IoT Protocols

CoAP is the HTTP of the IoT world — same REST semantics, fraction of the overhead. Used in NB-IoT NIDD, LwM2M device management, and any embedded system where TCP overhead is prohibitive.

MQTT is the dominant IoT messaging protocol. AWS IoT Core, Azure IoT Hub, Google Cloud IoT, HiveMQ, and Mosquitto all speak MQTT. Understanding QoS levels (0/1/2), retained messages, and LWT (Last Will and Testament) is essential for any IoT backend.

Matter is the end-state for smart home interoperability. Any connected home product launched today needs Matter support. Understanding commissioning, fabric topology, and the data model is essential for IoT product developers.

LwM2M is the SNMP of IoT: the standard way to provision, monitor, and update IoT devices at scale. Used by major LPWA module vendors (Sierra Wireless, Telit, u-blox) for carrier-managed device lifecycle.

Zigbee is installed in hundreds of millions of devices. Smart lighting (Hue, IKEA Trådfri), home hubs (SmartThings, Home Assistant), and building automation all use it. Understanding ZCL clusters and coordinator setup is required for integrations.

LoRaWAN is the leading non-cellular LPWA technology for agriculture, smart cities, asset tracking, and utility metering. The Things Network provides global coverage. Understanding OTAA, ADR, and downlink duty cycle is essential for LoRaWAN application design.

Thread is the networking layer under Matter — when you see Matter over Thread, Thread is doing the mesh networking. Understanding the border router, DTLS commissioning, and leader/router/end-device roles is required for Matter deployments.

Z-Wave is strong in smart locks, sensors, and dimmers — especially from legacy vendors. Integration with Home Assistant, SmartThings, or Z-Wave JS requires understanding mesh inclusion and command classes.