606  Networking Basics for IoT

606.1 Overview

Networking is the foundation of IoT. Without connectivity, you have isolated devices instead of the β€œInternet of Things.” This chapter series covers fundamental networking concepts essential for every IoT developer, from understanding the OSI model to configuring real devices.

NoteChapter Series Structure

This topic has been organized into seven focused chapters for easier learning:

Core Learning:

  1. Introduction and Core Concepts - Network fundamentals, OSI/TCP-IP layers, IP addressing, network types
  2. Protocols and MAC Classification - Common IoT protocols by layer, MAC protocol taxonomy, protocol selection
  3. Hands-On Configuration - ESP32 configuration, port numbers, troubleshooting, security, bandwidth/latency
  4. Labs and Practice - Interactive labs, Python tools, hands-on exercises

Assessment and Reference:

  1. Assessment Overview - Assessment and reference index
  2. Knowledge Check - 10 self-assessment questions with detailed answers
  3. Reference and Glossary - Comprehensive MCQ quiz, terminology glossary, protocol tables

Estimated total time: 120-150 minutes

606.2 Learning Path

606.2.1 Start Here: Introduction

Begin with Networking Basics: Introduction to learn:

  • How network layers organize communication
  • IPv4 vs IPv6 addressing and why IPv6 matters for IoT
  • Common IoT network types (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, LoRaWAN)
  • Real-world example: How a smart thermostat sends data

606.2.2 Understand Protocols: MAC Classification

Continue to Networking Basics: Protocols and MAC to learn:

  • Application, Network, and Data Link layer protocols
  • Contention-based vs contention-free MAC protocols
  • How to select the right MAC protocol for your use case
  • Energy impact of protocol choices on battery life

606.2.3 Get Hands-On: Configuration and Troubleshooting

Move to Networking Basics: Hands-On Configuration to learn:

  • ESP32 Wi-Fi configuration code
  • Port numbers for MQTT, CoAP, HTTP and other IoT protocols
  • Layer-by-layer troubleshooting methodology
  • Essential security practices for IoT networks
  • Bandwidth and latency optimization strategies

606.2.4 Practice: Labs

Continue with Networking Basics: Labs and Practice to:

  • Build an ESP32 network diagnostics dashboard
  • Create a Python network scanner for IoT devices
  • Practice with hands-on coding exercises

606.2.5 Assess and Reference

Complete your learning with the Assessment and Reference section:

606.3 Key Topics Covered

Topic Chapter Description
OSI/TCP-IP Models Introduction 7-layer framework vs 4-layer practical model
IP Addressing Introduction IPv4, IPv6, NAT, DHCP
Network Types Introduction Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, LoRaWAN comparison
Protocol Layers Protocols Application, Network, Data Link protocols
MAC Classification Protocols ALOHA, CSMA, TDMA, FDMA, Polling
ESP32 Configuration Hands-On Wi-Fi setup, diagnostics code
Port Numbers Hands-On MQTT (1883), CoAP (5683), HTTP (80)
Troubleshooting Hands-On Layer-by-layer diagnostic approach
Security Hands-On TLS, credentials, segmentation
Practical Labs Labs ESP32 and Python hands-on exercises
Knowledge Check Knowledge Check 10 questions with detailed answers
MCQ Quiz Reference Advanced scenario-based questions
Glossary Reference 30+ networking terms with examples

606.4 Prerequisites

Before starting this chapter series, you should be familiar with:

  • Layered Network Models: Understanding the OSI and TCP/IP models
  • Basic programming: Familiarity with C/C++ (for ESP32) or Python
  • General IoT concepts: Basic understanding of what IoT devices are

606.6 Quick Start

Ready to begin? Start with the first chapter:

Begin: Networking Basics Introduction