A Survey on the Applications of Cloud Computing in the Industrial Internet of Things

The convergence of cloud computing and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) has significantly transformed industrial operations, enabling intelligent, scalable, and efficient systems. This survey provides a comprehensive analysis of the role cloud computing plays in IIoT ecosystems, focusing on its architectural frameworks, service models, and application domains. By leveraging centralized, edge, and hybrid cloud architectures, IIoT systems achieve enhanced real-time processing capabilities, streamlined data management, and optimized resource allocation. Moreover, this study delves into integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in cloud platforms to facilitate predictive analytics, anomaly detection, and operational intelligence in IIoT environments. Security challenges, including secure device-to-cloud communication and privacy concerns, are addressed with innovative solutions like blockchain and AI-powered intrusion detection systems. Future trends, such as adopting 5G, serverless computing, and AI-driven adaptive services, are also discussed, offering a forward-looking perspective on this rapidly evolving domain. Finally, this survey contributes to a well-rounded understanding of cloud computing's multifaceted aspects and highlights its pivotal role in driving the next generation of industrial innovation and operational excellence.