Rapid progress in communication technologies, in combination with the ubiquity of computers and the profusion of personal mobile computing devices have contributed to the development of many extended and interconnected systems. These facilities promise easier interaction, greater flexibility, remote monitoring and remote control in operation, as well as the prospect of enhanced integration with other systems, to establish the Internet of Things (IoT). This chapter outlines the nature of IoT, describes application areas where IoT has traction and plausible benefits. The adoption and direction of these technologies is also addressed. While the progress of IoT is tangible and continues apace, there are areas of concern, both technical and societal, that give cause for reflection on the credibility and promise heralded in many quarters for IoT. Despite facing issues, including reliability, security, privacy, integrity and locus of responsibility, the future of IoT may be assured, but the benefits may be limited by cost, availability and negative social impact.