Types of Communication in IoT

IoT is the connection of devices over the internet, where these smart devices
communicate with each other , exchange data , perform some tasks without
any human involvement. These devices are embedded with electronics,
software, network and sensors which help in communication. Communication
between smart devices is very important in IOT as it  enables these devices to
gather, exchange data which contribute in success of that IOT
product/project.

Types of Communication in IoT:

1. Human to Machine (H2M) 
2. Machine to Machine (M2M)
3. Machine to Human (M2H)
4. Human to Human (H2H)
 Human to Machine (H2M)

In this human gives input to IOT device i.e as speech/text/image etc. IOT
device (Machine) like sensors and actuators then understands input, analyses
it and responds back to human by means of text or Visual Display. This is very
useful as these machines assist humans in every everyday tasks. It is a combo
of software and hardware that includes human interaction with a machine to
perform a task.
 Human to Machine (H2M)

Merits: This H2M has a user-friendly interface that can be quickly accessed
by following the instructions.  It responds more quickly to any fault or failure.
Its features and functions can be customized.

Examples: 
• Facial recognition.
• Bio-metric Attendance system.
• Speech or voice recognition.
 Machine to Machine (M2M)

The process of exchanging information or messages between two or more

machines or devices is known as Machine to Machine (M2M)
communication.
It is the communication among the physical things which do not need human
intervention.
M2M communication is also named as Machine Type communication.In this
the interaction or communication takes place between machines by
automating data/programs. In this machine level instructions are required for
communication. Here communication takes place without human interaction.
The machines may be either connected through wires or by wireless
connection. An M2M connection is a point-to-point connection between two
network devices that helps in transmitting information using public
networking technologies like Ethernet and cellular networks.  IoT uses the
basic concepts of M2M and expands  by creating large “cloud” networks of
devices that communicate with one another through cloud networking
platforms.
 Machine to Machine (M2M)

Advantages –
This M2M can operate over cellular networks and is simple to manage. It can
be used both indoors and outdoors and aids in the communication of smart
objects without the need for human interaction. The M2M contact facility is
used to address security and privacy problems in IoT networks. Large-scale
data collection, processing, and security are all feasible.
Disadvantages –However, in M2M, use of cloud computing restricts
versatility and creativity. Data security and ownership are major concerns
here.  The challenge of achieving  interoperability between cloud/M2M IoT
systems is daunting. M2M connectivity necessitates the existence of a
reliable internet connection.
 Machine to Machine (M2M)

Examples:
• Smart Washing machine sends alerts to the owners’ smart devices after
completion of washing or drying of clothes.
• Smart meters tracks amount of energy used in household or in companies
and automatically alert the owner.
 Machine to Human (M2H)

In this machine interacts with Humans. Machine triggers information(text

messages/images/voice/signals) respective / irrespective of any human
presence. This type of communication is most commonly used where
machines guide humans in their daily life. It is way of interaction in which
humans co-work with smart systems and other machines by using tools or
devices to finish a task.

Examples:
• Fire Alarms
• Traffic Light
• Fitness bands
• Health monitoring devices
 Human to Human (H2H)

This is generally how humans communicate with each other to exchange

information by speech, writing, drawing, facial expressions, body language
etc. Without H2H, M2M applications cannot produce the expected benefits
unless humans can immediately  fix issues, solve challenges, and manage
scenarios.
The process of exchanging information or messages between two or more
people is known as human to human (H2H) communication. This can be done
through various means such as verbal, non-verbal, or written communication.