KNX IoT: the next evolution of KNX

If KNX provides all these benefits and has been the trusted platform, then what is this KNX IoT thing all about?

At the KNX Association, we believe that there is always room for innovation. Remember that the current KNX technology is also the result of decades of steady improvements. To the core technology, to the ETS installation software and to many other aspects that make up the KNX ecosystem.

So, when thinking about how we can advance KNX even further, we listened to our user base: system architects, planners, installers. What are the things they brought up the most, what functionality would give them additional freedom, saves them time and money, and makes their customers even more enthusiastic about their work?

One thing that KNX installers appreciate, is the flexibility that the standard provides when installing and connecting devices. Whether using TP cabling or RF wireless for example. Even more flexibility is always welcome. And in today’s hyperconnected world, an even easier way to connect to other technologies and enabling more integrated applications and services would be greatly appreciated.

When we started out with these wishes, it became clear that KNX should embrace IP (Internet Protocol) connectivity. After all, IP is what runs the internet. It is what connects all kinds of computing devices together, from pocketable phones to large servers in a datacenter. And it is the technology that forms the data-backbone in every building.

If KNX can use IP, the advantages will immediately be clear: It can run on existing or new IP-based infrastructure in a building, using either wired networks like Ethernet or wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi or Thread.. It would also open the way to secure connections to the cloud.

On top of that, an IP-based foundation can leverage all the advancements that have been made in the IT world over the years, in terms of security and compliance with data security regulations.

All of that led us to the creation of KNX IoT.

Our thinking with KNX IoT was “let’s expand the possibilities of KNX by adding IPv6 to that, to take advantage of all the benefits it offers, while keeping everything in place that makes KNX so well supported and familiar”.

This means that KNX IoT is considered an extension to KNX. KNX IoT can be used in a KNX installation alongside every other KNX transport methods, like TP, RF and/or KNXnet/IP. KNX IoT devices work and act like any other KNX device and can be configured as such in ETS. No need for additional training, and no learning curve. KNX IoT can be applied by KNX installers from the get-go.

All that is needed to start using KNX IoT devices is a KNX IoT Router. A small and low-cost device that takes care of the communication between KNX IoT and other KNX components. Add this device, and KNX IoT products will “just work”.

KNX IoT is based on proven IPv6 technology. IPv6 is the latest version of the IP protocol which offers unlimited address spaces and hence provides unlimited scalability. It can be used simultaneously with the older IPv4 standard on the same networks at the same time.

KNX IoT’s IPv6 foundation means that it can use traditional IP-based networks and technologies. Think for example of the existing ethernet wiring that exists in practically any building. Get immediate access to every floor and room without the need to install new infrastructure.

And as the internet is based on the same IP technology, using KNX IoT makes it easier to integrate with cloud services. This opens all kinds of new applications, like hosted management services, AI functionality and online analysis tools.

This way, KNX IoT allows installers to save time, save money, and even offer connectivity to all kinds of new online applications, thus greatly expanding the range of services they can offer or refer to.