THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND SENSOR NETWORKS

The articles in this special section focus on the Internet of Things and wireless sensor networks. The decade-old concept of devising an immersively networked computing ecosystem of people and "things" is currently one of the fastest growing market segments that integrates software, services, connectivity, and devices. In contrast to conventional industrial automation and machine-to-machine operating models, the Internet of Things (IoT) differentiates itself by making humans an integral part of t he overall ecosys tem. Hence, people not only derive the benefits offered by numerous IoT applic ations, but also become active participants by serving a s walking sensor and actuator networks. In this respect, each physical "thing" becomes a digital shadow of the person using its services, both in time and in space. This raises many cornerstone questions, some of which include concerns about data collection models, data usability and freshness, and data privacy and ownership, among many others.