What Is the Difference Between IoT and IIoT?

Internet of Things (IoT) and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) – the names almost give it away. One has to do with industry; the other with consumer convenience. But, what type of industry, and what does this mean for you?

Below we will clarify the two concepts to explain similarities, differences and the potential advantages of implementing an enterprise system for IIoT within your organization.

IoT – Internet of Things

Ever tried starting a coffee machine with your phone? Or adjusted the temperature of your fridge? Well, that is the Internet of Things. Household items or everyday appliances connected to the internet can be controlled from remote distances.

Today, the ever-present internet and new technologies have connected billions of products. Light switches, cars and home appliances provide efficient, safer and better experiences for consumers. The interaction with these smart devices paves the way for smaller electricity bills and more streamlined everyday life.

IIoT – Industrial Internet of Things

IIoT refers to the branch of IoT that is specifically engaged with the industries of manufacturing and agriculture. It is also about connecting devices and making them readily available and intelligent, but in a much larger scale. The end goal in the industry is increasing speed and safety to make production facilities run more smoothly, with lower expense.

With a system for IIoT, the flow of data and information quickens, and working staff can operate safer and at a higher speed. The result is quicker manufacturing at lower costs and with fewer resources. We explain the concept more in depth with this blog article.

Differences and Similarities

In principle, IoT and IIoT work in the same way. They both connect devices to the internet and make them smarter. The difference is that IoT works to make consumers' live more convenient, where IIoT works to increase safety and efficiency on production facilities.

IoT is B2C (business-to-consumer) and IIoT is B2B (business-to-business). For companies with multiple plants and production facilities the benefits of implementing IIoT solutions like Aptean EAM API PRO Edition and Aptean Industrial Manufacturing OEE are huge. The ability to monitor and analyze data, conduct predictive maintenance on the entire supply chain and manage staff from the same system will drastically improve production efficiency and eradicate a lot of paperwork. You and your staff will have easier access to KPIs, be more flexible and avoid costly downtime.

At Aptean we have more than 30 years of experience with connection of production equipment and machines. Want to learn more about how EAM or OEE solutions from Aptean can help your business' digital transformation journey to embrace IIoT? Contact us today to chat with one of our experts or schedule a demo.