In this chapter, you were introduced to a lot of different principles, protocols, and microcontroller boards used in IoT prototyping. We've learned what constitutes the client-server architecture. Next, we looked at how the frontend and backend play together and how machines communicate with one another using APIs. Finally, we learned about the frameworks that use web development technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build desktop and mobile apps, which can communicate with your prototype. We also had a look at various communication methods; devices can transmit information not only over the internet, but also by using radio signals.

One of the most common modules for integrating radio-communication into your project is called XBee, and uses the ZigBee specification. Some devices also ship with Thread support—an upcoming radio-based protocol...