Telecommunication: Difference between M2M and IoT

 

    We've heard a lot about the Internet of Things (IoT) and all of its benefits for both users and product designers and service providers, but there is some confusion when it comes to IoT and machine-to-machine (M2M) communication.

Internet of Things (IoT):

    IoT can be defined as a system where multiple devices communicate with each other via sensors and digital connectivity. They talk to each other, work in tandem and form a combined network of services.

Machine-to-machine communications (M2M):

    M2M is direct communication between devices using wired or wireless communication channels. M2M refers to the interaction of two or more devices/machines connected to each other. These devices capture data and share it with other connected devices, creating an intelligent network of objects or systems. Devices can be sensors, actuators, embedded systems or other connected elements.

    M2M technology could be present in our homes, offices, shopping malls and other places. Controlling electrical appliances such as light bulbs and fans using RF or Bluetooth from your smartphone is a simple example of M2M applications at home. Here, the electrical device and your smartphone are the two interacting machines.

    M2M (Machine-to-Machine) communication as a part of IoT, one could say the Internet of Things as an evolved version of M2M.

Comparison between IoT and M2M :

Definition:

    IoT can be defined as a system where multiple devices communicate with each other via sensors and digital connectivity.
They talk to each other, work in tandem and form a combined network of services.

    M2M solutions contain a linear communication channel between different machines, which allows them to form a work cycle. It is more of a cause and effect relationship where one action triggers the activity of the other machine.

Interactions:

    IoT has a broader scope than M2M, as it includes more interactions, including interactions between devices/objects, objects and people, objects with applications and users with applications. It also enables the composition of workflows that include all of the above interactions.

    M2M refers to the communication and interaction between machines and devices. Such interaction can occur via a cloud infrastructure for example. devices exchanging information via a cloud infrastructure.

Interactivity:

    The main advantage of IoT over M2M solutions is the ability to add interactivity between devices. In this system, communication flows freely back and forth.There can be countless scenarios and combinations.

    Machine-to-machine solutions work by triggering action-based responses. It is primarily a one-way communication.

Scope of connectivity:

    IoT adds more sophisticated sensors. As a result, Internet of Things-based systems offer much more flexible and varied connectivity options.

    M2M solutions are mainly based on traditional connection tools such as wired connection, wireless network, cellular, etc.

Solutions:

    On the other hand, IoT creates 360-degree solutions enabling flexible responses and multi-level communication.

    M2M solutions, due to their limited scope, are limited to the creation of a network of machines working in synchronization.

Communications:

    The devices communicate via IP networks, integrating different communication protocols.

    Point-to-point communication usually integrated into the customer's hardware. 

Integration:

    Unlimited integration options, but requires a solution that can handle all communications.

    Limited integration option, as devices must have corresponding communication standards.

To sum up:

    -M2M is a term introduced by telecom service providers and focuses on machine-to-machine interactions via one or more telecom networks (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, satellite communication, public network).

    -M2M is part of the IoT, while M2M standards are prominent in IoT standards.

 
    -M2M provides a way to manage devices and their interactions while collecting data from the machine and/or sensor.

 
    -IoT has a broader scope than M2M, as it includes a greater number of interactions.

 
    -IoT includes the notion of Internet connectivity, but is not focused on the use of telecommunication networks.