, standalone, and a flexible smart home
system that could be controlled via an android [71].
Hemant et al. proposed an efficient, reliable, economical, flexible, real-time, and realis-
tic wellness sensor network for smart home systems. The system has been designed in such
a manner that the study could be extended from a smart home system to smart buildings
[72].
Rathore et al. proposed four-tier architecture that had the capabilities of data generation,
collection, observation, and evaluations. Based on data filtration, aggregation, preprocess-
ing, classification, computing, and decision making were performed. The throughput of the
proposed system increased with the increase in data sets [73].
Table  13 depicts Evaluation of research article and Table  14 presents a Comparative
assessment for Smart Homes/Building domain.

3.4 Public Safety and Environment Monitoring

Public Safety and Environmental monitoring is the process of making observations on

weather conditions, endangered species protection, water quality monitoring, and various
other parameters that are associated directly or indirectly to our environment. Applications
are incorporated with various sensors and other observational devices to monitor timely
changes in environmental parameters. Some of the most valuable contributions in this
domain are:
Castellani et al. analyzed the requirement of a distributed network that has sensing capa-
bilities that create an unprecedented market of opportunities for a variety of spurring new
services. Hence the study focused on the implementation of similar communicational tech-
nologies by adopting the REST approach that relies on GET and POST terms for commu-
nication [74].
Oliveira et al. emphasized on highlighting the security protocols of in mobile WSN for
observing environmental monitoring. The observations and later the communication of
data are based on LoPAN, Mesh Networks, and IEEE 802.15.4 platforms [75].
Cheng et al. emphasized on lifelong learning units that need to understand whether the
courses they provide are appropriate and their student’s learning effectiveness just as adver-
tisers need to understand the market and customers. The focus has been given to the learn-
ing strategies of the students. Environment for Lifelong Learning using Learning Analytics
(ELLLA) has been used to make observations [76].
Jia et al. had proposed the usage of RFID technology for obtaining various environmen-
tal parameters. The study aimed at highlighting the usage of RFID technology for obtain-
ing various environmental parameters [77].
Swan highlighted the rapid changes and their adaptation with the help of sensor plat-
forms like fitness bands, smart watches, wearable sensors, and monitoring patches [78].
Kelly et  al. proposed an integrated network architecture that had an interconnecting
mechanism for evaluating various parameters through smart sensors. The framework pro-
posed in the study consisted of a monitoring system and a combination of pervasive dis-
tributed sensing units for a concrete information system for environmental protection [79].
Lazarescu proposed a virtual view via IP considering WSN for environmental data col-
lection. The study aimed to introduce a system that was low on cost. It had the capability
of associating with several sensors, had a faster deployment, long lifetime, high quality and
low maintenance [80].

13
 Table 13  Evaluation of research article for Smart Home/Building domain
1718

Citation Issue faced Technique/methodology proposed in Strength Weakness

refer- research article

13
ence

[64] Challenging of observational capabili- Read out concept Proposed system was of low cost, con- Multi Standard Readers and supporting
ties within an environment sumed less power and comparatively tags were not incorporated
less complex
[65] Proper identification of implementa- B/S(Browse/Server) module The proposed framework was first of a Requirement of complete knowledge for
tions of RFID within homes kind, but was dependent upon SQL SQL statements was required to revive
statements the framework in case of system
failure
[66] Improvement in inter home intercon- Side Channel Monitoring (SCM) The framework was secure and had a Focus only on Wi-fi (IEEE 802.11)
nectivity technique robust inter-networking capability standard
[67] Creation of a smart home and its Creating communication through Every device was connected with a There were constraints on ontology
implementations phase RFID keys unique RFID tag
[68] Issues related to function-ability and Web-Server based on Arduino The proposed framework was of low –
flexibility in usage of devices within cost, flexible and the proposed moni-
a smart home toring system using Android-based
Smartphone
[69] Synchronization of smart home Various approaches to facilitate smart The framework was Arduino enabled Sensors required additional memory
devices on a cloud server home implementations and Artificial Intelligence was space
embedded within the sensors
[70] Managing and control of sensors and IoT-based smart home control system The framework was easily monitored, Focus was only on efficiency and lower
actuators via Radio Frequency 433 capable of controlling the associated energy costs
MHz devices
[71] Creating a flexible, standalone, and a Smart home application Hardware proposed was cheaper in No alert and notification system pro-
low-cost smart home system terms of cost and was capable of posed in the framework
switching functionalities
[72] Issues related to the design of smart Proposed and implemented an inte- Sensors were compatible with major There was difficulty in handling ISM
home/building environment grated framework based on the basic home devices band interference and the proposed
needs of a smart home/building system was less effective
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
 Table 13  (continued)
Citation Issue faced Technique/methodology proposed in Strength Weakness
refer- research article
ence
[73] A requirement of addressing issues Four-tier architecture Framework was easy to operate and Throughput of the system increased
related provide a more secure had decision-making capabilities with the in-case in data
environment among citizens of the
proposed smart city
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…
1719

13
 Table 14  Comparative assessment for Smart Home/Building domain
1720

Citation Observa- Communication technology Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improvement
reference tions observations tion proposed technique

13
conducted

[64] SB UHF, and NFC RFID, and M-RFID Helsinki, Finland Nokia Corporation Further improvement in
Mobile-RFID (MRFID)
reader devices
[65] RT IEEE 802.15.4 compli- Zigbee and Smart Sensors China Key Laboratory for Scope for improvement in
ant RF transceiver, and Advanced Control, China terms of flexibility and
USB communication creating RFID devices
with extensible interface more convenient for smart
module home system
[66] RT IEEE 802.11, and 3G Wireless sensors China State Key Laboratory of Further scope for improve-
Industrial Control Tech- ment in the proposed
nology, China protocol’s performance
[67] RT GSM, and Ethernet RFID, Sensors, and Actua- China Department of High Tech- Scope for improvement in
tors nology and Academy of interoperability among each
Inspection and Quaran- other, constraints of ontol-
tine, Shenzhen, China ogy and service-oriented
language
[68] SB M2m, Simple Object Sensors and Actuators Mokpo, South Korea NIPA, National IT Industry Future enabling of proposed
Access Protocol, and Promotion Agency, S terminology on 4G and 5G
Wi-fi Korea
[69] RT I2C bus communication, Zigbee, Moibles, Wearable Oulu, Finland – Implementations of other
GSM, and IEEE 80211 sensors, and Actuators household devices over
cloud infrastructure
[70] RT 433 MHz Radio frequency, Sensors, Actuators, and Beijing, China – Scope of improving building
and Wi-fi (24 GHz) controllers energy efficiency
[71] RT Radio frequency, and Sensors, Actuators, Tablets Mokpo, South Korea Department of Information –
3G/4G GSM and mobile devices Electronics Engineer-
ing, Mokpo National
University
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
 Table 14  (continued)
Citation Observa- Communication technology Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improvement
reference tions observations tion proposed technique
conducted

[72] RT ZigBee end device (ZED), Sensors, and Actuators New Zealand School of Engineering and Scope of Significant
and Zigbee end device Advanced Technology, improvement while using
plus router (ZEDR) New Zealand the proposed technique
with advanced wireless
technologies
[73] RT ICT based communication RFID, Sensors, and Actua- Anyang, Republic of Korea SW Human Resource Possibilities of further
techniques tors Development Dept, improvement in various
Anyang, Republic of functionalities including
Korea collection, aggregation,
communication, process-
ing, and interpretation
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…
1721

13
 1722 A. Khanna, S. Kaur

Zhao et al. had made observations concerning Environment Internet of Things (EIoT)
highlighting the proposed framework and its main features. The study proposed monitoring
of atmosphere, water, soil, and wind environmental indicators [81].
Fang et  al. proposed a novel IIS model that combined services of Cloud Computing,
IoT, Geoinformatics [Geographical Information System (GIS), Remote Sensing (RS) and
GPS], and e-science for environmental monitoring and its management [82].
Kantarci et al. highlighted the IoT paradigm that was equipped with sensing, computing,
and communication capabilities to enhance the capabilities of IoT [83].
Table  15 depicts the Evaluation of the research article and Table  16 presents a Com-
parative assessment for Public Safety and Environment Monitoring domain.

3.5 Medical and Healthcare

Often termed as the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) is the systematic application
mode that connects healthcare services to the IT system through on line various computer
networks. Medical devices are equipped with in-built Wi-fi systems that further allow
machine-to-machine communication based on the IoMT concept. Some of the most cited
researches done under this domain are as under:
Bui et al. identified various communication requirements for various processes and their
integration to the Internet as web services. The observations that depicted the requirement
of typical IoT protocols [84].
Istepanian et al. highlighted the potential benefits of using M-IoT in non-invasive glu-
cose level sensing and potential m-IoT architecture based on diabetes management has
been proposed in the study. The observations from the framework were sent on mobile for
information updates [85].
Doukas et  al. proposed utilizing generated data for future reference and usage by
uploading the data onto the cloud server. The study suggested a platform based on cloud
computations for managing the data [86].
Sung et al. examined the possibilities of synchronizing real-time remote identification
through WSN using the Android platform in the healthcare domain. Particle Swarm Opti-
mization (PSO) method was proposed in the study [87].
Amendola et al. proposed the usage of RFID based applications for body-centric sys-
tems for gathering information on human behavior in compliance with power and sanitary
regulations [88].
Fan et al. highlighted that IoT based smart rehabilitation systems were better techniques
to mitigate problems associated with aging populations and a shortage of health profes-
sionals. Furthermore, the study proposed an Automating Design Methodology (ADM) for
smart rehabilitation systems in IoT [89].
Xu et  al. highlighted the rapid development of IoT and the possibility of connecting
various smart objects via the Internet. The study further proposed possible potential appli-
cations of IoT in intensive information industrial sectors for healthcare services [90].
Yang et al. proposed an intelligent home-based platform, the iHome Health-IoT system
that had an open-platform based on intelligent medicine box (iMedBox) [91].
Hassanalieragh et  al. suggested networked sensors, either worn or embedded. The
framework of these devices was capable of gathering rich information that indicated the
physical and mental health of an individual [92].
Ukil et al. highlighted the significant importance of IoT in the field of healthcare. Proac-
tive healthcare analytics for cardiac disease prevention has been the Usage of smartphone

13
 Table 15  Evaluation of research article for Public Safety and Environment Monitoring domain
Citation Issue faced Technique/methodology proposed in Strength Weakness
reference research article

[18] Clearly identify a viable solution Trickle probabilistic broadcasting The proposed system suggested Real Occupancy rate of memory was higher
towards Internet-based SG system algorithm Time monitoring
[75] Key management, and message Study proposed Lo-PAN, Mesh Net- Study provided an overview of –
authentication works that were powered by IEEE security
802.15.4 platform(s)
[76] Identify methodologies for learning Lifelong Learning using Learning Filtering was observed on data No implementation and prediction mod-
effectiveness Analytics (ELLLA) ule available in proposed framework
[77] Security, and privacy of RFID tags Study provided complete overview of Study was incorporated of numerous Future advancements and updates of the
RFID’s working procedure parameters same sector have not been discussed
[78] Problematic aspects of making deci- Cognitive engagement of IoT devices The study provided a comprehensive Real time monitoring of the parameters
sions review on IoT solutions was not available
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…

[79] Security issues related to Zigbee Architectural design based on standard The framework had an integrated There was no estimation or considera-
Zigbee communications proposed network, architecture and intercon-tion for evaluating the entire city or
necting mechanisms for the reliabledemographic area
measurement of parameters
[80] Identification of versatile, and low-cost Virtual View via IP considering WSN Maintenance and cost of the frame- -
data IoT applications for environmental data acquisition work were low It accommodated a
was proposed high number of sensors and provided
a faster deployment
[81] Economic, Social, Urban construction, Observations with respect to Environ- Proposed framework monitored water, No scope for further improvement on
and management related issues ment Internet of Things (EIoT) was atmosphere, soil and wind properties EIoT platform suggested
proposed
[82] Monitoring and management of Proposed a framework based on IIS The study was vast, in depth and –
environment model covered major aspects of IoT with
respect to domain
[83] Availability of built-in sensors within study proposed a sensing network Framework Utilized S2aaS to assist –
a mobile device service that was equipped with Smart disaster management
phone over a Cloud Server
1723

13
 Table 16  Comparative assessment for Public Safety and Environment Monitoring domain
1724

Citation Observa- Communication technology Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improvement
refer- tions observations tion proposed technique

13
ence conducted

[18] RT Constrained Application Sensors, Actuators, Zigbee, Padova, Italy SENSEI, CaRiPaRo Foun- Further improvement in
Protocol (CoAP) and IEEE 802.15 dation, Italy the usage of standardized
protocols
[75] RT Application Programming Sensors, Actuators, and Portugal Instituto de Telecommuni- Further possibility of node
Interface Module via Access points cations, Next generation integration
IEEE 802.11 Networks and Applica-
tions Group (NetGNA)
[76] SB TCP/UDP WSN, Autonomous Sen- Taipei, Taiwan Microsoft Taiwan and Chi- Further improvement in
sors, RFID, and Cameras nese Computer Education teaching and learning
Association in Taiwan effectiveness
[77] SB TCP/IP GPS, RFID, and mobile China National Natural Science Further automation of
devices Foundation of China devices and cost reduction
[78] RT HTTP data transfer tech- GPS/GSM/ GPRS module, Palo Alto, USA Medical Device and Diag- –
nique Mobile phone, and nostic Industry
Google Maps
[79] RT 6LowPAN GPS, and GIS Palmerston North, New – Development of Low-cost
Zealand smart sensor node develop-
ment enabled devices
[80] RT NLOS transmission WSN, Zigbee Torino, Italy Dipartimento di Elettronica, Improvement key WSN
Dipartimento Elettroni- application parameters,
cae Telecomunicazioni, such as cost, productivity,
Politecnico di Torino reliability, interoperability,
and maintenance
[81] SB UHF and NFC Zigbee, and Smart Sensors China Urban Environment and Future scope of improvement
Health, Institute of Urban for Ecology, Culture, Poli-
Environment, Chinese tics, Governance, Society,
Academy of Sciences, and Economy
Xiamen, China
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
 Table 16  (continued)
Citation Observa- Communication technology Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improvement
refer- tions observations tion proposed technique
ence conducted

[82] RT GSM, and Ethernet Sensors, Actuators, and China – Improving the integration
controllers and scientific laws of urban
development and ecological
processes for sustainable
city construction
[83] RT Radio frequency, and Sensors and Actuators Ottawa, Canada – Disinformation probability
3G/4G GSM could be degraded
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…
1725

13
 1726 A. Khanna, S. Kaur

for an exemplary case has been depicted in the study. The proposed methodology only was
able to detect the threat of heart attack and no alarm or notification framework was pro-
posed in the study [93].
Table  17 depicts Evaluation of research article and Table  18 presents a Comparative
assessment for Medical and Healthcare domain.

3.6 Industrial Processing

During recent years, the concept of IoT has also flourished in the field of industry. Modern-
day industrial equipments and requirements are so intense that the functional capabilities
of IoT are either molded or designed in specific to cater to the needs of the industry. Some
of the recent advancements of IoT in the field of Industrial domain are as follows:
Kovatsch et al. proposed a common approach for the possibility of interconnecting of
heterogeneous devices with diverse functionalities. A Californium (Cf) CoAP framework
was proposed in the study. The goals were realized using the proposed framework [94].
Durkop et al. highlighted runtime mechanisms and other delivering tools to significantly
simplify commissioning, operating, and maintaining complex production processes [95].
Palattella et  al. proposed the use of a standardized IoT architecture as suggested by
IETF. A data-centric scheduling algorithm, Traffic-Aware Scheduling Algorithm (TASA)
has also been proposed in the study [96].
Bi et  al. proposed an Enterprise Systems (ESs) in the study for communication, data
acquisition, and all decision-making activities [97].
Chi et  al. suggested solving the problem of several sampling rates and signal types
because of restricted devices. A Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) has been
proposed through the main controller [98].
He et al. proposed the first of its kind architecture that was used to store the interpret
IoT data. Then a resource-based data accessing method, i.e., Ubiquitous Data Accessing
Internet of Things (UDA-IoT) acquired and processed IoT data ubiquitously to improve the
accessibility to data resources. On successful evaluation, the proposed framework demon-
strated the functioning of emergency medical services to integrate, collect and inter-oper-
ate IoT data at the time of emergency medical services [99].
Perera et al. evaluated various available resources and methodologies for the Industrial
Market perspective. Evolution in terms of technology has been observed. Context-Aware
computing theories, evaluation framework, and communication mediums have been dis-
cussed [100].
Yan et al. proposed a framework based on a super frame structure for slotted MAC. The
framework designed by IWSN designers achieved the objective by minimizing the MAC
access latency [101].
Qiu et al. in their study presented a deep knowledge on various public logistics services.
A Supply Hub in Industrial Park (SHIP) application was proposed in the study to achieve
the objective of information sharing and real-time visibility. This proposed framework had
an efficiency of sharing physical assets and services along with effectiveness [102].
Reaidy et al. proposed an IoT infrastructure for collaborative warehouse. The study inte-
grated a bottom-up approach with numerous mechanisms like Decision Support Systems
(DSS), self-organizing, and negotiation protocols among agents based on “com-peration =
competition + cooperation” concept [103].
Table 19 depicts the Evaluation of research article, whereas Table 20 presents a Com-
parative assessment for Industrial Processing domain respectively.

13
 Table 17  Evaluation of research article for Medical and Healthcare domain
Citation Issue faced Technique/methodology proposed in Strength Weakness
reference research article

[84] Problems related to patient’s health IoT based paradigm The proposed system had an easier Observations recorded were for a single
integration on the Internet as web day
services
[85] Identification of low glucose level Intelligent Identification and Manage- M-IoT based non-invasive glucose Authenticity of the framework has been
within body ment technique was proposed for level sensing framework was imple- evaluated only on one person
patients suffering from high sugar mented
levels
[86] Data storage and management of Medical sensor communication The interface had easy uploading of Data was managed and utilized by an
patient’s record technique data onto a cloud server and data open hardware system
was intact for future reference
[87] Node signal processing, WSN localiza- Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) The proposed framework’s synchroni- No practical implementation performed
tion, and anti-collision information- zation with WSN was easy
aggregation
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…

[88] Issues related to tissue’s regrowth and Feasibility of compounds classification Applications were based on body- –
prosthesis displacement based on RFID applications centric systems
[89] Problems associated with aging Ontology-based Automating Design Study was based on the foundation –
populations and shortage of health Methodology (ADM) for smart for disease diagnosis and resource
professionals rehabilitation the system in IoT allocation only
[90] Sharing of medical information during UDA-Io) method The proposed framework could easily Objects in IoT caused the heterogeneity
service processing integrate the data and flexibility problem
[91] Advancement to develop user-friendly An intelligent home-based healthcare The proposed framework had an abil- Objects in IoT caused the heterogeneity
sensors IoT system ity to easily integrate the data and problem
flexibility
 iHome
 Health-IoT
[92] Synchronization of data over Cloud Energy constrained WPAN devices to e-study highlighted various other No alert/notification system available
server upload data onto cloud server opportunities for attaining the scope
1727

13
 Table 17  (continued)
1728

Citation Issue faced Technique/methodology proposed in Strength Weakness

reference research article

13
[93] Issues related to healthcare analytics Proactive healthcare technique for Able to detect the possibility of a –
for timely cardiac disease prevention cardiac disease prevention proposed cardiac arrest by observing the vitals
The framework is also compatible
with smart-phone
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
 Table 18  Comparative assessment for Medical and Healthcare domain
Citation Observa- Communication technology Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improvement
refer- tions observations tion proposed technique
ence conducted

[84] RT Constrained Application Wireless Medical Sensors Ferrara and Padova, Italy Symbiotic Wireless Further improvements
Protocol (CoAP) based Autonomous Powered improvements in e-Health
communication system (SWAP), Italy pointed towards a fourth
paradigm
[85] RT 6LoWPAN, and emergin Sensors London, UK UKIERI Research Center Possibility of further clinical
4G networks analysis
[86] RT iDigi M2M communication Sensors Samos and Lamia, Greece Greek General Secretariat Proper analysis, management
of Research and Technol- and processing of acquired
ogy information
[87] RT ICT based communication RFID, and ZigBee Taichung, Taiwan National Science Council of Deployment and implemen-
Taiwan tation of framework among
employees for body health
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…

check on individual basis

[88] SB 433 MHz Radio frequency, Wearable tags, Zigbee Rome and Palermo, Italy – Possibility of synthesis of
and Wi-fi (2.4 GHz) existing RFID research and
technology for personal
healthcare environment
[89] RT TCP/IP Sensors, Actuators, and Shanghai and Hefei, China – Popularization of the smart
controllers and Norfolk,VA, USA rehabilitation systems in
hospitals, rehabilitation
centers, communities and
homes
[90] RT I2C bus communication, Zigbee and Smart Sensors Shanghai, China – Future scope of adaptation
GSM, and IEEE 802.11 of UDA-IoT method for
information-intensive
industries
[91] RT ICT based communication RFID, Sensors, and Actua- Shanghai, China Fudan University, Shanghai, Plastic insulation layer over
techniques tors China the patch to protect the
conductive traces on iMeb-
1729

13
Box’s GUI
 Table 18  (continued)
1730

Citation Observa- Communication technology Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improvement
refer- tions observations tion proposed technique

13
ence conducted

[92] RT 6LoWPAN RFID, M-RFID Rochester and Postdam, Nvidia Corp Integration of remote health
NY, USA monitoring technologies
in clinical practice of
medicine
[93] SB TCP/UDP Sensors, Actuators, and – – –
Access points
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A… 1731

3.7 Agriculture and Breeding

Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) is defined as an approach for transforming and reorient-

ing agricultural development under the practical realities of climate change. There have
been enormous changes in the techniques and methodologies for performing agricultural
activities. The new-age farmer has now moved from the conceptual farming to modern-
ized concepts. Researchers working under this domain have come up with theories and
practices that incorporate smart devices to evaluate the parameters that contribute towards
the growth of plants and according to the observations, the agricultural activities are per-
formed. Some of the major contributions under this domain are as follows:
Zhao et  al. projected the benefits of performing agricultural activities within a green-
house technology. Furthermore, the process of automating the zone by incorporating the
concepts of IoT technology. The authors highlighted incorporating control through infor-
mation networks within the testbed. Hence, a framework that combined both Remote Mon-
itoring System (RMS) with Internet and wireless communications were proposed [104].
Liqiang et al. suggested an agricultural application on the parameters of WSN. The
framework had sensors that gathered data sets related to temperature and humidity
within the testbed. The framework’s application captured crop growth images from time
to time [105].
Yae-e (2011) proposed the Intellegent Agricultural Management and Information
Management (IAMIS) framework for identifying the untouched features of agricultural
activities. Furthermore, the information stored in the proposed framework was acces-
sible to all those who further wished to carry out the same process and for terminal cus-
tomers through personal computers, tablets or via cell phones [106].
Bo et  al. proposed the usage of Cloud Computing techniques and its significant
importance for IoT. The study proposed collaboration of two techniques to analyze the
feasibility and prospect of combination among both techniques. The experimentations
carried out on the study proved that a combination of these two technologies could suc-
cessfully resolve problems and could eliminate development bottlenecks [107].
Bandyopadhyay et al. highlighted a state-of-the-art framework for key technological
drivers on IoT. The study also visionized the help farmers could obtain from IoT appli-
cations for acquiring information for delivering of crops directly to customers within
small region [108].
Chen et al. proposed a framework named RPL that was compatible with COOJA sim-
ulator [109].
Li (2012) has focused towards modern agricultural cultivation and management per-
spective with the help of WSN. The study proposed Precision Agriculture Irrigation
System with a focus was on hardware and network architecture along with software pro-
cesses that controlled Precision Irrigation System [110].
Kaloxylos et al. in their study highlighted the importance of precision farming sys-
tems that played an important role in improving farming activities. A Farm Manage-
ment System (FMS) has been proposed in the study [111].
Tongke et al. highlighted the issues concerning agriculture. The study depicted one
solution to the problems encountered for agricultural modernization. The authors pro-
posed the usage of IoT concepts and cloud computing techniques for performing agri-
cultural activities [112].
Ojha et  al. the study depicted the advent of WSN techniques that spurred a new
direction of research in the field of farming domain. The study highlighted the potential

13
 Table 19  Evaluation of research article for Industrial domain
1732

Citation reference Issue faced Technique/methodology proposed in Strength Weakness

research article

13
[94] Diverse functionalities of heteroge- Californium (Cf) CoAP framework Separate application from logic had Error tendency was observed in the
neous devices has been proposed the added advantage study and application developed was
deployed without any knowledge of
the embedded domain
[95] Identification of required signals and Auto configuration technique pro- The framework was easy to operate Extension for a controller of a PN IO
real-time communication posed in the study and simple commissioning of the the network was not possible
protocol was possible
[96] Building of schedules depending IETF architecture proposed in the The proposed network easily Network-side operations were not
on the topology and data traffic study undertook serious engineering possible
requirements framework and strengthened the
requirements
[97] Enterprise Systems (ES) applica- An integrated approach based on the Proposed framework highlighted Framework was unbalanced and no
tions and their issues sensor network for water resource requirements of DSS within a responsive while dealing with all
management dynamic and distributed environ- types of changes
ment
[98] Multi-sensor data acquisition inter- Complex Programmable Logic Framework was compatible for solv- Framework was compatible only with
face with good compatibility and Device (CPLD) proposed ing a number of problems on the IEEE 14512 intelligent sensors
normative interface basis of sampling rate and signal
types
[99] Distributed enterprise applications Integration of industrial applica- The study identified the need to Gap to identify the need of functional
and their communication tions, i.e., RFID, WSN, and IoT develop different applications for specific industrial applications and
proposed for usage different business systems their development persisted
[100] Identification of gesture based com- Context-aware computing theories Evaluation of various available –
mands resources and methodologies for
Industrial Market perspective
[101] Estimation of the average MAC Mathematical and Simulation model The proposed framework minimized Simulation tools were limited to the
access latency within a network the MAC access latency active part of a super-frame
[102] Identification of current location, SHIP The framework provided deeper Further scope for guiding theoretical
current available capacity, and knowledge on public logistics perspectives untouched
route planning services
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
 Table 19  (continued)
Citation reference Issue faced Technique/methodology proposed in Strength Weakness
research article
[103] Identification of IoT standards and Proposed a sample data simulation Advancements in scheduling and –
their performance of “comper-ation” negotiation planning
protocol
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…
1733

13
 Table 20  Comparative assessment for Industrial domain
1734

Citation reference Observa- Communication technol- Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improve-
tions ogy observations tion proposed technique ment

13
conducted

[94] RT UDP-based communica- Sensors, Actuators, and Zurich, Switzerland – Extension of real-world
tion Access points deployment of IoT archi-
tecture
[95] RT TCP/IP based Real-time WSN, Autonomous Sen- Lemgo, Germany Fraunhofer IOSB-INA Extension of the auto
Ethernets (RTE) based sors, and RFID Application Center configuration capability
configuration service Industrial Automation, to modular and IRT PN
Germany devices
[96] RT IEEE 802154e Time-slot- Ethernet, Power Line Luxembourg City, Lux- – Development of proce-
ted Channel Hopping Communication (PLC), embourg and Bari, Italy dures and algorithms for
(TSCH) protocol GPRS/GSM, and LTE exchanging TASA signal-
ing messages
[97] RT IT infrastructure for data RFID, and WSN Shanghai and Shenyang, – Development of safe,
acquisition China reliable, and effective
communication and
decision-making
[98] SB M2M, and Person-to- RFID tag, Camera, GPS, Sweden and Norfolk, VA, ABB, Corporate Possibility of developing a
Computer (P2C) com- Infrared Sensors, and USA Research Center, relevant interface protocol
munications Laser scanner Sweden
[99] SB CM2M communication Radio Frequency, Zigbee, Norfolk, VA, USA and Institute of Computing Future development of
and Sensors Beijing, China Technology, Chinese enterprise architectures
Academy of Sciences,
Beijing, China
[100] RT IoT based data commu- Zigbee, and Z-WAVE Canberra, Australia Bei- – Research and development
nication jing and Wuhan, China in context-aware comput-
ing domain
[101] SB Industrial wireless sensor IWSN sensors Sweden, Shanghai, China – Refinement of interactive
network (IWSN) based and Norfolk, VA, USA part of framework
MAC communication
[102] RT IP-based infrastructure, RFID, and sensors Hong Kong and National Natural Science Further development of
A. Khanna, S. Kaur

and UDP Shenzhen,China Foundation of China analytical models

 Table 20  (continued)
Citation reference Observa- Communication technol- Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improve-
tions ogy observations tion proposed technique ment
conducted
[103] SB IoT based Collaborative Wi-fi, Bluetooth, and Grenoble,France and – Possibility of testing on real
Warehouse Manage- ZigBee North Dartmouth, collaborative warehouse
ment (CWM) protocol Miami, USA
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…
1735

13
 1736 A. Khanna, S. Kaur

WSN applications along with various challenges and issues associated with the deploy-
ment of WSN for improved farming [113].
Table  21 depicts Evaluation of research article and Table  22 presents a Comparative
assessment for Agriculture and Breeding domain.

3.8 Independent Living

Independent living aims at supporting elderly people in the best possible manner in their
daily routine to allowing them an independent and safe lifestyle. The concepts of IoT have
been invoked with major research work and contributions in this domain are as under:
Lopez et al. proposed the usage of RFID tags that have significant data storage capac-
ity. The usage of the NFC supported platform has also been proposed. Observed data were
available 24 * 7 via CarTwitter [114].
Zhang et al. highlighted on streaming the Quality of Service (QoS). Therefore, a QoS
model has been proposed that helped in improving and as well as streaming quality in a
dynamic environment [115].
Domingo had proposed IoT based concepts that assisted disables. Further, they pro-
posed IoT architecture from a technical perspective. Various application scenarios have
been proposed in the study to depict the communication of various devices among associ-
ated components via IoT [116].
Jara et  al. depicted diabetes therapy management techniques in AAL environments.
There are many factors identified that are associated with the rise and fall in blood sugar
levels. Since it is a very difficult task to maintain blood sugar level and often variations are
often observed while taking recordings, i.e., a patient suffers from either hyperglycemia or
hypoglycemia [117].
Memon et al. highlighted that most of the AAL systems remained confined due to a lim-
ited set of features that ignored essential aspects of the proposed system [118].
Kumar et  al. depicted potentials of VLCs in the field of ambient assisted living that
made use of radio and fiber communications. The proposed framework supported a high
data rate connectivity [119].
Konstantinidis et al. suggested a Controller Application Communication (CAC) frame-
work in the study. The proposed framework was independent of transmission and was
based on the concept of distributed computing principles, delegating server duties onto
use-site gateways that in return reducing the load on the main server [120].
Cubo et al. emphasized specifying and efficient implementation of device handling. It
also verified their heterogeneity and composition of devices and standardizing along with
managing data that helped in handling a large number of systems at one go. The framework
helped in avoiding standalone applications on local servers. It took care of Device Profile
Web Services (DPWS). The results were satisfying however, the number of applications
associated with it was limited [121].
Parada et  al. focused on parallel functioning of IoT concepts and Ubiquitous comput-
ing. The study proposed a weighted Information Gain (wIG) in its study as the empirical
method that helped in detecting unassisted, device less and in real-time user-object interac-
tion via RFID [122].
Li et al. sheds light on various ICT that provided numerous options to help aged people
in improving the quality of living by being healthier and living independently at all times.
A comparative description is given between wearable and non-wearable sensors [123].

13
 Table 21  Evaluation of research article for Agriculture and Breeding domain
Citation reference Issue faced Technique/methodology proposed in Strength Weakness
research article

[104] Issues related to control and manag- RMS framewrk proposed The proposed framework collected Study and its results are limited to
ing of IoT technology data that provided for agricul- greenhouse
tural research and management
facilities
[105] Proper monitoring of protocols Scalar Sensor Node technique has TinyOS that supported an energy- There were issues in context to
been proposed saving algorithm within the soft- scalability and reliability of the
ware system and the a proposed framework
framework capable of working for
hours on testbed
[106] Management of agricultural infor- Crop Tracking System (CTS) pro- The proposed framework had test Lack of security issues within the
mation for proper decision making posed in the study bed laid down for tracking of proposed framework
crops health only
[107] Exploring the feasibility of synchro- Approach to streamline the concepts Modern day concepts and equip- The proposed framework required
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…

nization of agricultural data on of Cloud Computing and IoT ments were used for developing technical knowledge, that farmers
cloud server the framework lagged upon
[108] Complete interoperability between The study proposed a state-of- Study highlighted a wider spectrum –
interconnected devices within a the-art framework based on IoT of challenges and opportunities
test bed concepts
[109] Development and maintenance of RPL framework proposed Initial simulations were performed –
applications incorporated for data by RPL depicted that its compat-
procurement ibility with COOJA simulator
[110] Hardware and Network architecture Precision Agriculture Irrigation Sys- Study aimed towards modern agri- –
for Software process control in tem (PAIS) proposed in the study cultural cultivation and manage-
precision irrigation practices ment perspective
[111] Existing information management, Farm Management System (FMS) The proposed framework had easy Tedious task to implement the frame-
and enhancement of existing model proposed access to data work over a bigger horizon
functionalities
[112] Implementation of cloud services The study proposed usage of IoT Massive data was generated for –
concepts along with Cloud Com- undertaking agricultural produc-
puting techniques tion. The framework achieved
1737

13
dynamic distribution
 Table 21  (continued)
1738

Citation reference Issue faced Technique/methodology proposed in Strength Weakness

research article

13
[113] Challenges and issues related to the The study suggested usage of WSN The study reviewed various applica- –
deployment of WSNs (devices, in agriculture tions and challenges of WSN. The
sensors, and their communication framework was further extended
techniques) for improved farming to understand the shortcomings in
the deployment of sensor devices
and other communication tech-
niques associated with farming
activities
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
 Table 22  Comparative assessment for Agriculture and Breeding domain
Citation reference Observa- Communication technol- Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improve-
tions ogy observations tion proposed technique ment
conducted

[104] RT TCP/UDP WSN, Autonomous Sen- China – Implementation of same

sors, and RFID technology over other
varieties
[105] RT CPT Protocol using Micro-controllers, RFID, Beiging, China – Experiments to be
GPRS/CDMA based Sensors, and Actuators conducted for further
communication increase the stability and
reliability of the work
[106] RT Transmission of network Sensors, and Actuators Beiging, China Beijing Municipal Com- Further scope for improve-
infrastructure through mission of Education ment in improved in
mobile communications efficiency and analysis
network
[107] RT IP-based infrastructure, WSN, and Zigbee Beiging, China Dingshan Professional Scope for improvement in
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…

and UDP Cooperation, Jiangsu large scale farms, and

Province, China increase in reliability,
expandability, economi-
cal, practical and higher
rate of efficiency
[108] RT IEEE 802154 protocol RFID tags, Sensors, and Kolkata, India Innovation Labs, Tata Further increase in effi-
using IP infrastructure Embedded edge proces- Consultancy Services ciency and productivity
by adoption of 6LoW- sors Ltd, Kolkata
PAN
[109] SB UDP, ICMPv6, IP, and Sensors, Actuators, Tab- Mokpo, South Korea Department of Infor- Further change in metering,
IPv6 based communi- lets, and mobile devices mation Electronics monitoring, control and
cation Engineering, Mokpo diagnosing
National University
[110] RT DTPS05Ci—Siemens ZigBee, Sensors, Actua- Lishui, China – Future scope for proper
Industrial Mobile Mod- tors, and GPRS based utilization of water for
ule and TCP/IP Protocol devices requirement based irriga-
tion
1739

13
 Table 22  (continued)
1740

Citation reference Observa- Communication technol- Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improve-
tions ogy observations tion proposed technique ment

13
conducted

[111] RT ICT based communication RFID, Sensors, and Greece, Germany, – Possibility of adaptation of
techniques ZigBee Finland, and The newer characteristics in
Neatherlands the field of agriculture
[112] RT 6LoWPAN, and emergin Sensors, Actuators, and China – Further improvement in
4G networks Zigbee efficiency and resource
usage
[113] RT 6LoWPAN RFID, M-RFID, Sensors, Kharagpur, India Infomration Technology Association of relative fac-
and Actuators Research Academy tors for improvement
(ITRA), India
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A… 1741

Table  23 depicts Evaluation of research article and Table  24 presents a Comparative

assessment for Independent Living domain.
Apart from the above-discussed research articles, some other relevant studies and
unique researches in the field of IoT under various applications by eminent researchers and
academicians have been cited separately along with references in Table 25. A brief descrip-
tion of various aspects, and application domains for the research article have been pre-
sented in Table 26.

4 Open Issues, Challenges, and Future Research Directions

IoT can mend the usage of the Internet the way it is required by its end-user. This feature
also has to face some of the open issues that are directly or indirectly associated with the
concept of IoT. Most common of them have been discussed as under:

4.1 Open Issues

Open challenges in IoT have been pictorially depicted in Fig. 11. All these issues can be
related to the existing pitfalls of IoT. Constant advancements have always been incorpo-
rated from time to time to overcome these ongoing issues.

4.1.1 Availability

Realization of IoT must be based on existing hardware and software, so that they can pro-
vide anytime, anywhere access as well as services. Since IoT at times misunderstood just
as software by many as an application that is capable of providing services. The hardware
part is equally important and is indirectly associated that functions with the help of various
protocols such as 6LoWPAN, IPv6, CoAP, RPL, etc. The entire setup is often understood
as a different unit. Hence an awareness of association among hardware and software by its
end users can contribute towards channelizing the vision in a much more effective way.

4.1.2 Reliability

The basic aim of having an enhanced reliability is to increase the success rate of IoT ser-
vice, by virtue of its capability of delivering information. It becomes a critical aspect.
Hence a series of checksums are required to be implemented over the hardware and the
software part of the IoT framework. A shortcoming due to system failure or threats from
intrusion always keeps the reliability of the framework as one of the major challenge in
IoT.

4.1.3 Mobility

Mobility is another challenge for the smooth implementation of IoT as most of the applica-
tions are based on a mobile interface. Since connectivity also plays a vital in the mobility
of data. Hence, a failure in connectivity among non -stationary devices are often taken
as incapability on IoT for not being capable enough to transfer the data from origin to
destination.

13
 Table 23  Evaluation of research article for Independent Living domain
1742

Citation reference Issue faced Technique/methodology proposed in Strength Weakness

research article

13
[114] Issues related to awareness of health Data on tag approach using RFID Data updated periodically and was There were security and privacy
tags available 24 * 7 issues with respect to framework
[115] Issues in PAN/LAN health devices, Electronic Health Record (EHR) The framework was flexible and Interoperability was not possible in
their communication and security proposed secure the proposed framework
modules
[116] Correct identification of disability An RFID-tag based navigation The proposed framework specially –
among children system designed for disables
[117] Issues related to generate alert in Proposed usage of RFID that The framework alarmed on varia- –
case patient suffers from hypergly- provided a global connectivity tions in sugar level, i.e., Hyper-
cemia and hypoglycemia for patient’s health connected via glycemia and Hypoglycemia. The
6LoWPAN framework also provided assis-
tance and considered more factors
for insulin therapy and dosage
[118] Issues related to data quality issues PRISM model checking tool The framework was platform ori- –
in medical sensors activity sen- ented, standardized and focused on
sors, location sensors and wireless patient’s health
communication sensors
[119] Issues related to dense low and high Suggested usage of potentials of vis- The proposed framework was capa- –
data rate connectivity while ena- ible light communications (VLCs), ble of switching functionalities
bling deployment of secure sensi- jointly with radio and fiber such as Automatic Environmental
tive indoor applications, including Control and Intrusion detection
indoor tracking and localization
[120] Addressing multiple modern con- Controller Application Communica- The framework facilitated numerous Various devices within the framework
trollers concurrently communicat- tion (CAC) framework devices played foul in terms of experiments
ing with multiple, device native, and observations
requesting applications, utilizing
standard and Internet communica-
tion technologies
[121] Issues related to appropriate Usage of ThingML langugae pro- The proposed suggestion had easy –
management of inter-connection posed for handing the information handling, verification of devices
A. Khanna, S. Kaur

among diverse devices sets

 Table 23  (continued)
Citation reference Issue faced Technique/methodology proposed in Strength Weakness
research article

[122] Navigation or unassisted indications weighted Information Gain (wIG) Massive data was generated for The framework detected unassisted
while shopping technique undertaking agricultural produc- devices and no standard or empiri-
tion. The framework only inter- cal method suggested
acted via RFID devices
[123] Issues related to support for elderly An integrated lifestyle management Easy to operate A comparative description has been
people system is proposed in the study highlighted between wearable and
non-wearable sensors
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…
1743

13
 Table 24  Comparative assessment for Independent Living domain
1744

Citation reference Observa- Communication technol- Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improve-
tions ogy observations tion proposed technique ment

13
conducted

[114] RT NFC 6131 using 3G com- Wi-fi, Bluetooth, and Spain Industry, Commerce and Future scope of improve-
munication mobile phones Tourism Department of ment in data management
Basque Government,
Spain
[115] SB Interactive, audio-visual, Wi-fi Changsha, China General Electrical and Future improvement in
and data communica- Intel Corporation inter-portability and
tion adaptive streaming of
proposed system
[116] SB Wireless embedded radio WiMAX, Bluetooth, and Louisiana, USA – Future scope improving the
communications at UWB design for specific inter-
2.4GHz, 915 MHz, and faces that can be designed
868MHz to manipulate the home
devices for automation
and control
[117] RT Serial communication RFID, and NFC Intelligent Systems Group – Information could also to
based on RS232 of the University of be shared on Hospital
Murcia Information System (HIS)
[118] SB ICT based communica- Sensors, and Actuators Aarhus, Denmark – Future scope of improve-
tion technique ment on design, technol-
ogy, quality-of-service
and user experience
perspectives
[119] RT M2M and Fibre optical Sensors, Filament based Aalborg, Denmark New – Factual real-time evalu-
based communication bulbs, and CFL Delhi, India ations of the proposed
using VLC framework
[120] RT GET and POST based Sensors, and Actuators Greece Industries participating Further scope of improve-
polling methodology in SOA ment in the quality of life
of people facing health
problems
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
 Table 24  (continued)
Citation reference Observa- Communication technol- Digital devices used for Location of experimenta- Industries adopting the Future scope of improve-
tions ogy observations tion proposed technique ment
conducted

[121] SB NFC and Universally Zigbee, and Smart Sen- Spain – Future scope of implemen-
Unique Identifier sors tation by home health
(UUID) technique gateway communicated
with the hospital and care
centers
[122] SB RFID based self enabled RFID, Wireless sensors, Denmark – Further scope of improve-
interaction technique and actuators ment in shopping experi-
ence
[123] RT Communication was per- RFID tag, Camera, GPS, UK – The proposed application
formed through static and Infrared has further scope for
embedded agent via potentially improving the
wireless network quality of life of older
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A…

people
1745

13
 1746

13
Table 25  Empirical classification of unique researches in the field of IoT for various applications by eminent researchers and academicians
Area of research Classification of review literature Reference citations

Smart Agriculture Agriculture and Breeding [104–113, 124–128]

Smart City Smart City, Aviation and Smart Tourism and Smart Homes [129–131]
Smart Buildings Building and Management, Construction Engg. and Management [64–73, 132, 133]
Smart Grid Energy Management [18, 53, 54, 56, 58–63, 74, 134–138]
Food Processing Food Management [139, 140]
Ambient Assisted Living Health, Smart Hospitals, Disabled Assistance [114–120, 120–123, 141–151]
Smart Education Library Services [152–155]
Smart Business Smart Logistics and SCM, Retailing [156–163]
Environment Monitoring Waste Management, Environment [74–83, 164, 165]
Smart Mobility Traffic Management [43–52, 166–172]
A. Khanna, S. Kaur
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A… 1747

Table 26  Comparative analysis Reference Applica- P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7

for various aspects, and Citation tion Area
application domains for the
research article
[43] 1 ↓ H LZ PE RT A A
[44] 1 ↑ M MZ D SB A A
[45] 1 ↓ M HZ PE RT A A
[46] 1 ↑ L LZ PE RT A A
[47] 1 ⟷ L MZ D SB A A
[48] 1 ↑ M LZ D SB A A
[49] 1 ↑ M HZ D RT A N/A
[50] 1 ↑ H HZ PE RT A A
[51] 1 ↑ L HZ D RT A N/A
[52] 1 ↑ H HZ D SB A A
[53] 2 ↑ H HZ D SB N/A A
[54] 2 ↑ M LZ PE RT A A
[55] 2 ↑ L MZ D RT N/A A
[56] 2 ↑ M HZ PE SB N/A A
[57] 2 ↑ M MZ D RT A A
[58] 2 ↓ L MZ D SB A A
[59] 2 ↓ M LZ D RT A N/A
[60] 2 ⟷ M LZ D RT N/A A
[61] 2 ⟷ M HZ PE RT A A
[62] 2 ↑ H HZ D SB A A
[64] 3 ⟷ M HZ D SB A A
[65] 3 ↑ H MZ PE SB A N/A
[66] 3 ⟷ M HZ D RT N/A N/A
[67] 3 ⟷ M HZ D RT N/A A
[68] 3 ↑ L MZ PE SB A A
[69] 3 ↑ M MZ D RT N/A A
[70] 3 ↓ H MZ D RT A A
[71] 3 ↑ M MZ PE RT A A
[72] 3 ⟷ M HZ D RT N/A A
[73] 3 ↓ M HZ D RT N/A A
[74] 4 ⟷ M HZ PE RT A A
[75] 4 ⟷ M MZ D RT N/A A
[76] 4 ↑ H HZ D SB A A
[77] 4 ↑ M LZ D SB A A
[78] 4 ↓ L MZ D RT N/A A
[79] 4 ⟷ M MZ PE RT A A
[80] 4 ↓ M MZ D RT A N/A
[81] 4 ⟷ L MZ D SB A A
[82] 4 ⟷ M HZ D RT A A
[83] 4 ↓ M LZ PE RT N/A A
[84] 5 ↑ L MZ D RT A N/A
[85] 5 ↑ H MZ D RT A N/A
[86] 5 ↑ M LZ D RT A N/A
[87] 5 ⟷ M MZ D RT A N/A
[88] 5 ↑ M MZ D SB A N/A

13
 1748 A. Khanna, S. Kaur

Table 26  (continued) Reference Applica- P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7

Citation tion Area

[89] 5 ↑ M MZ D RT A N/A
[90] 5 ↓ L MZ D RT A N/A
[91] 5 ↑ M HZ D RT A N/A
[92] 5 ⟷ L HZ D RT A N/A
[93] 5 ↑ M LZ D RT A N/A
[94] 6 ⟷ M MZ D RT A A
[95] 6 ↑ M MZ D RT A N/A
[96] 6 ↓ L MZ D RT N/A A
[97] 6 ↑ H HZ PE RT A A
[98] 6 ↑ M HZ D SB N/A N/A
[99] 6 ↑ H HZ D SB A N/A
[100] 6 ⟷ M MZ PE RT A A
[101] 6 ↑ M MZ PE SB A A
[102] 6 ⟷ M MZ D RT A N/A
[103] 6 ↑ H HZ D SB N/A A
[104] 7 ↓ M MZ PE RT A A
[105] 7 ⟷ M LZ D RT A A
[106] 7 ↑ M MZ D RT N/A A
[107] 7 ↑ M LZ PE RT A A
[108] 7 ⟷ M MZ D SB A A
[109] 7 ↑ M HZ D RT A A
[110] 7 ⟷ H HZ D RT A N/A
[111] 7 ⟷ M LZ PE RT A A
[112] 7 ⟷ H MZ D RT A A
[113] 7 ↑ M MZ D SB N/A A
[114] 8 ⟷ M MZ D RT N/A A
[115] 8 ↓ M LZ D SB A A
[116] 8 ↑ H HZ PE SB A A
[117] 8 ⟷ M MZ D RT A N/A
[118] 8 ↑ H HZ D SB A A
[119] 8 ↑ M MZ D RT N/A A
[120] 8 ↑ M MZ PE RT A A
[121] 8 ⟷ M HZ D SB A N/A
[122] 8 ↓ M MZ D SB A A
[123] 8 ↑ M LZ D RT A A

Table Notations: 1 = Smart Mobility, 2 = Smart Grid, 3 = Smart

Home/Building, 4 = Public Safety and Environment, 5 = Medical and
Health care, 6 = Industrial Processing, 7 = Agriculture and Breeding,
8 = Independent Living

4.1.4 Working Ability and Performance

Evaluation of the functional capability and performance of IoT services are consid-
ered to be a big challenge. Since performance is directly associated with the underlying

13
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A… 1749

Fig. 11  Open issues of IoT

technologies, it is very much mandatory to keep services updated from time to time to meet
the requirements of the end-users. Another factor is the evaluation of performance which is
directly associated with the price and quality of underlying technology. However, the end-
user does want the best of performance with less of investment, the issue of evaluation of
the performance of any IoT application remains an open issue irrespective.

4.1.5 Data Confidentiality

It remains one of the most critical aspects in terms of challenges, because of constant
change in terminologies and requirements of end-users, it is indeed hard to find a stable
ground for data confidentiality.

4.1.6 Management of Network and Its Resources

Establishing a connection with trillion of devices the service provides are often face issues
managing as well as addressing the issues like fault configuration, constantly managing the
performance and security of devices and its channels.

4.1.7 Scalability

It refers to the concept of adding newer devices over the existing paradigm without affect-
ing the existing services and functional capabilities of the existing framework. Hence, scal-
ability always remains a challenging task to achieve collective consensus.

4.1.8 Interoperability

To handle a large number of heterogeneous devices it is indeed a difficult task. Moreover,

issues also faced at the time of establishing synchronization among different platforms.
Hence, interoperability often remains an issue concerning IoT.

13
 1750 A. Khanna, S. Kaur

4.1.9 Security and Privacy

Since the concept of IoT is designed to transmit information over the Internet, data privacy
always holds a special significance. A lot of research works goes in making the data trans-
mission completely secured, however, shortcomings do occur at times.

4.1.10 Software Defined Network (SDN)

Over the years, the concept of SDN has been incorporated into many aspects of life. It
is an approach that allows network programmers to initialize, control, change and man-
age the work behavior dynamically via interfaces. These concepts work on simulation and
or a real-time basis. SDN function-ability is based on responses from Data Center Net-
works (DCNs) and available IoT environments [62]. Although the network is effective,
flexible and efficient, there persists some associated threats and challenges that cannot be
overlooked.

4.1.11 
Visualization

There are a lot of concerns related to the creation of a virtual version to eliminate the ongo-
ing concerns of modern-day applications. Its development, proper deployment and adapt-
ability to existing scenarios are one of the biggest challenges faced by IoT [173].

4.1.12 
Standardization Process

Standards are incorporated so that they can support numerous range of applications.
Even with the use of semantic ontologies, machine-readable codification does occur at
times which initially results in differences and misinterpretation due to different scenarios
encountered from time to time [108].

4.1.13 
Compatibility with Fifth Generation (5G) Communication

Even though when the high-speed communication system is facing a rapid transformation,
major innovations always rebuked by some of the commonly faced issues by 5G communi-
cation techniques for IoT based implementations. Some of the most commonly faced issues
are enabling physical layer techniques of modulation, timely handling of multiple input
multiple output and error control coding [174].
Although a lot of efforts have been carried out in the name of IoT. There are still several
aspects on which IoT needs to mature. A constant increase of interest by various academia,
industries and other related bodies associated directly or indirectly with the field of IoT
keeps on adding expectations that often lead to enhancement of challenges without real-
izing the basic requirements and functional capabilities of IoT.

4.2 Challenges

During the recent years, it has been visionary clear that challenges of IoT will be the mani-
fold and far-reaching as well. Majority of challenges have been identified by considering
the following two perspectives

13
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A… 1751

• Research
• Industry

Most of the IoT technologies in themselves allow identification of research and develop-
ment challenges after outlining a road map for future research activities to attain a reli-
able as well as practical solutions. The road map is formed based on the correct identifi-
cation of research priorities based on evaluation of the following identifiers:

• Identification Technology
  It’s main challenge is to map a unique identifier (globally unique or unique within
a particular scope), to an entity to make it without ambiguity identifiable and retriev-
able.
• Internet of Things Architecture Technology
  The biggest challenge in SOA is to become imperative for the providers and request-
ers to communicate meaningfully with each other irrespective of being heterogeneous
nature.
• Establishment of communication technology
  Biggest challenges faced in establishing a well-oriented communication are:
– Proper Deployment
– Constraint free mobility of items
– Cost
– Heterogeneity
– Communication modality
• Network Technology
  Correct implementation of the vision to reach out to objects of the physical world to
bring them onto the Internet.
• Network Discovery
  Overcoming the existing network dynamically to change the continuous evolving of
things, so that they can feature varying degrees of autonomy.
• Correct identification of data and further signal processing
  There is an enormous data generation when objects are synced over the Internet with
the help of sensors, hence following issues are of paramount priority:
– Semantic interoperability
– Correct service discovery
– Service composition
– Data sharing and collaboration
– Correct identification of autonomous agents
• Standardization
  Standards are to be designed so that they support a wide range of applications and
address common requirements of all the possible applications that are inter-related to
IoT.

Since IoT mainly evolves around synchronization of devices over the Internet, constant
advancements from time to time in every domain indirectly invites some associated issues
along with updates, which can neither be ignored nor can be overlooked [175]. Based on
the road map of identification of correct technologies, most basic encountered challenges
are:

13
 1752 A. Khanna, S. Kaur

• Uninterrupted network connectivity.

• Acquisition of complete informational service.
• Uninterrupted operational service.
• Security related issues.
• Proper management of on-going services.
• Correct identification of services.
• Standardization.
• Inter-portability.
• Information Privacy.
• Security and safety of objects.
• Data confidentiality.
• Data encryption.
• Dedicated spectrum.

some of them to name a few [176–178]. Based on the most commonly encountered issues,
several challenges have been identified based on various application domains of IoT that
have been precisely presented in Table 27.

4.3 Future Research Discussions

The concept of IoT as come a long way, over the years. Resources available under the hood
of IoT have fallen short and the existing scenario gives rise to several queries that in one
way or another, need to be addressed before we scale to a newer dimension. Keeping given
ever-increasing spectrum of IoT, some of the future related queries have been presented
that need to be addressed before we find ourselves enclosed in a new horizon.

• What would be the next big step to correctly identify and handle the huge range of
devices that are being added over the Internet?
• How will the next generation of information systems work in synchronization with IoT,
specifically when the technology is not constant?
• How will the newer concepts overcome the inherent complexity and data volume for
providing a useful DSS?
• Which IoT business model will drive the next generation’s global business and com-
merce?
• Will the objects (things) only rely upon only Internet services for communication, in
the mere future?
• What is the next big thing post IoT era?

5 Conclusion

This research article presents a comprehensive literature survey on the concept of IoT.
The term IoT has been broadly described keeping in view the current standings of IoT,
its evolution from time to time along with various communication technologies used
by various objects for interface and communications purposes. Furthermore, the study
represents a detailed literature review of various application areas of IoT highlighting
the author’s viewpoint on the issue faced along with the proposed methodology along

13
Internet of Things (IoT), Applications and Challenges: A… 1753

Table 27  Challenges faced by various Applications of IoT

Applications Challenges faced

Smart Mobility Unawareness regarding concept

Lot of investments required in bringing up the infrastructure
Existing structure not equipped
Compatibility issues
High costs involved in installation
Smart Grid Protocols vary according to locations
Lacks on memory space
Self computation is time consuming
No proper data acquisition framework available
Problems occur due to variations in tariff
Smart Home/Building Requirements differ from environment to environment
Higher costs involved in installation of devices
Knowledge required to re-configure if dis-connectivity occurs
Variations in protocols
Public Safety and Environment Monitoring Requirements differ as per geographical locations
Wear and Tear of devices with passage of time
Sensors installed in open
High costs involved in selection of devices
Difficult to manage enormous data
Variations in protocols
Lacks in terms of memory space
Knowledge required to re-configure if dis-connectivity occurs
Required skilled technicians to retrieve the observed data
Medical and Health care In adequate knowledge to end user
Sensors are highly over priced
Highly complex mechanism
Requires time to time update according to patient’s health
Timely updates required
Industrial Processing Sensors get outdated from time to time
Chances of malfunction
Agriculture and Breeding Sensor placement is at physical locations
Lack of awareness among farmers
Need to be cautious while performing agricultural activities
Independent Living Issues difficult to resolve in case of malfunctioning
No. of sensors increase as per requirements

with various other informative details related to the research article. Various param-
eters were identified to evaluate as to how a particular problem has been undertaken.
Hence a static value of 0, 1 had been assigned to every parameter and evaluation of
every research article has been done on a 7 giving each a specific weightage. Lastly,
Open Issues, Challenges and Future Research Directions concerning IoT have also been
discussed by length.
The following conclusions can be further drawn from the study:

13
 1754 A. Khanna, S. Kaur

• Since technology is not static, an existing era of IoT will soon be over and a newer
dimension of IoT would be overtaken in the mere future.
• Proposed methodology for any research article would fall short at one time, keeping in
view the ever-increasing demand and requirement of end-users.
• Data generated by various sensors is of paramount importance and needs to be man-
aged and evaluated with a high level of precision.
• Sooner or later during the next few years, almost everything that exists physically
would be connected over the Internet with the basic objective of interaction and precise
evaluation.
• Extensive research in this field will take a giant leap with only one motive, i.e., to have
0% human intervention.

Acknowledgements  The authors would like to acknowledge Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
(CSIR) for funding grants vide No. 38(1464)/18/EMIR-II for carrying out research work.

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Publisher’s Note  Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and
institutional affiliations.

Abhishek Khanna  is M.C.A. (2007), M.Tech in Computer Science and

Applications (2014), & pursuing Ph.D. (CSE) from Thapar Institute of
Engineering and Technology, Patiala, Punjab. He has several publica-
tions in reputed journals and conferences. His area of research includes
Internet of Things (IoT), Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN), and Preci-
sion Agriculture.

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 1762 A. Khanna, S. Kaur

Dr. Sanmeet Kaur  is Assistant Professor in Computer Science and

Engineering Department, Thapar University Patiala, Punjab, India.
She has earned her ME (Software Engineering) in 2008 and Ph.D. in
2015 from Thapar University Patiala. Her Ph.D. is in intrusion detec-
tion and signature generation under the broader area of network Secu-
rity. She is certified as Ethical Hacker (C|EH) by EC-Council USA.
Her areas of interest are Network Security, Software Testing and Soft-
ware Engineering. She has published more than 30 research papers and
articles in Journals, Conferences and Magazines of repute.

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