The Internet of Things (IoT) is a quickly growing market segment, and IoT applications often require smaller size, lower cost, andlower power consumption to address many small-but-constant battery operated applications such as home automation controls, sensors, and medical devices. As a result, these devices offer a unique variety of connectivity options beyond what were available to once-typical wireless devices. One of these options involves choosing to create either a hosted or a hostless IoT Wi-Fi device.

While traditional Wi-Fi connectivity is provided by Wi-Fi modules that communicate with external host microcontrollers (MCUs) (a hosted solution), a module’s internal MCU also can act as a host with the application running from the internal memory (a hostless iot Wi-Fi solution).

Reliable hosted and hostless solutions all need simple onboarding processes and high-quality security mechanisms, but each solution has a variety of distinct benefits and challenges

As an IoT connectivity provider, how do you choose and implement a hosted or hostless solution? 

First, you’ll need to understand the benefits of each type of solution described below and select the right solution for your application, then consider and implement the best technology for your solution.

By assessing these benefits and challenges, you can begin to understand whether a hosted or hostless solution will suit your application better.

The Right Technology for a Hostless Solution: A Low-Cost IoT Wi-Fi Module

Silex Technology offers an ideal hostless solution for devices. The SX-ULPGN is ideal for embedded wireless products including devices used for:

• Smart homes
• Smart cities
• Factory automation
• Appliances
• Sensors
• Wearables
• Medical applications
• Security systems
• Remote controls devices

The SX-ULPGN module is based on Qualcomm Technologies’ QCA4010 solution and is an excellent choice for device OEMs looking to design Wi-Fi connected products in a cost-effective way that take advantage of the benefits of a hostless solution.

To learn more about how to choose hosted or hostless technology for your device, and find the right technology to support your choice, download the new white paper Understanding Internet of Things WiFi Designs – Hosted & Hostless.