IoT Operating Systems (os) in Edge Computing

With the rise of Edge Computing, devices are now smarter and capable of processing data closer to the source. In this ecosystem, we classify devices into two key groups: End Devices (Nodes) and Gateways. End devices are typically less powerful, while gateways handle more advanced data processing and connectivity.

As IoT devices become more complex, traditional hardware that once operated without an operating system (OS) is now adopting specialized IoT OS solutions. These operating systems are designed to manage constraints like memory, power, and processing limitations while ensuring connectivity and security. Both open-source and closed-source IoT OS options are available today, catering to different hardware architectures, communication protocols, and use cases.

Key Features of IoT Operating Systems

When selecting an IoT OS, several parameters should be considered:

• Footprint: Since IoT devices are resource-constrained, an ideal IoT OS should have minimal memory and CPU requirements.
• Portability: The OS should be flexible and easily adaptable to different hardware platforms.
• Modularity: A modular OS structure allows developers to include only essential features for optimized performance.
• Connectivity Support: Support for protocols like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, MQTT, CoAP, and LoRaWAN is crucial.
• Security: IoT OS should implement secure boot mechanisms, encryption protocols, and vulnerability management.
• Scalability: The OS must be capable of running on both small nodes and powerful gateways.
• Reliability: Since IoT devices often operate in remote environments, reliability and stability are vital.

Popular IoT Operating Systems in 2025

Below are some of the most widely used and effective IoT operating systems for various hardware types and applications.

1. TinyOS

TinyOS

is an open-source embedded OS designed for low-power wireless devices such as sensors and actuators. It is lightweight, written in nesC, and suitable for wireless sensor networks, building automation, and smart metering systems.

• Key Features:
  • Component-based architecture for improved modularity.
  • Efficient memory management for resource-constrained devices.
  • Ideal for applications requiring long battery life.

Official Website:https://github.com/tinyos

2. RIOT OS

RIOT OS

is a free and open-source operating system designed for low-power IoT devices across multiple hardware architectures (32-bit, 16-bit, and 8-bit systems).

• Key Features:
  • Lightweight design optimized for microcontrollers.
  • Implements IPv6, MQTT, and CoAP protocols.
  • Strong security features ensure data privacy and protection.

Official Website:https://www.riot-os.org/

3. Contiki OS

Contiki

is an open-source OS designed for low-power microcontrollers in IoT devices. It is particularly popular in smart home systems, street lighting, and environmental monitoring.

• Key Features:
  • Lightweight footprint with efficient memory usage.
  • Built-in IPv6 stack for seamless connectivity.
  • Flexible for large-scale wireless sensor networks.

Official Website:https://www.contiki-ng.org/

4. Mongoose OS

Mongoose OS

is an open-source IoT firmware development framework for microcontrollers like ESP32, ESP8266, and STM32.

• Key Features:
  • Supports JavaScript and C for IoT application development.
  • Built-in cloud connectivity for seamless integration with AWS IoT, Azure IoT, and Google Cloud IoT.
  • Ideal for prototyping and rapid IoT development.

Official Website:https://mongoose-os.com/

5. Zephyr OS

Zephyr OS

is an open-source RTOS optimized for IoT devices. Hosted by the Linux Foundation, it is designed to be secure, scalable, and modular.

• Key Features:
  • Small footprint and minimal resource consumption.
  • Supports multiple connectivity protocols and security features.
  • Ideal for sensor hubs, wearables, and smart home devices.

Official Website:https://zephyrproject.org/

6. ARM Mbed OS

ARM Mbed OS

is an open-source embedded OS designed specifically for devices powered by ARM Cortex-M processors.

• Key Features:
  • Comprehensive support for IoT protocols like TLS, MQTT, and CoAP.
  • Built-in power management for enhanced battery life.
  • Strong focus on security with TLS/DTLS encryption support.

Official Website:https://os.mbed.com/

7. NuttX RTOS

NuttX

is a real-time operating system (RTOS) designed for POSIX compliance. It’s scalable from 8-bit to 32-bit microcontroller platforms.

• Key Features:
  • Offers a rich set of POSIX APIs for flexibility.
  • Ideal for wearable devices, drones, and automotive control systems.

Official Website:https://nuttx.apache.org/

8. Nucleus RTOS

Nucleus RTOS

is a robust, real-time OS used in embedded systems across industries like medical, automotive, and industrial automation.

• Key Features:
  • Low power consumption for energy-efficient devices.
  • Built-in networking protocols for enhanced connectivity.
  • Proven track record in mission-critical systems.

Official Website:https://www.mentor.com/embedded-software/nucleus/

9. FreeRTOS

FreeRTOS

is a popular open-source RTOS designed to manage real-time applications in embedded systems.

• Key Features:
  • Extremely lightweight with low overhead.
  • Scalable across a wide range of IoT devices.
  • Strong community support and extensive documentation.

Official Website:https://www.freertos.org/

10. Ubuntu Core

Ubuntu Core

is a secure, lightweight version of Ubuntu designed for IoT devices and embedded systems.

• Key Features:
  • Focuses on security with strict app isolation and automatic updates.
  • Supports containerized applications for better scalability.
  • Ideal for industrial gateways and home automation.

Official Website:https://ubuntu.com/core

Conclusion

Choosing the right IoT operating system depends on your project’s requirements, such as hardware compatibility, connectivity protocols, and resource constraints. Whether you’re developing smart home devices, industrial sensors, or healthcare solutions, options like TinyOS, RIOT OS, Contiki, and Zephyr OS offer powerful features to suit different use cases.

By understanding each IoT OS’s strengths and capabilities, you can make an informed decision to ensure seamless, secure, and efficient device performance in your IoT projects.

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