Aug 28, 2015

Many cities are starting to utilize smart infrastructure to strengthen energy conservation efforts, save money and improve public safety. The Internet of Things, or the network of interconnected sensors, objects and technologies, is helping communities solve infrastructure issues and helping government organizations conserve capital. In fact, according to a 2014 report from Cisco, the IoT stands to generate $4.6 trillion for government agencies over the next 10 years. From a public safety standpoint, the IoT can include wireless networks of video surveillance cameras that provide real-time access to the community.

Cameras help with traffic flow

One of the most important ways smart infrastructure is beginning to help cities is traffic management. According to the National Association of Counties, smart tech can improve transportation. When cities utilize real-time video surveillance and other wired and wireless devices spread throughout the town, they can monitor road conditions and inform the community of major backups or accidents.

For instance, RCR Wireless reported that in Bangkok, Thailand, smart road systems could save the city up to $1 billion annuallydue to increased traffic flow and reduced congestion along city streets. Bangkok, which is home to close to 6 million people, has had traffic problems in the past – sometimes resulting in workers being up to four hours late to work. By installing intelligent transport systems, the city could potentially save the average commuter between two and four days of travel time per year – and prevent up to 8,000 accidents.

Security issues

With the implementation of all this new technology in existing infrastructure, some have expressed concerns that the systems are less than secure. Sensors and video cameras placed around the city may be vulnerable to hacks, which indicates a distinct need for better, more secure systems.

“Every day we depend more and more on technology,” Cesar Cerrudo, a founding board member for a global nonprofit initiative called Securing Smart Cities, told Government Technology. “If that technology is not secure and protected, it will get attacked, and people and businesses will suffer the consequences.”

Traditional networking systems may not offer the kind of security that is necessary in this new age of intelligent technologies and interconnected objects. What can be done to make sure both the transportation and public safety sectors are safely utilizing the IoT for the betterment of their communities?

Mesh networks to the rescue

In order to get the most out of smart infrastructure and ensure its security, cities need to make sure they’re implementing the right kind of networking solutions. Ring-based architectures may not offer the proper resilience required for utilizing intelligent transportation and surveillance systems. Mesh networks, on the other hand, are more inherently resilient and secure than traditional technologies, meaning infrastructure is better protected. Mesh technology is self-healing, as well: If any point in the web of access nodes was to suffer an outage, the network would automatically reroute bandwidth through other points and ensure the fast, reliable delivery of video and voice data.

Contact Firetide today to see how our mesh technology can help smart cities strengthen their network security.