Internet of Things (IoT) Systems: A Survey ofPlatforms, Protocols, and Application Frameworks

Abstract

A new paradigm in information and communication technology, the Internet of Things (IoT) allows for the interconnection
of previously siloed systems in many different fields, including transportation, healthcare, industry, and even the environment.
Despite its potential, IoT development faces significant challenges, including architectural heterogeneity, interoperability constraints,
data management complexity, and security vulnerabilities. This survey presents a structured overview of IoT architectures, focusing
on layered system models that incorporate edge, fog, and cloud computing to optimize scalability, energy efficiency, and Quality of
Service (QoS). It examines communication protocols and IoT platforms, emphasizing their role in achieving device interoperability
and robust data exchange. Middleware and application frameworks are highlighted as critical enablers, bridging device-level
interactions with application-layer functionalities while ensuring data processing, security, and privacy. A comprehensive literature
review synthesizes recent advancements in IoT middleware design, platform evaluation, multi-protocol integration, and lightweight
cryptography, identifying prevailing gaps such as the absence of standardized frameworks and persistent security concerns. The
survey underscores the necessity for unified middleware standards, standardized platform evaluation methodologies, and resourceefficient
security mechanisms. Future research directions include real-world implementation of sustainable architectures, enhanced
protocol flexibility, and advanced privacy-preserving solutions to enable resilient, scalable, and secure IoT ecosystems.