What is AWS IoT ExpressLink?
AWS IoT ExpressLink reduces the complexity of cloud connectivity to a minimum: a pre-certified hardware module handles all connectivity logic. Embedded developers communicate with the module via simple AT commands, while it takes care of TLS, certificates, and MQTT.
The modules are offered by established semiconductor manufacturers like Espressif, Infineon, and u-blox. They are pre-configured for AWS IoT Core and already contain the necessary security certificates. Integration into existing hardware is done via a serial interface.
For companies looking to quickly make their products cloud-ready, ExpressLink eliminates the most challenging hurdle: implementing secure cloud communication on embedded systems.
Core Features
- Pre-Certified Modules: Hardware modules with integrated AWS connectivity
- AT Command Interface: Simple serial communication with the host processor
- Integrated Security: TLS 1.2, X.509 certificates, and secure element
- OTA Updates: Over-the-air updates for the module itself
- Multi-Vendor Ecosystem: Modules from Espressif, Infineon, u-blox, and others
Common Use Cases
Product Connectivity: Existing products become cloud-ready by adding an ExpressLink module. Minimal changes to the existing design: just a serial connection and a few AT commands in the firmware.
Rapid Prototyping: Prototypes for IoT products are created in days instead of months. The module handles the entire cloud infrastructure, allowing developers to focus on core functionality.
Secure Industrial Connectivity: Industrial controllers and sensors are securely connected to the cloud via ExpressLink modules. The integrated security meets industrial requirements without additional certification effort.
Benefits
- No cloud connectivity development needed on the host processor
- Pre-certified security reduces time-to-market
- Simple integration via serial interface
- Regular security updates from the module manufacturer
Integration with innFactory
As an AWS reseller, innFactory supports you with AWS IoT ExpressLink: hardware evaluation, module selection, firmware integration, and connection to IoT Core for end-to-end IoT solutions.
Typical Use Cases
Frequently Asked Questions
What is AWS IoT ExpressLink?
AWS IoT ExpressLink is a specification for hardware modules that establish a secure connection to AWS IoT Core. Manufacturers like Espressif, Infineon, and u-blox offer ExpressLink modules. The modules handle TLS encryption, authentication, and MQTT communication, so no cloud connectivity code is needed on the host processor.
How does ExpressLink differ from IoT Greengrass?
ExpressLink is a hardware module for simple cloud connectivity: sending sensor data and receiving commands. Greengrass is a software runtime for local data processing and ML inference at the edge. ExpressLink is for simple devices, Greengrass is for powerful edge computers.
What does AWS IoT ExpressLink cost?
Module costs depend on the manufacturer and typically range from 10 to 30 USD per module. There are no additional AWS fees for ExpressLink. The usual IoT Core messaging costs still apply.