IoT devices typically send data to cloud servers and can be controlled remotely via app.
Scale: billions of IoT devices worldwide — growing rapidly.
IoT advantages and concerns
Advantages: automation (heating adjusts automatically), remote monitoring and control, energy efficiency, convenience, data collection for analysis.
Security concerns: many IoT devices have weak/default passwords, infrequent software updates, large attack surface (billions of devices).
Privacy concerns: constant data collection (location, behaviour, usage patterns) sent to manufacturers.
Reliability: dependence on internet connectivity; if cloud service goes down, devices may stop working.
Botnet risk: compromised IoT devices can be used to launch DDoS attacks.
Exam practice — 5 questions · 12 marks · 1CP2 Paper 1 style
⚡ Write your pseudocode or answer — the AI marks against the Edexcel 1CP2 Paper 1 mark scheme.
1 markEmbedded system definition1CP2 Paper 2
Which of the following best describes an embedded system?
A A general-purpose computer that has been installed inside another device
B A dedicated computer system built into a larger device to perform a specific fixed function
C Any device that connects to the internet
D A virtual computer running inside another operating system
3 marksCharacteristics of embedded systems1CP2 Paper 2
Give THREE characteristics of embedded systems that distinguish them from general-purpose computers. (3 marks)
Hint: Think about what makes embedded systems different: what they do (one function), their resources (limited), their power, their software (firmware in ROM).
+30 XP
3 marksIoT security concern1CP2 Paper 2
Explain TWO security risks associated with the growth of Internet of Things devices. (4 marks)
Hint: Two risks with explanation of why they arise and what harm they cause. Think about: weak security, no updates, attack surface, privacy.
+30 XP
1 markIoT example1CP2 Paper 2
Which of the following is an example of an IoT device?
A A USB flash drive
B A laptop with WiFi
C A smart thermostat that learns usage patterns and can be controlled via a smartphone app
D A calculator
1 markFirmware definition1CP2 Paper 2
What is firmware?
A Software that the user installs to add features to a device
B Fixed software stored in ROM within an embedded system that controls its basic operation
C Temporary software loaded into RAM when the device starts
D Software used to compress files on storage devices