In the Internet of Things (IoT), communication protocols form the foundation for data exchange between devices and applications. The MQTT protocol (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) is a lightweight publish-subscribe protocol developed specifically for low-resource devices and low-bandwidth networks. It ensures reliable MQTT communication, even in high-latency or unstable connection environments. This article explains how MQTT works, which devices use it and what advantages it offers companies in the IoT.
MQTT was originally developed in 1999 by Andy Stanford-Clark (IBM) and Arlen Nipper (Arcom) to ensure the monitoring and remote control of oil and gas pipelines via satellite-based connections. Today, it is an integral part of many IoT applications - from networked household appliances to complex industrial control systems.
Its strength lies in its lean architecture: MQTT requires only minimal network resources and is therefore ideal for devices with low energy consumption, such as battery-powered sensors or actuators.
The structure of the MQTT protocol is based on a publish-subscribe model, which makes data exchange between different MQTT devices particularly efficient. Three central components take on fixed roles:
In contrast to traditional client-server structures, publishers and subscribers do not communicate directly with each other. Instead, the broker handles all MQTT communication, ensuring low latency and a stable connection.
MQTT can be seamlessly integrated into cloud platforms such as AWS IoT Core, Azure IoT Hub or private company clouds. However, the devices require stable and energy-efficient connectivity for smooth data transmission. With suitable IoT solutions and networks such as NB-IoT or LTE-M companies can operate MQTT applications securely worldwide.
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The MQTT protocol is used by a wide variety of devices that are part of IoT ecosystems. These are typically applications where low bandwidth, low power consumption and reliable communication are critical.
The MQTT protocol is versatile and suitable for numerous IoT scenarios. Its lightweight structure makes it suitable for almost any type of IoT communication - from simple sensor data to the control of complex systems.
| device type | Example | Benefits through MQTT communication |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature sensor | IoT sensor in cold chain | Real-time monitoring and alarm in the event of temperature deviations |
| Gateway | Industrial gateway with LTE-M | Secure connection between local system and cloud |
| Smart Home device | Intelligent heating | Automatic adaptation to user behaviour and tariffs |
| Vehicle telematics | Fleet management tracker | Live tracking and maintenance planning |
| Industrial plant | Production robots | Optimised control and maintenance intervals |
A central component of many MQTT installations is Eclipse Mosquitto, an open source MQTT broker under the Eclipse Foundation. It seamlessly implements the publish-subscribe model. A simple system such as a Raspberry Pi or a small cloud server is sufficient to run Eclipse Mosquitto on a server.
Implementation usually takes place in just a few steps:
Installation of the Mosquitto Broker on the desired system (Linux, Windows, macOS, embedded devices)
Configuration of ports, topics and security options
Integration of the publisher and subscriber clients
Testing and monitoring of MQTT communication
The MQTT protocol has established itself in the Internet of Things as one of the most important standards for efficient, reliable and scalable data transmission. It offers clear technical and economic advantages, especially in environments with many devices, unstable networks or limited resources.
Quality of Service describes how reliably messages are delivered in the MQTT protocol.
QoS 0 - "At most once": Message is sent at most once, no confirmation.
QoS 1 - "At least once": Message is sent at least once, recipient confirms receipt.
QoS 2 - "Exactly once": Message is delivered exactly once, highest security level.
When implementing the MQTT protocol, IoT security is a key issue. As MQTT is designed for resource-saving communication, security must be specifically considered during the implementation phase. This is the only way to guarantee data integrity, availability and confidentiality in the long term.
The MQTT protocol has established itself as one of the most important standards in IoT communication. Its lean architecture, high reliability and simple scalability make it ideal for companies that want to network devices, applications and platforms with ease. Whether for MQTT devices in the smart home, in industry or in large-scale IoT infrastructures: the protocol ensures smooth data transmission even under difficult network conditions.
In combination with energy-efficient IoT connectivity such as NB-IoT or LTE-M and suitable IoT solutions, a future-proof infrastructure is created for almost every industry. Companies that use MQTT strategically benefit from lower operating costs, greater efficiency and the opportunity to realise new digital business models.
Our diverse portfolio offers comprehensive mobile communications solutions, customized campus networks, energy-efficient NB-IoT and LTE-M technologies, and satellite IoT for remote areas. This provides you with the right infrastructure for every application – secure, scalable, and future-proof.
Having been with Telekom since 2008, Ümit possesses a comprehensive understanding of various facets of the Internet of Things. He has a keen interest in the digital transformation of the business world. On this blog, he shares insights into the latest developments and trends in the IoT sector that provide genuine value to customers.
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