What is AWS IoT Core?
AWS IoT Core is a managed cloud service that lets connected devices interact with cloud applications and other devices easily and securely. It can support billions of devices and trillions of messages.
Key Concepts
1. Protocols
- Supports MQTT (lightweight), HTTPS, LoRaWAN, and MQTT over WSS.
2. Device Gateway
- Maintains long-lived, bi-directional connections for devices.
- Secure communication via TLS (X.509 certificates).
3. Device Shadow
- A JSON document that stores the current state of a device (e.g., Light="ON").
- Applications can read/write to the shadow even if the device is offline. When the device reconnects, it syncs.
4. Rules Engine
- Routes data from devices to AWS services (e.g., "If Temp > 50, send to SNS").
Exam Tips
[!IMPORTANT] "Connect devices / MQTT": Answer is AWS IoT Core. "Interact with offline devices": Answer is Device Shadow.
[!TIP] Think "Billions of devices" and "Bi-directional communication".
Common Use Cases
- Smart Home: Controlling lights and thermostats.
- Industrial IoT: Monitoring factory sensors.
- Connected Vehicles: Telemetry from cars.