ITEC FPX 5030 Assessment 4 Lab Experience Summary: IoT Home Device Network ITEC-FPX5030 Emerging Technologies

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Executive Summary

This paper presents a summary of the experience during the Cisco Packet Tracer Lab titled “IoT Introduction: Basic Home Setup.” It also reflects on the four constructs of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) in relation to the lab.

Lab Experience Summary: IoT Home Device Network

An IoT (Internet of Things) network is composed of interconnected devices that can communicate with each other without the need for human interaction. Examples include self-driving cars, wearable technologies, and smart appliances (Craven, 2019).

Performance Expectancy

The performance expectancy for this virtual lab exceeded initial expectations. Initially, the process of creating an IoT network was thought to be complex, involving extensive coding and algorithms. However, the process of setting up Internet Service Providers (ISPs) for the devices was surprisingly simple. Before this lab, the requirements for connecting three devices were not entirely clear. Beyond using fiber cords, the entire connection process ran smoothly without any errors.

Effort Expectancy

At first glance, setting up an IoT network (IPv4 Infrastructure) may seem challenging. However, for those with experience in diagramming or network setup, the process is manageable. Even those without an IT background can complete the task by following step-by-step instructions. It is, however, not advisable for someone to approach this task without some foundational knowledge. As Eugenio (2017) explains, “By connecting smart devices that otherwise would not operate together, entrepreneurs are making tech more user-friendly for people without a substantial IoT background.” Watching the accompanying video tutorial before starting the lab was helpful, especially for visual and hands-on learners. The video provided clear and easy-to-follow steps, enhancing the learning process for configuring the devices.

Social Influence

The ability to set up and diagram networks is a skill highly valued by senior leadership and managers, particularly when hiring or promoting employees. Individuals who can handle network tasks independently are often set apart from those who require assistance from IT departments. This user believes that with encouragement from leadership, learning networking skills would benefit everyone.

Facilitating Conditions

In a virtual lab, successfully setting up an IoT network requires familiarity with software such as Cisco and access to an internet connection. In a real-life scenario, the essential devices would include a motion detector, webcam, registration server, switch, appropriate cables, and an internet connection. Firewalls are also necessary to prevent security breaches and attacks from hackers. Interoperability between devices is critical because, without it, data transmission would fail (Noura et al., 2018). In a home setting, an individual might require a helpline or chat support, while in a workplace, support from the IT department would be essential. In both cases, a support network fosters trust and ease of use.

Conclusions

This virtual lab experience demonstrates that it is possible to replicate the process in real-life situations. The lab was user-friendly with adequate guidance, making the adoption of such a network setup feasible for both home and workplace environments. While instructions may still be needed in cases of technical glitches, the lab has provided a solid foundation for understanding network configuration. However, more labs on other emerging technologies are necessary to deepen the overall understanding of this field.

References

Craven, C. (2019, December 23). What is an IoT Network? Sdxcentral. Retrieved May 9, 2021, from https://www.sdxcentral.com/5g/iot/definitions/iotnetwork/#:~:text=An%20IoT%20network%20refers%20to,smart%20appliances%2C%20and%20wearable%20tech.

Eugenio, S. (2017, August 13). 3 Ways Entrepreneurs Are Making IoT More User-Friendly. Entrepreneur. Retrieved May 9, 2021, from https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/292415.

Noura, M., Atiquzzaman, M., & Gaedke, M. (2018). Interoperability in Internet of Things: Taxonomies and Open Challenges. Mobile Networks and Applications, 24(3), 796-809. Retrieved May 9, 2021, from https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11036-018-1089-9.