The open-source system is widely regarded as the dominant force in the Internet of Things (IoT) due to its adaptability and support for various architectures. However, the use of Linux for simple, single-function devices such as smart thermostats or connected bird feeders may be unnecessary and potentially risky. Reports of vulnerabilities in Linux have raised concerns about its suitability for an ever-expanding IoT landscape. As the industry anticipates significant growth in the next five years, developers must consider alternatives to Linux for connected devices.
While Linux is renowned for its architecture, compatibility, affordability, and accessibility, it may not be the best choice for every connected device. This is primarily due to the increasing simplicity of modern devices, which perform single or basic functions, making a full-featured operating system like Linux excessive. Additionally, cybersecurity concerns have been raised following recent incidents in Linux, leading to a reevaluation of its suitability for IoT devices. As an alternative to Linux, real-time operating systems (RTOS) have emerged as a compelling solution for resource-constrained devices.
RTOS offers benefits such as reduced attack surfaces, efficient memory and processing power usage, and optimized responsiveness for specialized embedded systems. The renaissance of RTOS, supported by maturing tooling, middleware, and cloud integration, empowers developers to build secure and scalable IoT products tailored to specific requirements. Developers are encouraged to evaluate the unique needs of each project before selecting an operating system. By considering factors such as processing power, memory constraints, determinism requirements, and long-term goals, an unbiased assessment may reveal RTOS as a superior choice for building secure, high-performance embedded devices aligned with their intended use case.
As the IoT landscape continues to evolve, expanding one’s operating system horizons and making informed decisions becomes essential in delivering tailored, efficient solutions for the IoT ecosystem.