Read more here: https://www.infoworld.com/article/2238873/what-is-cloud-computing.html

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The world of connected devices, known as the Internet of Things (IoT), is growing fast. But keeping all that data safe and making sure systems work smoothly has been a big puzzle. Now, a technology called blockchain is stepping in to help solve it. Think of blockchain as a super secure digital notebook that lots of people share. When you link this with IoT devices, you get a system that’s much more secure, open, and efficient. This article looks at how this combination, often called blockchain for IoT, is changing how things work.

Key Takeaways

• Blockchain for IoT connects the security and openness of blockchain with the data from connected devices.
• This pairing makes IoT systems much more secure, making them harder to hack.
• Industries like supply chains, healthcare, and energy are seeing big improvements in tracking, data handling, and how smoothly things run.
• Main benefits include much better data protection, clear views of transactions, and lower running costs.
• While there are still some issues to sort out, like handling lots of data, the future looks bright for blockchain for IoT becoming more common.

Understanding The Power Of Blockchain For IoT

What Is Blockchain For IoT?

Think of the Internet of Things (IoT) as a massive network of devices, from your smart home gadgets to complex industrial sensors, all constantly gathering and sharing information. Now, imagine adding blockchain technology to this network. That’s essentially what Blockchain for IoT is: the integration of these two powerful technologies. Blockchain acts like a shared, digital ledger that’s incredibly secure and transparent. When IoT devices use blockchain, every piece of data they send or every action they take is recorded in a way that’s almost impossible to change or hack. This creates a system where devices can communicate and share information with a high degree of trust and security.

The Synergy Between Blockchain And IoT

The combination of blockchain and IoT isn’t just about putting two technologies together; it’s about creating something much stronger than the sum of its parts. IoT devices generate a huge amount of data, but traditional systems often struggle to manage it securely and transparently. Centralized servers can be weak points, making them vulnerable. Blockchain, on the other hand, is decentralized. This means data isn’t stored in one place but is spread across many computers. This distribution makes it much harder for hackers to attack the system.

• Decentralization: Data is spread across a network, removing single points of failure.
• Immutability: Once data is recorded on the blockchain, it cannot be altered or deleted.
• Transparency: All participants can view the transaction history, building trust.

This integration strengthens digital trust and enhances operational efficiency across industries—making IoT and blockchain one of the most transformative integrations of our time.

Core Benefits Of Integration

Integrating blockchain with IoT brings several key advantages that address many of the current challenges faced by connected systems. The primary benefit is a significant boost in security for the vast amounts of data generated by IoT devices.

Here are some of the core benefits:

1. Enhanced Data Security: By using blockchain’s decentralized and immutable ledger, IoT data becomes far more resistant to tampering and unauthorized access. Each transaction is cryptographically secured and verified by multiple nodes on the network.
2. Increased Transparency and Traceability: Every interaction and data point from an IoT device can be recorded on the blockchain, creating a clear and auditable trail. This allows for real-time tracking of assets and verification of data provenance.
3. Improved Efficiency and Automation: Smart contracts, self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code, can automate processes based on data from IoT devices. This can streamline operations, reduce manual intervention, and speed up transactions.
4. Reduced Costs: By eliminating intermediaries and automating processes, blockchain for IoT can lead to lower operational expenses and transaction fees. The increased security also reduces the costs associated with data breaches and recovery.

Fortifying Security In The Connected World

The explosion of connected devices, often referred to as the Internet of Things (IoT), has brought incredible convenience but also introduced significant security challenges. Traditional IoT setups frequently depend on a central server to manage data and device interactions. This creates a single point of failure, making the entire network vulnerable to cyberattacks. If a hacker breaches this central hub, they could potentially compromise a vast number of devices and sensitive information. It’s a bit like keeping all your important documents in one filing cabinet – if that cabinet is broken into, everything is exposed.

Enhanced Security Through Decentralization

Blockchain technology offers a fundamentally different and more robust approach to security. Instead of relying on a single central authority, blockchain distributes data across a network of computers. This decentralized structure means there isn’t one weak spot for attackers to target. Each transaction or data point is validated by multiple participants in the network, making it incredibly difficult for any single entity to manipulate or corrupt information. This distributed nature significantly reduces the risk of widespread breaches and unauthorized access. It’s a more resilient model, akin to having many independent guardians watching over your data rather than just one.

Immutable Records For Unwavering Trust

One of blockchain’s most powerful features is its ability to create immutable records. Once data is added to the blockchain, it cannot be altered or deleted. This creates a permanent, verifiable history of all device interactions and data exchanges. For IoT, this means you can trust the integrity of the information being generated and shared. Every data point is cryptographically linked to the previous one, forming a chain that is extremely difficult to break or tamper with. This unwavering trust is vital for applications where data accuracy is paramount, such as in supply chain management.

Advanced Encryption And Access Control

Beyond decentralization and immutability, blockchain integrates advanced encryption techniques to protect data. This ensures that only authorized parties can access specific information. Smart contracts, which are self-executing agreements written in code, can also be used to manage access permissions dynamically. This means devices can securely communicate and share data directly with each other, without needing a central intermediary to verify every step. This peer-to-peer interaction, secured by blockchain, streamlines operations and builds a more trustworthy ecosystem for connected devices.

The shift towards decentralized security models in IoT is not just about preventing breaches; it’s about building a foundation of trust in a world where devices increasingly make decisions and transactions autonomously. This requires a re-evaluation of how we design and secure connected systems from the ground up.

Here are some key aspects of how blockchain fortifies IoT security:

• Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT): Spreads data across many nodes, eliminating single points of failure.
• Cryptographic Hashing: Links data blocks securely, making any alteration immediately detectable.
• Consensus Mechanisms: Requires agreement among network participants before new data is added, preventing fraudulent entries.
• Smart Contracts: Automate security protocols and access controls, ensuring predefined rules are followed.

Revolutionizing Industries With Blockchain For IoT

The way different industries operate is changing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) is a big part of that. Now, imagine adding blockchain to the mix. It’s not just about making things more secure; it’s about fundamentally changing how businesses work, making them more efficient and trustworthy. Let’s look at a few areas where this combination is making a real difference.

Transforming Supply Chain Management

Think about tracking goods from where they’re made all the way to your doorstep. Traditionally, this process can be complicated, with lots of different companies and systems involved, making it hard to know exactly where something is or if it’s been tampered with. Blockchain changes this by creating a shared, unchangeable record of every step. Every time a product moves, is inspected, or changes hands, that information is added to the blockchain. This means everyone involved – from the manufacturer to the retailer to the customer – can see the same, accurate history. This level of detail and security helps build confidence throughout the entire supply chain, making it more reliable for everyone.

• Increased Transparency: All parties can view the product’s journey, reducing guesswork.
• Better Traceability: Pinpointing the origin of issues or recalls becomes much simpler.
• Reduced Fraud: It’s much harder to introduce fake goods or alter records when everything is on a secure ledger.
• Streamlined Audits: Compliance checks become faster and more straightforward.

Enhancing Healthcare Operations

In healthcare, the security and privacy of patient data are paramount. IoT devices, like wearable health monitors or remote diagnostic tools, generate a constant stream of sensitive information. Integrating blockchain provides a secure and decentralized way to manage this data. It means that patient records can be accessed only by authorized personnel, and any access is logged immutably. This not only protects patient privacy but also allows for more efficient data sharing between healthcare providers when necessary, leading to better-informed treatment decisions.

The ability to securely and transparently track medical supplies, from pharmaceuticals to equipment, also becomes significantly easier. This helps prevent counterfeiting and ensures that critical items reach their intended destinations without compromise.

Enabling Secure Energy Trading

Our energy systems are getting smarter, with more devices connected to manage power more effectively. Blockchain can make these smart grids even better. One exciting application is peer-to-peer energy trading. Imagine if you have solar panels on your roof and generate more electricity than you need. With blockchain and IoT, you could securely sell that excess energy directly to your neighbor, with the transaction recorded automatically and transparently on the blockchain. This not only creates new revenue streams for individuals but also helps to balance the grid and reduce reliance on large, centralized power plants.

Achieving Unprecedented Transparency And Traceability

Real-time Tracking Of Assets

Imagine knowing exactly where your valuable assets are at any given moment. With blockchain and IoT working together, this becomes a reality. IoT sensors attached to assets can continuously send location and status updates. This information is then recorded on a blockchain, creating a permanent, unchangeable log. This means you can see an asset’s entire journey, from its origin to its current location, with every movement logged. This isn’t just about knowing where something is; it’s about having a verifiable history of its movements.

Authenticity Verification For Consumers

For consumers, this integration brings a new level of confidence. Think about buying a product, especially something expensive or sensitive like organic food or a luxury item. By scanning a QR code or using an app, you can access the blockchain record for that specific item. This record shows you its complete history – where it was made, how it was transported, and any quality checks it passed. This direct access to verifiable information helps confirm the product’s authenticity and origin, cutting out the possibility of counterfeit goods. It builds trust between brands and their customers.

Reliable Audit Trails For Compliance

Many industries have strict regulations they need to follow. Keeping track of everything to prove compliance can be a huge task, often involving manual checks and paperwork that can be lost or altered. Blockchain provides a solution by creating an automatic, tamper-proof audit trail. Every transaction, every data point, and every change of custody is recorded immutably. This makes audits much simpler and more reliable. Instead of sifting through piles of documents, auditors can simply review the blockchain record, which is a complete and trustworthy history of all activities. This drastically reduces the risk of errors and makes it easier to meet regulatory requirements.

The combination of IoT’s data-gathering capabilities and blockchain’s secure record-keeping creates a powerful system for tracking and verifying information. This means businesses can operate with greater certainty, and consumers can have more trust in the products and services they use.

Streamlining Operations And Reducing Costs

When Internet of Things (IoT) devices can talk to each other and handle transactions without a central authority checking every step, a lot of the old ways of doing things become unnecessary. This is where blockchain really shines in making operations smoother and cutting down on expenses.

Automating Processes With Smart Contracts

Smart contracts are like digital agreements that automatically carry out their terms when certain conditions are met. Think of them as self-executing programs written directly into the blockchain. For IoT, this means tasks can be automated in ways that were previously impossible or very complicated.

For example, imagine a smart thermostat that detects a drop in temperature. It could automatically trigger a smart contract to order more heating fuel from a supplier, and once the fuel is delivered and confirmed by another IoT sensor, the contract automatically releases payment. This removes the need for manual order placement, invoice processing, and payment approvals, saving time and reducing the chance of human error.

• Automated Reordering: Devices can automatically order supplies when inventory levels get low.
• Scheduled Maintenance: IoT sensors can detect when equipment needs servicing and automatically schedule a maintenance appointment.
• Usage-Based Billing: Smart meters can record energy or water consumption, and smart contracts can automatically generate and process bills based on that data.

The ability of smart contracts to execute predefined actions based on real-world data from IoT devices creates a highly efficient and automated operational environment.

Eliminating Intermediaries For Efficiency

Traditionally, many business processes involve multiple intermediaries – banks, brokers, clearinghouses, and more. Each of these adds cost, complexity, and potential points of failure. Blockchain, by providing a secure and transparent distributed ledger, can often remove the need for these middlemen.

In a supply chain, for instance, instead of relying on multiple paper trails and third-party verifiers to confirm a shipment’s status, blockchain can provide a single, shared source of truth. When an IoT sensor confirms a package has arrived at its destination, that information is recorded on the blockchain, and a smart contract can automatically trigger the next step, like releasing payment or updating inventory records. This direct interaction between devices and smart contracts cuts out layers of administrative work.

Reducing Transaction Fees And Errors

Every time a transaction occurs through traditional systems, there are often fees associated with them. Whether it’s a bank transfer fee, a payment processing fee, or a fee for a verification service, these costs add up, especially for high-volume IoT networks. Blockchain transactions, while not entirely free, can significantly reduce these fees, particularly when using more efficient blockchain protocols.

Furthermore, the automation provided by smart contracts and the immutability of blockchain records drastically cut down on errors. Manual data entry, miscommunication between parties, and lost paperwork are common sources of costly mistakes in traditional systems. By having data recorded directly from IoT devices onto a blockchain and processed by smart contracts, the accuracy of operations improves, leading to fewer costly corrections and disputes.

Navigating The Future Of Blockchain For IoT

Emerging Trends And Predictions

The integration of blockchain and IoT is still relatively new, but the trajectory is clear: expect to see even more sophisticated applications emerge. One significant trend is the move towards more autonomous systems. Imagine IoT devices not just collecting data, but also using blockchain to securely transact and make decisions based on that data, all without human intervention. This could mean smart grids that automatically adjust energy distribution based on real-time demand and supply, or fleets of autonomous vehicles that manage their own maintenance schedules and refueling through smart contracts. We’re also seeing a growing focus on interoperability, with efforts to create common protocols and standards so different blockchain and IoT systems can communicate easily.

Overcoming Implementation Hurdles

While the potential is vast, integrating blockchain with existing IoT infrastructure presents challenges. Many IoT devices were built without blockchain in mind, meaning they might not have the capacity or the right software to communicate effectively with a blockchain network. This often requires updating hardware, rewriting software, or sometimes even replacing devices. It’s a significant undertaking, and finding ways to make this process smoother is key for wider adoption. Beyond technical challenges, there’s the matter of getting everyone on board – businesses, developers, and even regulators need to understand and trust the technology. Establishing clear legal frameworks for smart contracts and data ownership is also an ongoing process.

The Path To Widespread Adoption

To achieve widespread adoption, several key areas need focus. Developing lightweight blockchain protocols designed specifically for resource-constrained IoT devices is important. Creating standardized APIs would make it easier for existing IoT platforms to connect with blockchain networks. Improving interoperability, ensuring different blockchain solutions can work together and with various IoT devices, is also critical. Education and training are vital to help people understand how to use and manage these new systems. Furthermore, regulatory clarity from governments is needed to create clear rules and guidelines that support innovation while protecting users.

The journey of integrating blockchain with IoT is about building a more secure, transparent, and efficient digital future. It’s not just about connecting devices; it’s about creating a trusted ecosystem where data flows freely and securely, driving innovation and solving real-world problems.

Looking Ahead: The Road for Blockchain and IoT

So, we’ve seen how combining blockchain and IoT is really changing things. It’s not just about fancy tech; it’s about making systems more secure, more open, and just plain more efficient. From tracking goods in a supply chain to making sure your medical data is safe, this partnership is showing up everywhere. While there are still some hurdles to clear, like making sure the systems can handle tons of data and keeping everything private, the path forward looks pretty bright. As more businesses start to see the benefits, expect to see this technology pop up in more and more places, helping to build a more connected and trustworthy digital world for all of us.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Blockchain for IoT?

Think of the Internet of Things (IoT) as a bunch of devices, like smart lights or factory machines, that can connect and share information. Blockchain is like a super secure digital notebook that records everything these devices do. When you put them together, Blockchain for IoT creates a very safe and clear way to manage all the information from these connected devices, making it hard for anyone to cheat or hack the system.

How does combining blockchain and IoT make things more secure?

Normally, IoT devices might send information to one main computer, which could be a target for hackers. But with blockchain, the information is copied and spread across many computers. This makes it much, much harder for someone to sneak in and change or steal data because they’d have to break into many places at once.

Can you give an example of how this helps businesses?

Sure! Imagine tracking a package. With IoT sensors and blockchain, you can see exactly where the package is, if its temperature stayed right, and who handled it, all recorded on a digital list that can’t be changed. This helps stop fake products and makes sure customers get what they expect.

What are ‘smart contracts’ in this context?

Smart contracts are like automatic agreements written in computer code. For example, if a delivery truck arrives at its destination, a smart contract could automatically release payment to the driver. This makes tasks happen faster and without needing someone to manually check and approve things.

Does this technology help save money?

Yes, it often does! By making processes automatic with smart contracts and removing the need for middlemen to check every step, businesses can cut down on mistakes and save money on fees. It makes things run more smoothly and efficiently.

What are some challenges in using Blockchain for IoT?

One big challenge is making sure the system can handle the massive amount of information that all the IoT devices create. Another is keeping private information truly private, even though blockchain is very open. Developers are working on solutions to these issues so more people can use this technology.

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Hello, today I am going to review the HUSKYLENS 2, released in October 2025. It is the next generation of HUSKYLENS, an AI vision sensor equipped with a Kendryte K230 dual-core RISC-V SoC with a 6 TOPS AI accelerator and a 2.4-inch IPS touchscreen. The device runs machine vision algorithms fully on-device, providing fast and low-latency performance, and includes more than 15 built-in AI models. HUSKYLENS 2 also supports deploying custom-trained models, including integration with Large Language Models (LLMs) via a Model Context Protocol (MCP) service. In addition, it is compatible with various microcontrollers, such as Arduino and Raspberry Pi, through UART or I2C communication interfaces. HUSKYLENS 2 unboxing The manufacturer sent the HUSKYLENS 2 module and the Microscope Lens separately. Both parcels were shipped from Chengdu, China, and arrived at my office in Chanthaburi, Thailand, in about one week. The parcels were packed in standard cardboard boxes and arrived […]

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Read more here: https://www.cnx-software.com/2025/12/31/dfrobot-huskylens-2-ai-camera-review-from-built-in-ai-samples-to-training-a-custom-model-to-detect-elephants/

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Read more here: https://blog.apnic.net/2025/12/31/three-of-the-best-rpki-6/

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In today’s world, understanding information technology and communication, or ICT, is really important. It’s not just about the gadgets we use; it’s about how these tools change how we do things, how economies grow, and how we connect with each other. This article looks at the many ways ICT information technology communication plays a big part in everything around us.

Key Takeaways

• Information technology and communication (ICT) has grown from a niche tool to a widely used technology affecting many parts of business and life.
• While the benefits of ICT on productivity weren’t always clear (the productivity paradox), studies now show a strong link between using ICT and better business results.
• Investing in ICT can lead to better productivity and give businesses an edge, but success often depends on how well companies use it and adapt.
• The impact of ICT isn’t just about the technology itself; factors like how leaders view it and how well it works with other company resources play a big role.
• ICT is a major driver for economic growth, influencing overall economic performance not only in tech-making industries but also in those that use it.

Understanding Information Technology and Communication’s Role

Defining Information and Communication Technology

Information and Communication Technology, or ICT, is a term that covers a lot of ground. Think of it as the umbrella for all the tools and systems we use to handle information and talk to each other in the digital age. It’s not just about computers anymore; it includes everything from your smartphone and the internet to the networks that connect them, and even the software that makes it all work. Essentially, ICT is about making information accessible, manageable, and shareable.

The Evolution of ICT as a General Purpose Technology

ICT hasn’t always been the all-encompassing force it is today. It started out as more specialized tools, but over time, it has transformed into what experts call a “General Purpose Technology.” This means it’s a technology that has the potential to change entire industries and economies, not just one specific area. Initially, the impact of these technologies on how much work got done wasn’t immediately obvious – a puzzle sometimes called the “productivity paradox.” However, as ICT became more widespread and integrated into daily operations, its ability to drive significant changes became undeniable.

Why ICT Matters in Today’s World

In our current interconnected world, understanding ICT is pretty important. It’s the engine behind much of how we do business, how economies develop, and how we stay in touch with people near and far. It’s the backbone that supports everything from global commerce to personal communication.

• Connectivity: ICT provides the infrastructure for global communication, linking individuals and organizations across vast distances.
• Data Exchange: It allows for the rapid and efficient transfer of information between different systems and devices.
• Innovation: ICT is a catalyst for new ideas and digital services, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

The widespread adoption of ICT has fundamentally altered the landscape of modern society, influencing everything from economic structures to social interactions. Its continued evolution promises further transformations.

While the benefits of ICT were once debated, studies now clearly show a strong connection between its effective use and improved business outcomes. Investing in and properly implementing ICT can lead to significant gains in productivity and provide a competitive advantage. However, success often hinges on how well organizations adapt and integrate these technologies into their existing workflows and strategies.

The Core Components of ICT Systems

When we talk about Information and Communication Technology (ICT), it’s helpful to break down what actually makes it all work. Think of it like building something – you need different parts that fit together just right. ICT is no different. It’s built on a few key pieces that allow us to create, share, and use information.

Hardware and Software: The Foundation

At the base of any ICT system are the physical parts and the instructions that tell them what to do. Hardware includes all the tangible stuff you can see and touch: computers, servers that store lots of data, the routers that direct traffic, and even your smartphone or tablet. These are the machines that do the actual work.

Software, on the other hand, is the non-physical side. This is what makes the hardware useful. It includes operating systems like Windows or macOS that manage the computer, applications like word processors or web browsers that let you do specific tasks, and the complex programs that run behind the scenes to keep everything connected. Without software, hardware is just a collection of metal and plastic.

Networks and Communication Technologies

Once you have the hardware and software, you need a way for them to talk to each other, and to us. That’s where networks and communication technologies come in. Networks are the pathways that allow data to travel. This can be a Local Area Network (LAN) in an office, a Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) connection at home, or the vast global network we call the Internet.

Communication technologies are the tools and methods used to send and receive information over these networks. This includes things like:

• Email and Messaging: For sending text-based information.
• Voice over IP (VoIP): Allowing phone calls over the internet.
• Video Conferencing: For face-to-face meetings remotely.
• Mobile Networks: Like 4G and 5G, which connect our phones and other devices.

These components work together to make sure information gets from point A to point B, whether that’s across the room or across the world.

The Role of Data and Integration

All these components are ultimately there to handle data – the raw facts and figures that we turn into useful information. ICT systems need ways to store this data, manage it, and make sure it’s secure. This involves databases, cloud storage solutions, and systems for backing up information.

But it’s not just about storing data; it’s about making all the different parts work together. Integration is the process of connecting various hardware, software, and communication systems so they can share information and function as a single, cohesive unit. This means your email can link to your calendar, and your sales software can talk to your customer database. When everything is integrated well, ICT systems become much more powerful and efficient.

The true power of ICT lies not just in its individual parts, but in how they are combined. A powerful computer is useful, but it’s when it’s connected to a network, running smart software, and handling important data that it truly transforms how we work and live.

Think about how a simple smartphone combines hardware (screen, processor, camera), software (apps, operating system), networks (WiFi, cellular), and data (photos, contacts) to become an indispensable tool. That’s ICT in action, with all its core components working in harmony.

Driving Business Performance Through ICT

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has moved beyond being just a tool; it’s now a core component for businesses aiming to get more done. Think about how much faster tasks can be completed when information flows smoothly between teams or how quickly data can be analyzed to make better decisions. ICT’s ability to streamline operations and improve communication is a direct pathway to higher productivity. It allows for automation of repetitive tasks, freeing up employees to focus on more complex and valuable work. This shift means businesses can achieve more with the same resources, or even fewer.

Leveraging ICT for Enhanced Productivity

ICT helps businesses get more done by making operations smoother and communication better. Automating routine tasks, like data entry or scheduling, means employees can concentrate on more important work. Tools for instant messaging, video conferencing, and shared documents also allow teams to collaborate effectively, no matter where they are. Plus, quick access to information through databases and cloud storage cuts down on time spent searching.

• Automating Routine Tasks: Software can handle repetitive jobs, reducing manual effort.
• Improving Communication: Tools allow teams to collaborate effectively, regardless of location.
• Faster Information Access: Employees can find what they need quickly, cutting down search time.

Bridging the Productivity Paradox with ICT

For a while, there was a puzzle. People were investing in technology, but it wasn’t always showing up as a big jump in how much work was getting done. This was sometimes called the ‘productivity paradox.’ However, over the years, a lot of research has looked into this, and the picture has become clearer. Studies now consistently show that investing in ICT does make a real difference in how productive businesses are. It’s not always an instant effect, though; sometimes, it takes a little while for the benefits to really show up. The way businesses are set up and how people work within them plays a big role in how well technology actually helps get things done. It’s not just about the machines or software; it’s about how people and processes interact with them.

The effectiveness of ICT is not solely dependent on the technology itself, but also on the surrounding ecosystem of practices, skills, and related innovations. Without these supporting elements, the full potential of technological advancements may remain untapped, leading to suboptimal outcomes and missed opportunities for growth and efficiency.

The Pervasive Influence of ICT in Modern Business

ICT is now everywhere in business. Companies that don’t adopt and manage it well risk falling behind. It’s about strategically using technology to improve efficiency, reach new markets, and adapt to changing customer demands. A strategic approach means aligning ICT adoption with the company’s overall goals. This could involve using ICT to create new products or services, reach new markets, or improve customer service in ways competitors can’t easily match. For instance, a company might use advanced analytics to predict customer needs before they even arise, giving them a significant edge. This strategic use can lead to innovation, efficiency gains, better market responsiveness, and increased customer loyalty. The way a company integrates ICT into its daily functions and long-term plans is what truly separates successful adopters from those who merely possess the technology. This requires careful planning and a clear vision of how technology can solve business problems and create new opportunities, much like how connected automotive services are driving a significant economic transformation in the auto industry.

ICT in Action: Transforming Industries

Real-World Applications of ICT

Information and Communication Technology isn’t just a concept; it’s the engine driving significant changes across various sectors. We see its impact daily, often without even realizing it. Think about how you bank, learn, or even get around town – ICT is likely involved.

Here are a few ways ICT is making a difference:

• E-Learning: Students can now access educational materials and participate in classes from anywhere in the world. This breaks down geographical barriers and opens up learning opportunities for many who might not have had them before.
• Mobile Banking: Managing your finances has become incredibly simple. With banking apps, you can check balances, pay bills, and transfer money with just a few taps on your smartphone.
• Smart Cities: Urban areas are using ICT to manage resources more effectively. This includes optimizing traffic flow, managing energy consumption, and improving public services to make cities more efficient and livable.

The practical application of ICT is what truly demonstrates its power. It’s not just about the technology itself, but how it solves problems and creates new possibilities in our everyday lives.

ICT’s Impact on Business and Healthcare

In the business world, ICT has become indispensable. It allows companies to automate routine tasks, making operations smoother and faster. This means employees can focus on more complex work that requires human insight. Collaboration also gets a big boost; teams can work together on projects in real-time, no matter where they are located. This kind of efficiency can really help a business grow.

Healthcare has also seen a massive transformation thanks to ICT. Telemedicine allows doctors to consult with patients remotely, which is a huge help, especially for people in rural areas or those with mobility issues. Digital health records mean patient information is easily accessible and secure, leading to better-informed medical decisions. AI is even starting to help with diagnosing illnesses, making healthcare more accurate and timely.

Education and E-Government Powered by ICT

Education is another area where ICT is a game-changer. Virtual classrooms and online learning platforms provide access to a wider range of courses and educational resources. Digital libraries offer vast amounts of information at students’ fingertips. This technology helps make education more flexible and accessible to a broader audience.

Governments are also using ICT to improve how they serve citizens. E-government initiatives make it easier for people to access public services, pay taxes, and get information online. This not only saves time for citizens but also makes government operations more efficient. ICT is fundamentally changing how we interact with essential services and access information.

The Broader Societal Impact of ICT

Enabling Digital Inclusion and Connectivity

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has fundamentally reshaped how we connect and interact, moving beyond just business applications to touch nearly every aspect of daily life. Think about it: a few decades ago, staying in touch with someone across the country meant letters or expensive long-distance calls. Now, with a smartphone in hand, we can video chat with family on another continent or join a global online community discussing shared interests. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about bridging distances and making the world feel a lot smaller. The widespread availability of the internet and mobile devices has opened doors for billions, particularly in developing regions, to access information, education, and economic opportunities previously out of reach.

ICT as a Backbone for Modern Society

Beyond personal connections, ICT acts as the invisible infrastructure supporting much of our modern world. From managing city traffic and power grids to enabling remote work and online learning, its influence is pervasive. It’s the engine behind how governments operate, how healthcare is delivered through telehealth, and how scientific research is shared and advanced. Without these interconnected systems, many of the services we rely on daily would simply cease to function. The sheer volume of data generated and processed daily highlights how deeply integrated ICT has become.

Emerging Trends Shaping the Future of ICT

The evolution of ICT is far from over. We’re seeing exciting developments that promise to further transform society. Artificial intelligence is becoming more sophisticated, cloud computing continues to expand its reach, and the Internet of Things (IoT) is connecting everyday objects to the digital world. These advancements bring both incredible potential and new challenges, such as ensuring equitable access and addressing environmental concerns related to technology use. The ongoing research into how ICT affects small and medium-sized businesses, and the long-term societal shifts it causes, will be key to understanding its future trajectory.

The true power of ICT lies not just in the technology itself, but in how it’s integrated with human needs and societal structures. Innovations often require complementary developments, like new software or updated processes, to fully realize their benefits. This means that simply adopting new technology isn’t enough; we need to think about the entire ecosystem that supports it.

Distinguishing ICT from Information Technology

Defining Information Technology (IT)

Information Technology, or IT, is the part of the tech world that deals with computers. Think hardware like your laptop or a big server in an office, and software, which are the programs and apps that make those computers do things. IT also covers how we store and manage all the digital information those computers handle. It’s really about the tools and systems that process and keep data safe.

The Expanded Scope of ICT

Information and Communication Technology, or ICT, takes IT and adds a big layer on top: communication. It’s not just about the computers themselves, but how we use them to talk to each other and share information. This includes things like phones, the internet, mobile networks, and even older tech like radio and TV. ICT is interested in how all these pieces work together to send, receive, and make sense of information, whether it’s between people or between machines.

ICT: The Integration of Communication and Technology

So, what’s the main difference? ICT is essentially IT plus communication. While IT focuses on the technology itself, ICT looks at how that technology connects us. It’s about the whole system – the computers, the networks, the phones, the software, and how they all combine to allow for the flow of information. This integration is what makes things like video calls, instant messaging, and global data sharing possible.

Here’s a quick look at what each typically covers:

• Information Technology (IT):
  • Computer Hardware (desktops, laptops, servers)
  • Software Applications (operating systems, productivity tools)
  • Data Storage and Management
  • IT Support and Maintenance
• Information and Communication Technology (ICT):
  • All of IT’s components
  • Telecommunications (phone lines, mobile networks)
  • Internet and Networking Infrastructure
  • Audiovisual Communication Tools (video conferencing)
  • Wireless Technologies (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth)

Think of IT as the engine of a car, and ICT as the entire car, including the steering wheel, the radio, and the ability to drive it to different places and connect with others on the road. It’s the combination that truly drives progress and connection in our digital age.

This broader view of ICT acknowledges that technology isn’t just about processing data in isolation; it’s about using that processing power to connect, collaborate, and communicate across vast distances.

Looking Ahead: The Ever-Evolving World of ICT

So, we’ve covered a lot about how information and communication technology, or ICT, really shapes our world today. It’s not just about computers and phones anymore; it’s about how we connect, how we work, and even how we learn. From making businesses run smoother to helping us access information instantly, ICT is pretty much everywhere. While it’s changed a lot over the years, it’s clear that ICT will keep evolving, and we’ll all need to keep up. Understanding how it works and how to use it well is becoming more and more important for everyone, no matter what you do. It’s a tool that’s here to stay, and it’s going to keep changing things for a long time to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is ICT and why is it so important today?

ICT stands for Information and Communication Technology. Think of it as all the tools and systems we use to share information, like computers, the internet, and phones. It’s super important now because it helps businesses work faster, connect with people all over the world, and create new and exciting products and services. It’s like the engine that powers much of our modern world.

Did ICT always help businesses be more productive?

For a while, people wondered if spending money on computers and technology actually made businesses more productive. It was a bit of a puzzle! But over time, studies have shown that when used the right way, ICT really does boost how much work gets done.

What’s the main difference between IT and ICT?

IT, or Information Technology, is mainly about managing computer systems and data. ICT, on the other hand, includes IT but also adds communication tools like phones and the internet. So, ICT is a broader term that covers how we use technology to communicate and share information.

Can you give an example of ICT in action?

Sure! Think about online learning, where students can take classes from anywhere using computers and the internet. Another example is mobile banking, where you can manage your money using apps on your phone. These are all ways ICT makes things easier and more accessible.

How does ICT help connect people?

ICT connects people through tools like the internet, email, and social media. It allows us to talk to friends and family far away, work with colleagues in different cities, and share ideas instantly. This makes the world feel smaller and more connected.

What are some new trends in ICT?

Some exciting new trends include Artificial Intelligence (AI), which makes technology smarter, and 5G, which is a much faster type of internet connection. These advancements are making our technology even more powerful and useful.

The post Understanding ICT: The Power of Information Technology and Communication appeared first on IntelligentHQ.

Read more here: https://www.intelligenthq.com/ict-information-technology-communication-4/

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Read more here: https://blog.apnic.net/2025/12/30/three-of-the-best-ipv6-9/

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KrebsOnSecurity.com celebrates its 16th anniversary today! A huge “thank you” to all of our readers — newcomers, long-timers and drive-by critics alike. Your engagement this past year here has been tremendous and truly a salve on a handful of dark days. Happily, comeuppance was a strong theme running through our coverage in 2025, with a primary focus on entities that enabled complex and globally-dispersed cybercrime services.

Image: Shutterstock, Younes Stiller Kraske.

In May 2024, we scrutinized the history and ownership of Stark Industries Solutions Ltd., a “bulletproof hosting” provider that came online just two weeks before Russia invaded Ukraine and served as a primary staging ground for repeated Kremlin cyberattacks and disinformation efforts. A year later, Stark and its two co-owners were sanctioned by the European Union, but our analysis showed those penalties have done little to stop the Stark proprietors from rebranding and transferring considerable network assets to other entities they control.

In December 2024, KrebsOnSecurity profiled Cryptomus, a financial firm registered in Canada that emerged as the payment processor of choice for dozens of Russian cryptocurrency exchanges and websites hawking cybercrime services aimed at Russian-speaking customers. In October 2025, Canadian financial regulators ruled that Cryptomus had grossly violated its anti-money laundering laws, and levied a record $176 million fine against the platform.

In September 2023, KrebsOnSecurity published findings from researchers who concluded that a series of six-figure cyberheists across dozens of victims resulted from thieves cracking master passwords stolen from the password manager service LastPass in 2022. In a court filing in March 2025, U.S. federal agents investigating a spectacular $150 million cryptocurrency heist said they had reached the same conclusion.

Phishing was a major theme of this year’s coverage, which peered inside the day-to-day operations of several voice phishing gangs that routinely carried out elaborate, convincing, and financially devastating cryptocurrency thefts. A Day in the Life of a Prolific Voice Phishing Crew examined how one cybercrime gang routinely abused legitimate services at Apple and Google to force a variety of outbound communications to their users, including emails, automated phone calls and system-level messages sent to all signed-in devices.

Nearly a half-dozen stories in 2025 dissected the incessant SMS phishing or “smishing” coming from China-based phishing kit vendors, who make it easy for customers to convert phished payment card data into mobile wallets from Apple and Google.

In January, we highlighted research into a dodgy and sprawling content delivery network called Funnull that specialized in helping China-based gambling and money laundering websites distribute their operations across multiple U.S.-based cloud providers. Five months later, the U.S. government sanctioned Funnull, identifying it as a top source of investment/romance scams known as “pig butchering.”

Image: Shutterstock, ArtHead.

In May, Pakistan arrested 21 people alleged to be working for Heartsender, a phishing and malware dissemination service that KrebsOnSecurity first profiled back in 2015. The arrests came shortly after the FBI and the Dutch police seized dozens of servers and domains for the group. Many of those arrested were first publicly identified in a 2021 story here about how they’d inadvertently infected their computers with malware that gave away their real-life identities.

In April, the U.S. Department of Justice indicted the proprietors of a Pakistan-based e-commerce company for conspiring to distribute synthetic opioids in the United States. The following month, KrebsOnSecurity detailed how the proprietors of the sanctioned entity are perhaps better known for operating an elaborate and lengthy scheme to scam westerners seeking help with trademarks, book writing, mobile app development and logo designs.

Earlier this month, we examined an academic cheating empire turbocharged by Google Ads that earned tens of millions of dollars in revenue and has curious ties to a Kremlin-connected oligarch whose Russian university builds drones for Russia’s war against Ukraine.

An attack drone advertised the website hosted on the same network as Russia’s largest private education company — Synergy University.

As ever, KrebsOnSecurity endeavored to keep close tabs on the world’s biggest and most disruptive botnets, which pummeled the Internet this year with distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) assaults that were two to three times the size and impact of previous record DDoS attacks.

In June, KrebsOnSecurity.com was hit by the largest DDoS attack that Google had ever mitigated at the time (we are a grateful guest of Google’s excellent Project Shield offering). Experts blamed that attack on an Internet-of-Things botnet called Aisuru that had rapidly grown in size and firepower since its debut in late 2024. Another Aisuru attack on Cloudflare just days later practically doubled the size of the June attack against this website. Not long after that, Aisuru was blamed for a DDoS that again doubled the previous record.

In October, it appeared the cybercriminals in control of Aisuru had shifted the botnet’s focus from DDoS to a more sustainable and profitable use: Renting hundreds of thousands of infected Internet of Things (IoT) devices to proxy services that help cybercriminals anonymize their traffic.

However, it has recently become clear that at least some of the disruptive botnet and residential proxy activity attributed to Aisuru last year likely was the work of people responsible for building and testing a powerful botnet known as Kimwolf. Chinese security firm XLab, which was the first to chronicle Aisuru’s rise in 2024, recently profiled Kimwolf as easily the world’s biggest and most dangerous collection of compromised machines — with approximately 1.83 million devices under its thumb as of December 17.

XLab noted that the Kimwolf author “shows an almost ‘obsessive’ fixation on the well-known cybersecurity investigative journalist Brian Krebs, leaving easter eggs related to him in multiple places.”

Image: XLab, Kimwolf Botnet Exposed: The Massive Android Botnet with 1.8 million infected devices.

I am happy to report that the first KrebsOnSecurity stories of 2026 will go deep into the origins of Kimwolf, and examine the botnet’s unique and highly invasive means of spreading digital disease far and wide. The first in that series will include a somewhat sobering and global security notification concerning the devices and residential proxy services that are inadvertently helping to power Kimwolf’s rapid growth.

Thank you once again for your continued readership, encouragement and support. If you like the content we publish at KrebsOnSecurity.com, please consider making an exception for our domain in your ad blocker. The ads we run are limited to a handful of static images that are all served in-house and vetted by me (there is no third-party content on this site, period). Doing so would help further support the work you see here almost every week.

And if you haven’t done so yet, sign up for our email newsletter! (62,000 other subscribers can’t be wrong, right?). The newsletter is just a plain text email that goes out the moment a new story is published. We send between one and two emails a week, we never share our email list, and we don’t run surveys or promotions.

Thanks again, and Happy New Year everyone! Be safe out there.

Read more here: https://krebsonsecurity.com/2025/12/happy-16th-birthday-krebsonsecurity-com/

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Overview of Leading Software Solutions

With a wide range of tools available, selecting the right endpoint management software requires evaluating scalability, security depth, automation, and compatibility with existing IT ecosystems. Below are ten widely recognized endpoint management software solutions, starting with enterprise-grade platforms designed for large, complex environments.

1. HCL BigFix

HCL BigFix is an enterprise-grade endpoint management platform built to manage and secure large, heterogeneous endpoint environments at scale. It provides real-time visibility, automated patching, and configuration enforcement across Windows, macOS, Linux, and other operating systems.

HCL BigFix is particularly valued for its ability to maintain consistency across distributed environments while reducing operational downtime and patching delays.

Best for: Large enterprises with complex, cross-platform endpoint environments

2. Microsoft Intune

Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based unified endpoint management solution tightly integrated with the Microsoft ecosystem. It supports mobile device management (MDM) and mobile application management (MAM) for both corporate-owned and BYOD devices.

Best for: Organizations heavily invested in Microsoft 365 and Azure Active Directory

3. VMware Workspace ONE

Workspace ONE combines endpoint management with identity and access controls. It centralizes device management across platforms and offers strong automation, policy enforcement, and conditional access capabilities.

Best for: Enterprises managing diverse device types and identity-driven access models

4. IBM Security MaaS360 with Watson

IBM MaaS360 leverages AI-driven analytics through Watson to manage and secure endpoints across mobile, desktop, and IoT devices. It offers strong compliance monitoring and contextual risk insights.

Best for: Organizations seeking AI-assisted endpoint visibility and compliance management

5. Symantec Endpoint Management (Broadcom)

Symantec provides a comprehensive endpoint management and protection suite, including vulnerability assessment, automated remediation, and data loss prevention.

Best for: Enterprises requiring deep endpoint security and threat prevention capabilities

6. ManageEngine Endpoint Central

ManageEngine Endpoint Central (formerly Desktop Central) offers patch management, asset management, remote troubleshooting, and mobile device management in a single platform.

Best for: Small to mid-sized enterprises seeking cost-effective, all-in-one endpoint control

7. CrowdStrike Falcon

CrowdStrike Falcon is best known for endpoint protection, but it also includes endpoint management capabilities through modular add-ons. It excels in real-time threat detection and response.

Best for: Security-first organizations prioritizing advanced threat intelligence

8. Sophos Endpoint Management

Sophos provides synchronized security across endpoints, servers, and networks, with strong ransomware and exploit prevention features.

Best for: Organizations looking for tightly integrated endpoint and network security

9. Ivanti Endpoint Manager

Ivanti focuses on unifying IT operations and security by automating device provisioning, patching, and compliance enforcement across diverse environments.

Best for: IT teams seeking to bridge endpoint management and IT service management

10. Citrix Endpoint Management

Citrix Endpoint Management delivers unified control over mobile devices, applications, and desktops, particularly in Citrix-centric virtual environments.

Best for: Organizations already leveraging Citrix infrastructure

Comparative Features and Pricing

When comparing endpoint management solutions, IT leaders should evaluate:

• Platform coverage: Support for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and virtual endpoints
• Integration: Compatibility with identity platforms, SIEM tools, and security stacks
• Automation: Patch deployment, remediation, and policy enforcement
• AI and analytics: Risk scoring, anomaly detection, and predictive insights
• Pricing: Subscription-based models that scale by device count and feature set

Costs vary significantly depending on scale and requirements, making direct vendor evaluation essential.

Key Features to Consider in Endpoint Software

Security and Compliance Management

Strong endpoint management platforms provide integrated security controls such as malware protection, vulnerability scanning, automated patching, and compliance reporting. These capabilities help organizations meet regulatory requirements like GDPR, HIPAA, and CCPA while reducing exposure to breaches.

Administrative Ease and User Experience

Effective endpoint management must balance control with usability. Important considerations include centralized dashboards, remote management capabilities, scalability, and minimal disruption to end users during updates or remediation.

The Role of Endpoint Security in Modern IT Environments

Integration With Existing Systems

Modern IT environments span on-premises infrastructure, cloud services, and hybrid deployments. Endpoint management tools must integrate smoothly with identity management, security monitoring, and IT operations platforms to provide a unified operational view.

Impact of Remote Work on Security Requirements

Remote and hybrid work models demand robust endpoint controls, including secure onboarding, encrypted access, and automated patching. Solutions like MaaS360 and Ivanti are commonly adopted to manage geographically distributed endpoints without compromising compliance or visibility.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Summary of the Findings

Choosing the right endpoint management software depends on organizational scale, device diversity, security requirements, and operational maturity. Enterprise platforms such as HCL BigFix, Microsoft Intune, and VMware Workspace ONE provide deep visibility and automation, while other tools address specific security or mid-market needs.

Final Thoughts

Endpoint environments will only continue to grow in scale and complexity. Organizations that invest in structured, scalable Endpoint Management solutions are better positioned to protect their digital assets, maintain compliance, and ensure reliable operations in an increasingly remote-enabled world.

The post Top Endpoint Management Solutions appeared first on IntelligentHQ.

Read more here: https://www.intelligenthq.com/top-endpoint-management-solutions/

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Designed by Ruictec in China, the TD04 is a LoRa-based low-power tracker that also features BLE and dual-band GNSS. It supports both indoor and outdoor positioning, and is suitable for fleet management, asset tracking, and geofencing over public or private LoRaWAN networks with minimal maintenance. The device combines GNSS (L1/L5) for outdoor positioning with BLE-based indoor tracking. It automatically switches between the two to optimize accuracy and power usage, delivering around 1–2 m accuracy outdoors and 2–4 m indoors. It is LoRaWAN 1.0.3-compliant, supports OTAA and ABP, and operates across multiple regional bands (EU868, US915, IN865, AS923, and others). Other features include a built-in motion sensor (G-sensor), configurable reporting and heartbeat intervals, iBeacon support, optional Bluetooth gateway mode, BLE-based configuration, OTA updates, and batch firmware upgrades. The device is powered by a 6000 mAh rechargeable battery and support 1.3 W solar panel input, enabling up to six months of standby […]

The post Ruictec TD04 low-maintance LoRa, BLE, and GNSS vehicle tracker supports open-source software, solar charging appeared first on CNX Software – Embedded Systems News.

Read more here: https://www.cnx-software.com/2025/12/29/ruictec-td04-low-maintance-lora-ble-and-gnss-vehicle-tracker-supports-open-source-software-solar-charging/

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Every millennial knows the exhilarating feeling of going to the computer lab, booting up a Macintosh, and creating beautiful art in MacPaint. The nostalgia meter has broken its dial and is now spinning wildly. If you want to capture that nostalgia in a form suitable for home décor, you can build Mark Wilson’s fantastic LackPaint to display your photos like they’re in MacPaint.

LackPaint is basically a digital photo frame. Except instead of showing boring old family photos in the usual way, it displays them as heavily dithered grayscale images with a MacPaint software border. What you lose in fidelity, you gain in unfettered vintage vibes.

The frame’s enclosure is 3D-printable and building LackPaint only requires two components: an Arduino UNO Rev3 board and a 480×320 LCD shield with microSD card slot. Put the shield on the Arduino and connect a USB cable for power and you’re ready to go.

The Arduino can’t store “normal” photos, so Wilson programmed a Python utility that will convert .jpg images into the proper format and style. Those can then go on the microSD card for LackPaint to read and display.

This is a quick project that you can complete on a Sunday afternoon and it will definitely get attention from anyone who was in elementary school in the ‘80s or ‘90s. 

The post Display your photos like they’re in MacPaint appeared first on Arduino Blog.

Read more here: https://blog.arduino.cc/2025/12/28/display-your-photos-like-theyre-in-macpaint/

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