A Comparative and Analytical Study of IoT Reference Architectures: Towards a Suitable Architectural Framework for Libyan Enterprises
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65405/56qz9129Keywords:
Internet of Things (IoT), Digital Transformation, Reference Architecture, Interoperability, Edge Computing, Libyan InstitutionsAbstract
Selecting appropriate reference architectures for the Internet of Things (IoT) has become vital to ensure the desired institutional integration and operational efficiency. This is due to the growing shift of Libyan institutions toward digital transformation and the adoption of smart technologies. This study comes to provide a comprehensive comparative analysis of IoT reference architectures aimed at identifying and extracting the most suitable technical and organizational requirements for developing digital infrastructure in the service and industrial sectors within the local environment. The adopted methodology relied on a thorough review and technical analysis of five leading global reference architectures: the International Telecommunication Union model (ITU-T), Cisco, IBM, Intel, and Microsoft. These models were evaluated based on core architectural criteria including device and network management, data processing and storage mechanisms, cybersecurity and privacy protection frameworks, in addition to scalability, system interoperability, and support for edge computing, while taking into account the challenges and conditions specific to the local environment, most notably the varying stability of communication networks, limited bandwidth, and fluctuating readiness of basic infrastructure. The results of the comparative analysis demonstrated the strategic importance of relying on edge computing (Edge Computing) to reduce direct and continuous reliance on central cloud connectivity, ensuring the continuous operation of critical systems and avoiding service disruptions during connection instability. Results also revealed the necessity of adopting open standards to facilitate integration and compatibility with legacy and future systems without vendor lock-in. The study concludes by offering a proposal that includes a set of detailed architectural requirements and technical priorities, providing a practical action plan to guide decision-makers in Libyan institutions toward selecting and implementing the most suitable architecture to achieve the objectives of Libyan institutions.
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References
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