DEV Community: Rapinno Tech

Usage of IoT set to increase with 5G Adoption. Are we ready?

Rapinno Tech — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 02:22:24 +0000

Faster speeds, low latency, and better bandwidth! 5G is all set to open doors for new opportunities. The year 2020 was deemed to be revolutionary for commercialization of the 5G technology. With predictions from global tech giants, 5G was supposed to establish millions of IoT network endpoints by 2020. While these predictions saw a setback, courtesy the COVID-19 health crisis, the numbers are expected to grow in the post-pandemic world with higher dependence on IoT.

Risks Involved

The blazing fast internet speeds and lower latency might promise large-scale deployment of IoT devices, but this cutting edge technology will come at its cost. 5G infrastructure will change global network spheres and user experience forever. The vast expansion of network endpoints under 5G support will attract more number of attack vectors. More access points will mean more opportunities for not just the users but for hackers too.

The global interconnections that we benefit from will then increase this network vulnerability. If innovations in cybersecurity couldn't keep up with the rapid growth of this cutting edge technology, we might see large scale security mishaps in next few years.

Problems with possibilities

Cloud computing is pivotal for IoT capabilities over 5G infrastructure. The network elements and operations function using the data stored in the cloud. Deployment of computational components and services via the cloud will mean they will be closer to the edge of the network. It will ensure faster and easier wide-scale deployment of operations by service providers.

The 5G architecture provides flexibility for the passage of massive amounts of data through the cloud. The downside to this is that it can result in an explosion of attacks ranging from standard IoT attacks, smartphone infections, OS malfunctions, and more.

Engagement with 5G architecture requires a more open, virtual environment, meaning restricted coordination with physical network elements and heavy dependence on the cloud. This heavy dependence means more number of interconnections, making it easier for hackers to expand the attack radius once the security of a single access point is compromised.

Final Thoughts

5G infrastructure might be ideal for deployment of IoT devices as it can handle large amounts of data, but the security risks give rise to industry level scepticism. The risks involved for both customers and service providers can lead to damaging trust between the two.

It won't be wrong to say that we have taken a leap of faith with 5G. The social desperation for improved IoT capabilities can lead to severe repercussions.

Machine Learning Glossary for Beginners

Rapinno Tech — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 02:17:39 +0000

Machine Learning (ML), is the field of study that relates to computer algorithms that are capable of improving automatically though experience. Over the last few years, ML has gained prominence due to the cutting-edge applications in diverse sectors, such as aviation, healthcare, and finance. This has motivated many to delve into the field.

This article covers the basic terms for beginners so that you will have a strong base of knowledge to support you in learning advanced ML concepts.

The 4 types of Machine learning systems are:

Supervised learning

This includes providing numerous labelled data for the algorithm to learn and generate underlying rules.

Unsupervised learning

A large amount of data is provided to the algorithm to identify patterns and categorize them based on observed similarities.

Semi-supervised learning

As the name implies, it uses limited labelled data to produce underlying criteria. Based on this, numerous unlabelled data is provided for learning.

Reinforcement learning

It is a trial and error method. The algorithm is provided with a large number of unlabelled data, processing which will grant it positive or negative feedback based on the result.

Having covered the types, we can proceed to learn the basic terminology you will routinely come across in the realm of ML.

NLP

Natural language processing essentially teaches computers human text and speech and operates using them.

Perceptron

Mark 1 Perceptron was the first-ever custom-built machine for image recognition developed by IBM, which failed to recognize many patterns. The software Perceptron was salvaged to be used in the future.

ANN- Artificial Neural Network

A set algorithm is modelled with feedback loops similar to our neural system. Many layers of these neurons are used to create a Neural network or Artificial Neural network. It is used to solve complex problems. Multi layering helps to exponentially improve the processing power of this system. Each layer can be used for distinct data attributes.

The most significant ML algorithms are:

Minimax

The Nearest neighbour algorithm that is used in pattern recognition

Backpropagation

It helps hidden neural layers to adjust to a newer set of characteristics presented by the data.

Boosting

This makes use of many weak learning algorithms to produce a strong learner.

The field of machine learning is vast and exciting. There is still a lot to learn through reading and experimentation. We hope this article has introduced you to the crucial fundamentals and has inspired you to take your learning to the next level.

Growing Importance of SSL Certificates and their Advantages

Rapinno Tech — Thu, 06 Aug 2020 13:24:00 +0000

Today, an SSL (Secure Socket Layer) Certificate serves as the standard method for achieving an acceptable level of
protection and security of customer data and/or transactions on websites and e-commerce portals.
But what is an SSL Certificate? Simply put, it is a file with a cryptographic key of the details of an online entity (like a
website) that activates a lock. Now it can only be unlocked at the receiver side (your web browser) with the same
digital key. Typically, any website address that begins with “HTTPS” instead of the traditional “HTTP” either has or had
an SSL Certification.
Importance of SSL Certificates
The importance of SSL Certificates has only grown over time, some of which are described below:
• Made Mandatory by Google: In 2018, Google decided to flag all websites without SSL Certification as ‘Not Secure’
in the URL bar of its Chrome browser. Soon other popular web browsers followed suit making it risky for websites
not to have one.
• PCI/DSS Requirements: Any e-commerce site accepting credit card payments has to meet PCI/DSS (Payment
Card Industry Data Security Standard) requirements; one which an SSL Certificate helps satisfy. The penalty for
not doing so leads to a ban on accepting online payments, in addition to monthly fines.
• SSL Equals Trust: Beyond authentication and encryption, an SSL certificate imbues trust in a customer. Because
HTTPS offers a basic level of protection against phishing and other related criminal activities online, informed
customers naturally trust sites with SSL certification over those without it.
Advantages of an SSL Certificate
An SSL certification should not be seen as a compulsion. On the contrary, web portal owners have a lot to gain with
HTTPS, some of which are described below:
• Better Search Engine Rankings: In 2014, Google made changes to its search result algorithm to favor the HTTPS-enabled website. However minute, one cannot deny a direct correlation between SSL certification and a website’s
higher search engine rankings.
• Better Page Loading Speeds: Because HTTPS sites have better data integrity, their pages also load faster than
those of an HTTP site. Given that a large number of visitors to sites nowadays are mobile users, this seemingly
simple attribute can be the difference between a user staying on the site as opposed to abandoning it for a faster
alternative.
• Win-Win For All: Just as customers today are concerned about their sensitive data getting leaked, business
owners to are petrified of the detrimental effects of wiretapping, phishing, and MIM attacks on their online
business. With SSL certificate security, both parties get their peace of mind, which in turn fosters a more robust
business viz-a-viz customer relationship.

Take A Quick Glance At The Top 5 Business Apps On The Play Store

Rapinno Tech — Fri, 17 Jul 2020 04:50:45 +0000

Gone are the days when Play Store apps were limited to social media and games. Today, you can find scores of business-ready apps, built to serve the needs of freelancers, small business owners and side-hustlers. If you are a small to medium-sized business, then these 5 apps on Android definitely deserve your attention.

Asana

Asana is light yet smart, project management solution on Play Store. Apart from the usual reminder and to-do-list creation tools, the app lets you add colleagues, due dates, task instructions and comments on specific items, and share files to and from Google Drive.

The app can simultaneously track the progress of multiple projects and displays all that information in a visually appealing manner. With its all-powerful search feature, you can pull up all kinds of project-related data.

FreshBooks

Designed specifically for small businesses, FreshBooks is a cloud-based accounting service geared towards the non-account businesspersons. Primary features include expense tracking, invoicing, time-tracking, business report generation and even manage credit card payments.

This app integrates well with other services like WordPress, MailChimp, PayPal etc to further extend business productivity. FreshBooks is cross-platform and cloud-based, translating to seamless access from your phone or computer, without ever worrying about backups.

G Suite

Think of G Suite as a one-stop solution for your basic office stuff. On the productivity side, there is support for documents, spreadsheets, PDFs, notes, images etc that you can create, share and modify on the go.

Its team messaging service has support for text, voice and video calls. Additionally, you get 15GB of free cloud storage via Google Drive with Gmail and Google Calendar integration for your email and scheduling needs.

Slack

Slack is a chat app specifically designed for businesses. Sporting a clean and simple user interface, it lets you open multiple channels; share documents; make conference calls and employ a chatbot wherever necessary.

Slack scales pretty well, and it will work as a chat app just fine without forcing you to subscribe to its other features. Plus, you can integrate it with all of the apps mentioned above.

Square Point of Sale

A no-frills PoS (Point-of-Sale) app, Square empowers even the tiniest of businesses to accept credit card payment. Upon downloading the app, and signing up, you are sent a credit card reader dongle by mail.

Simply plug the dongle to your Android device, and you have your mobile PoS machine all set up to accept card payments from customers.

Next Steps in Building a Software Solution

Rapinno Tech — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 05:48:03 +0000

Creating a software solution tends to be a complex process that requires adequate amounts of planning. It is common among teams to miss or overlook certain procedures, which cause significant problems in the future. Given below are six steps you need to follow when building a software solution for your use case:

Identify the feasibility and requirements of the project

As you already know why you need a software solution, the first step is to understand the feasibility of the project. The development team should understand the goal of your venture. At the same time, you should know the tasks, level of involvement, resources, and time it will take to complete the project. It also helps calculate the Return on Investment (ROI) and risks involved in undertaking the venture.

Define communication lines

From the day you start the project, everyone on the team should know the roles of all the members. Every individual will place requests from clarifications and external system access. Knowing who to contact for a given task will reduce the chances of miscommunication while ensuring the operations continue smoothly.

Focus on design

In the design phase, you need to create a visual prototype of the software solution. You will be using this as a model in all the other stages of development. When focusing on the design, it will give you an idea of the processes you need to follow to achieve your objectives and requirements. It also highlights software and hardware components and functionality of the solution along with the tools you need for future development.

Start coding

During this stage, your team starts the process of converting the design blueprint into the software solution you need for your business. Always make sure the code conforms to your specifications and requirements. It will go through several stages from alpha to release model before you can deploy it.

Test with integration

Once your team builds the software solution, you need to start testing its functionality and capability. During this phase, you can take a look at user acceptance rates and identify bugs.

Deployment and maintenance

The final phase of building a software solution is deploying it. If it is a simple project, you can go for a complete release. However, if the solution is complex, you need to opt for releasing it in stages. As the users use your software solution, you need to continue maintaining it. You should fine-tune and upgrade the product from the feedback you receive.

Use these steps to create the foundation for your development team to start building your software solution!

Importance of Standard Operating Procedures in Code Development

Rapinno Tech — Tue, 26 May 2020 15:03:40 +0000

Standard Operating Procedures or SOPs are documents containing step-by-step instructions the user needs to follow to perform a function. It acts as a guide, highlighting the best practices you need to integrate into your workflow to get high-quality products.

While it doesn’t show the user how to perform specific tasks, it creates a transparent framework for your company. If you are on the fence about setting SOPs for your business, given below are three reasons that highlight their importance in code development:

Decrease training costs

With SOPs, you are setting up your company for future growth. When the plan is to have multiple branch offices, these documents are extremely helpful. For starters, they allow you to port your work processes to new locations.
Another major benefit of SOPs is that they bring down the cost of training. New employees will have access to standard operating procedures. At the same time, it highlights their responsibilities and ensures everyone is on the same page. Your new staff will be able to settle into your company quickly while decreasing your training costs.

Prevent the loss of knowledge

Imagine a situation where only a handful of employees know about top-notch code development practices. However, these staff members decided to leave your company or take a couple of weeks off to recover from an illness/go on vacation.

Without SOPs, any employee loss can have a significant impact on your business. You will have to halt operations, which can be an expensive affair. With SOPs, code development documentation will remain intact despite the resignation and retirement of your employees. During the time of absence of your staff, you can transfer the work to another member with minimal direction.

Standardize consistency and quality

With SOPs, your company will be able to ensure a level of quality and consistency in your code development. The reason being, employees have to follow the instructions highlighted in the official document to complete their jobs.

As a result, your staff doesn’t have to waste time trying to figure out what they have to do every day. From the start of code development till the end, you can be confident about the product you deliver to your clients. It protects your company’s integrity while providing the framework for employee accountability.

SOPs are indispensable when it comes to code development, due to the importance of these documents. If you don’t have one for your company, develop and integrate it with operations for both short and long-term growth!

Role of UI/UX in Full-Stack Development

Rapinno Tech — Wed, 13 May 2020 06:47:24 +0000

Full-Stack development is a term that denotes the development of both server-side and client-side parts of a web application. It means the development of both front and back-end parts.

In general, full-stack web developers are known for their ability to create a wholesome website and web application. These developers generally work on debugging, database, backend and frontend of websites and web applications.

What is UI/UX in web and web app development?

UI denotes User-Interface and UX denotes User Experience as most of us know. Any website and even any app are identified as the best only when these things are offered. It means that only when the users get the best experience, they are best. In the same way, the interface should be easy for any person to use. So, not just a UX/UI Designer, but even a full-stack developer should be considerate about these two things.

What is the role of UI/UX in full-stack development?

As mentioned earlier, a full-stack developer will work both on the server and the client-side of a web or app development. So, they can get a complete picture of the process of development. As they get a complete view, they should be cautious in the development process. They should make sure that the full-stack website that they develop should provide the best experience and interface for users.

Comprehensive thinking:

The biggest benefit for full-stack designers is their comprehensive thinking ability. A designer with design and development process knowledge also knows about the restrictions of web/app design. It means that they can have complete control over the expectation of the design of an app or website. When they are familiar with the process, they can make their team even more convenient to gain knowledge on user experience, marketing and development. In turn, they can get seamless co-operation from their team. The result will be the development of the app or website with the best UI/UX design.

Conclusion:

In short, the fundamental goal of any business is to increase growth. They wish to achieve this by increasing sales. With the right UX/UI design in full-stack development, they can achieve these goals. With the best user experience and interface, customer satisfaction for any business will improve. In turn, there will be a considerable increase in the number of users for any business application. The same thing will happen with the best UI/UX in full-stack website development. So, full-stack developers should focus on the best UI/UX design!

Why is Node.js a popular full-stack web framework?

Rapinno Tech — Wed, 13 May 2020 06:37:48 +0000

JavaScript has gone on to define popular computer languages of modern times in the recent past mostly owing to the huge demand globally for web applications. For most of the coders, while program coding for multiple browsers, JavaScript seems to be the only choice for all front-end developers.

One often-repeated argument is the acknowledgement of other coding languages such as TypeScript, Dart or CoffeeScript as alternatives of Javascript. But, the truth be told TypeScript is identified as a super-set of JavaScript which includes many object-oriented programming features, which include classes, optional static typing and interfaces, and moreover it still in a nascent stage. On the other hand, CoffeeScript is also viewed majorly as a kind of syntactic sugar which will eventually be referred down by the use of JavaScript. And for Dart, a coding language is also categorized as a major object-oriented language with C-like syntax and similarity and is dependent upon JavaScript for compiling into popular browsers.

With the rise and growth of Node.js, JavaScript has taken a leap into no longer being confined as just a front-end developer tool and additionally back-end is not perceived as rocket science anymore by front-end coders.
Over the last few years, coders had the tendency to refer JavaScript as the only available silver bullet which can accommodate coders in every situation such as desktop application, web server, front-end, embedded system, databases and a whole lot more.

Furthermore, considering the widespread audience for JavaScript, Node.js has made some significant gain for all full-stack web developers. But it is to be noted that Node.js is designed as a lightweight language and therefore can only provide fundamental functionalities which include working as webserver to propel the web application level development speed.

Further understanding the absolute need of Node.js, one is also advised not to use Node.js for various CPU-intensive operation; whereas heavy computation only further negates almost of its other advantages.
Where Node.js shine brightly is while building quickly scalable forms of network and its applications, as it possesses the capability to handle large instances of simultaneous established connections with a high amount of throughput, further equating to a classic case of scalability.

Also considering how Node.js works under the hood of your computer device is unique in comparison to other such technology with each individual request spawning a new line of thread. Since it uses non-blocking I/O, allows for multiple connections.

Best Practices of Desktop as a Service

Rapinno Tech — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 07:39:38 +0000

Desktop as a service or DaaS is a model of providing virtual desktop environments such as user preferences, files, applications, and operating systems to users. It uses cloud-technology and leverages network, storage, and computer infrastructure to run these virtual machines (VM).

DaaS – The Best Practices

When it comes to implementing the DaaS model, it is always necessary to evaluate your needs. Being aware of your requirements will help reduce situations where you under-purchase or overspend. Make sure you look at the IT management and software costs, before investing in this type of infrastructure.

Also, it is essential to choose between nonpersistent and persistent desktops. In the former, the device won’t save anything after the user logs out. In persistent desktops, the virtual machine will save all the changes.

DaaS – A better solution

With conventional desktop deployment practices, IT departments were spending excess time to run, maintain, and upgrade their devices. DaaS is a new solution, which can provide consistent and straightforward access to data and applications, irrespective of the device.

Users can access these virtual desktops through smartphones or other types of similar electronic gadgets. DaaS helps save money and time, as it changes the way people access their devices. For instance, people can access their work infrastructure securely, despite being on the move or at home.

As DaaS use virtual machines (VM), these models are quite successful in a variety of situations. Software developers will benefit from this type of environment, as they no longer need to use multiple devices. When it comes to cross-platform development, it becomes necessary to maintain different types of operating systems on a single machine. With DaaS, they can conduct quality tests and accelerate this process, without having to purchase a large number of devices.

Organizations that deal with mobile and remote workers can use DaaS, to improve productivity, while enhancing data security. Employees no longer find their location to be a hindrance for work, as they can use any device to access all their files.

DaaS gives you the scalability and flexibility to remain competitive in the market. It gives your business the option to improve the efficiency of operations while ensuring you have the time to focus on improving essential services!