The technological revolution we have witnessed in the past few years has transformed our experiences and processes in more ways than one. Be it the impact of Virtual Reality (VR) technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, the Internet of Things (IoT), and other impressive technological feats, the way we function today is significantly different now than ever before.
One technology that stands out and has substantially impacted the technology disruption we are now witnessing is called the blockchain. Blockchain is a continuously growing list of immutable and secured records using cryptography, making each block unique and providing detailed information like a timestamp and transaction data.
Owing to this groundbreaking ability, blockchain is poised to impact the future of the way we store and access information. But how can blockchain and IOT (devices connected with sensors to communicate with other devices using network or WiFi) create a data marketplace that can truly revolutionize the future? Let's find out.
A blockchain-based data marketplace is a platform that allows users to buy and sell data using blockchain technology. The platform is typically built on top of a decentralized, distributed ledger that will enable data to be securely stored and tracked.
In a blockchain-based data marketplace, data is organized into distinct units called "blocks," which are linked together in a chain. Each block contains a record of data transactions that have taken place on the platform, along with a unique code called a "hash" that identifies the block and verifies its authenticity.
One of the key benefits of a blockchain-based data marketplace is that it allows for secure and transparent data transactions. Since the data is stored on a decentralized ledger, it is difficult for any individual or entity to manipulate or alter it. This makes it a reliable and trustworthy platform for buying and selling data.
Having a shared, blockchain-based IoT data marketplace has clear benefits in terms of technical, economic, and improved user experiences. Here is a quick look at each of these segments.
Now that we have covered the benefits of blockchain-based IoT data marketplaces, let us look at a few avenues where this technology platform can add value to the industry:
IoT data marketplaces can be implemented as a smart contract for facilitating a transparent data collection and sharing environment.
Using decentralized applications deployed as part of the blockchain, IoT manufacturers can develop and maintain actual data backend, with all contacts, consumer information, and consented data sharing being part of the provided services.
IoT device manufacturers can use blockchain data marketplaces to create a transparent and safe validation and feedback system, making it trusted, immutable, and not susceptible to any interference or alterations.
IoT manufacturers and companies can use open APIs published directly from their systems onto the blockchain data marketplace based on permission-based access, improving supply chain transparency.
In addition, the platform can make transactions that are automatically settled through intelligent contracts and facilitate trusted data exchange.
Remote condition monitoring involves using sensors and other monitoring devices to collect data from equipment or systems remotely, allowing for real-time monitoring of their condition and performance.
This data is typically used to detect and predict problems and to optimize maintenance schedules to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Remote condition monitoring can use the IoT blockchain marketplace for smart contracts, payments, and transparent proposals.
A trusted IoT marketplace allows IoT applications of different manufacturers and devices to share sensor readings in a secure and immutable platform.
This creates a safe platform for registration, integration, and payment services, enabling the metadata for sensors that are stored on the blockchain.
A blockchain-based IoT data marketplace for smart cities is a platform that uses blockchain technology to facilitate the buying and selling of data collected from connected devices in smart cities.
In such a data marketplace, data from connected devices (such as sensors, smart streetlights, and traffic management systems) is often organized into distinct units called "blocks," which are linked together in a chain.
This allows the data to be stored in a decentralized ledger and be used for practical purposes to make more informed decisions, help citizens in times of duress, and improve the response to emergency situations.
In summary, a blockchain-based IoT marketplace can provide users with a secure and efficient way to access and share data from connected devices. By using smart contracts and other blockchain-based tools, data can be easily shared and tracked, making it easier for users to access the data they need and for data providers to get compensated for their contributions. Plus, it creates a highly safe ecosystem for data sharing, meaning customer data is accessible only to the right stakeholders and is not easy to manipulate or alter in any way.