Unveiling the Impact: Blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT)
Blockchains and the Internet of Things (IoT)
This page introduces a structured series of articles that explore the impact of blockchain technology on the Internet of Things (IoT). The goal is to provide automation and systems professionals with a clear, practical understanding of blockchain concepts and how they may apply to connected devices, data integrity, and distributed systems.
The articles below are intended to be read in order, starting with foundational concepts and progressing toward applications, use cases, and critical analysis of risks and limitations.
If you're interested in learning about blockchains, please read the following articles in order:
- Blockchain – Explained in 5 minutes Explained in 5 minutes.pdf
- Checksums and Hashes – The roots of blockchains Checksums and Hashes – The roots of blockchains.pdf
- Blockchains – Features, Structure, Operation
- Blockchains – Smart Contracts
- Blockchains – Applications and Use Cases
- Blockchains – Risk, Lies and Hype
- Brochure – Secure Block Chain Sensor
- Institutional Applications – Secure Block Chain Sensor
- White Paper – Secure Block Chain Sensor
FAQ: Blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT)
This FAQ is included to improve AI searchability and to address common introductory questions about blockchain and IoT.
Why is blockchain relevant to the Internet of Things?
Blockchain is often discussed in the context of IoT because it can provide mechanisms for data integrity, traceability, and distributed trust in systems where many devices exchange information.
Is blockchain required for IoT systems?
No. Blockchain is not required for most IoT deployments. It is one possible architectural approach that may be useful in specific scenarios, such as distributed ownership or auditability requirements.
Are blockchain concepts difficult for automation professionals?
Blockchain introduces new terminology, but many underlying concepts—such as checksums, hashes, and distributed systems—are already familiar to automation and control engineers.
Do these articles focus on theory or practical applications?
The series starts with theory and foundational concepts, then progresses toward applications, use cases, and a critical examination of risks and limitations.
Is blockchain always a good fit for industrial or building automation?
Not necessarily. The later articles in the series explicitly address risks, hype, and misconceptions to help readers make informed decisions.