SMART is an acronym that stands for "Self-Monitoring Analysis And Reporting Technology." It originally (and still does) refer to software that protects and prevents errors in hard drives. 

 

In essence, SMART software autonomously checks the health of the hard drives on computer systems by monitoring them and analysing collected data. If something requires your attention, the system will let you know. In most cases though, this software will intervene autonomously.  

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Today, however, the more popular conception of SMART technology refers to e.g. smart devices and smart buildings, which in turn inevitably relates to IoT or Internet of Things.  

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NEXT: What is IoT, Internet of Things?