# Internet of Things and Distributed Computing Systems in Business Models
## 4 Theoretical Framework
### Internet of Things  
IoT is about linking devices that interplay one to another mainly through the internet. The history of this innovation dates back to 1999 and was due to [PERSON]. He deemed it as \"uniquely identifiable interoperable connected objects with radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology\" [14] (p. 243). Nevertheless, this classification has continued to change as researchers and scientists strive to understand the concept and the innovations involved. For example, [PERSON] et al. [15] (p. 7) depict it as \"scenarios in which Internet connectivity and computing capability extend to a variety of objects, devices, sensors, and everyday items\". [PERSON] et al. [14] (p. 243-244) found that it is also defined as a \"dynamic global network infrastructure with self-configuring capabilities based on standards and interoperable communication protocols; physical and virtual 'things' in an IoT have identities and attributes and are capable of using intelligent interfaces and being integrated as an information network\". Despite the different wording, these definitions all converge on the core idea that IoT encompasses a huge system of linked devices that interplay both with one another and with the environment, driven by advanced technologies and protocols to enhance automation, efficiency, and data exchange. Figure 8 shows the significant evolution of IoT and enabling technologies.  
IoT devices are often equipped with technology (e.g., sensors) that allows connecting to other devices and systems. The primary objective of IoT is to enable seamless connectivity and data exchange between objects, creating a smart environment where devices can autonomously make decisions or provide insights based on the data collected [16; 17]. IoT comprehends varying devices, from daily products like smart thermostats and wearable fitness trackers to complex industrial systems such as smart manufacturing equipment  
Figure 8: IoT evolution since 1999 [14].  
and automated supply chains [18]. Each IoT device typically includes sensors that monitor environmental conditions or user interactions, processors that handle data processing, and communication nodes that allow data broadcast. The data gathered by these machines can include information on temperature, humidity, location, motion, and other variables relevant to their function.  
The core of IoT lies in its ability to create a connected ecosystem where devices can work together to enhance functionality and efficiency. For example, IoT gadgets such as smart lighting machines, thermostats, and protection cameras may be interconnected in a smart home environment to provide a cohesive user experience [19]. These devices can be programmed to operate based on user preferences or environmental conditions, such as adjusting the thermostat when a user leaves the house or turning on lights as dusk approaches. In industrial settings, IoT enables advanced monitoring and automation by integrating sensors and devices within machinery and infrastructure [20; 21]. This can significantly improve operational efficiency, predictive maintenance, and real-time analytics. For instance, sensors incorporated into manufacturing devices could keep up with performance data whilst identifying errors, enabling on-time rectification and mitigating the risk of failures [22]. This wide application of IoT innovations in multiple settings is projected to contribute significantly to global economic growth. For example, [PERSON] et al. [15] posit that the global economic impact of IoT will reach USD 11 trillion by 2025, with more than 100 billion connected IoT gadgets. This shows the innovation's massive potential and continued growth. Furthermore, its integration with DCS combines the power of those interconnected smart devices with scalable computing resources, enabling effective data processing in terms of replication, real-time processing, and efficiency, sustaining advanced applications across varying industries [17], as developed in Section 4.3.