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 several semiconductor manufacturers, including Espressif, Infineon, u-blox, Realtek, and Telit Cinterion. Qualified modules are available through the AWS Partner Device Catalog and are pre-configured for AWS IoT Core. Integration into existing hardware is done via a serial interface.
For companies looking to quickly make their products cloud-ready, ExpressLink eliminates one of the most challenging hurdles: implementing secure cloud communication on embedded systems.
Core Features
- Pre-Certified Modules: Hardware modules with integrated AWS connectivity from multiple manufacturers
- AT Command Interface: Simple serial communication with the host processor
- Integrated Security: TLS, X.509 certificates, and secure cryptographic processing on the module
- Fleet Health Monitoring: Monitoring connection status and managing security updates at scale
- Multi-Vendor Ecosystem: Modules from Espressif, Infineon, u-blox, Realtek, Telit Cinterion, and others
Typical 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 built significantly faster, since the module handles all cloud connectivity, allowing developers to focus on core functionality.
Secure Industrial Connectivity: Industrial controllers and sensors are connected to the cloud via ExpressLink modules. The integrated security supports industrial requirements without additional certification effort for the cloud connectivity itself.
Benefits
- No cloud connectivity development needed on the host processor
- Pre-certified security reduces time-to-market
- Simple integration via serial interface, even on resource-constrained microcontrollers
- Choice of multiple module manufacturers and connectivity types
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 such as Espressif, Infineon, u-blox, Realtek, and Telit Cinterion 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 suits simple devices, while Greengrass suits powerful edge computers.
What does AWS IoT ExpressLink cost?
Module costs are set by the respective manufacturer and vary by module and connectivity type (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular). AWS itself does not charge additional fees for ExpressLink; standard AWS IoT Core messaging costs still apply.
How is it integrated into existing hardware?
ExpressLink modules connect to the host processor via a serial interface (UART) and are controlled with simple AT commands. No TLS or MQTT implementation is needed on the host, which also allows resource-constrained microcontrollers to connect.
Note: All product information on this page has been compiled with care, but is provided without guarantee and may be outdated or incomplete. Cloud services evolve rapidly — features, pricing, SLAs, and availability change frequently. Authoritative and up-to-date information can only be found on the official product page of AWS (official documentation). This page does not represent an offer by AWS.