Transforming Industrial IoT with Big Data and Blockchain: A Review of Current Solutions and Emerging Trends

Abstract

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is reshaping industries by enabling advanced automation, real-time monitoring, and enhanced operational efficiency through interconnected devices and systems. The convergence of Big Data and Blockchain technologies offers transformative potential for IIoT, addressing key challenges related to data management, security, and integrity. This review provides an in-depth analysis of how Big Data analytics and Blockchain technology are being utilized to advance IIoT systems. Big Data enables the processing and analysis of vast volumes of data generated by IIoT devices, facilitating predictive maintenance, optimization of operations, and data-driven decision-making. However, the sheer volume and complexity of data pose significant challenges in terms of storage, processing, and analysis. Blockchain technology addresses these challenges by providing a decentralized, immutable ledger that enhances data security, transparency, and trustworthiness.

This paper categorizes and reviews current solutions that integrate Big Data and Blockchain within IIoT contexts, highlighting their applications, benefits, and limitations. It explores how Blockchain can ensure data integrity and secure data transactions, while Big Data analytics offers actionable insights and operational efficiency. Additionally, the review identifies emerging trends, such as the use of smart contracts for automated processes and decentralized applications for enhanced scalability. By synthesizing recent research and advancements, this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between Big Data and Blockchain in IIoT. It offers valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers looking to leverage these technologies to address existing challenges and drive future innovations in Industrial IoT systems.