SDSU unveils an IoT- and AI-powered crop monitoring system with built-in cybersecurity, enabling smarter, safer, and more sustainable farming.
South Dakota State University (SDSU) has introduced a crop monitoring system that blends Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and robust cybersecurity, promising to transform modern agriculture. The system is designed to help farmers boost yields, reduce input costs, and safeguard their data in an increasingly connected world. At its core, the system uses a dense network of sensors and biosensors to collect real-time data on soil temperature, humidity, nutrient levels, pest activity, and disease threats. This data is processed using AI to deliver actionable insights that support precision farming—enabling timely and targeted decisions in irrigation, fertilization, and pest management.
The result is enhanced productivity, reduced waste, and more sustainable practices tailored to the specific needs of each field. What sets solution apart is its end-to-end cybersecurity integration. Unlike many existing IoT systems that rely on centralized infrastructure for protection, SDSU researchers, led by Professor Lin Wei and Ph.D. student Manish Shrestha, have implemented data encryption and quantum-resistant cryptographic protocols directly on small edge devices. This approach ensures that sensitive agricultural data is secured at the source, making it feasible for use even in remote farming environments with limited cloud access. By eliminating the need for bulky servers and reducing exposure to cyber threats, the system provides a safer, more scalable solution for the digital future of farming.
The team plans to expand the system’s capabilities by introducing solar-powered batteries and improving data processing speeds, extending operational time and enhancing sustainability. As the agricultural sector becomes increasingly data-driven, SDSU’s innovation not only supports farmers in maximizing their efficiency and profitability but also highlights the growing need for integrated cybersecurity in agtech solutions. With this system, SDSU sets a new benchmark for secure, intelligent farming—offering a glimpse into a high-tech agricultural future that’s as protected as it is productive.
