The IoT buzzword can feel intimidating, but connecting your projects to the internet is easier — and cheaper — than you might think.
Modules like the ESP8266 or ESP32 cost only a few dollars and include Wi-Fi and processing power in a tiny package. With a few lines of code, you can send sensor data to a cloud service, control devices remotely, or create a simple web dashboard.
Security matters: always use encryption where possible and avoid exposing devices directly to the open internet. A small investment in time and care makes for a connected project that’s both useful and safe.