IoT architecture and security challenges
M Rohith Reddy, Shrikrishna S Chippalkatti, Mohammed Misbahuddin, S D Sudarsan · 2026
The rapid proliferation of the Internet of Things is transforming various industry sectors by linking devices and streamlining processes through automation. However, this huge increase in connectivity brings significant challenges, especially in terms of network design and security in IoT. This chapter, “IoT Architecture and Security Challenges,” presents a comprehensive study of these critical issues. The network architecture of IoT explores the foundational design principles of IoT networks. It outlines the essential components of IoT systems, including communication protocols, device connectivity, and data management and provides insights on IoT network architecture across different layers of the IoT stack. This highlights how these components work together to facilitate seamless communications and system functionality. Detailed analysis of IoT systems components and their vulnerabilities provides a thorough analysis of the various components within IoT systems, such as sensors, actuators, devices, and communication interfaces. It identifies and analyses the inherent vulnerabilities associated with each component, from hardware to software entities, and explores how these vulnerabilities can be exploited, potentially compromising the system’s integrity and performance. Common threats and attack vectors in IoT networks address the prevalent security threats and attack vectors that target IoT networks. This categorizes and describes various attack methods, including but not limited to denial of service (DoS), man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks, and unauthorized access. It provides insight into the evolving nature of cyberattacks on IoT systems. Overall, the chapter aims to provide a comprehensive view of IoT architecture and security challenges. It seeks to give readers with a deeper understanding of how IoT networks function and the security measures necessary to safeguard them, offering valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers engaged in the design, development and adoption of IoT technology with a detailed understanding of the inherent security challenges and countermeasures.