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The architecture of the IIoT Platform is built around a top-level database management system (DBMS) that provides a unified data representation for all types of equipment. It rests on universal principles that abstract away the specifics of individual devices, platforms, and protocols.

## Architecture layers

Two layers form the core of the data architecture: the layer that ingests telemetry from equipment, and the abstract layer that normalizes it into a single representation.

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## Cross-cutting capabilities

Several capabilities span the entire platform rather than belonging to a single layer:

- A [unified access interface](/en/platform/v3/rest-api) exposes the normalized data through a single API.
- [Data security mechanisms](/en/platform/v3/security/data-security) protect telemetry in transit and at rest.
- [Scalability](/en/platform/v3/architecture/scalability) lets the system grow from a handful of devices to large distributed deployments.
- [Integration with diverse equipment](/en/platform/v3/equipment/equipment-types) brings devices of different types into a common model.
- [Backup and restore](/en/platform/v3/operations/backup-and-restore) safeguards stored data against loss.

## What the architecture provides

The top-level DBMS of the platform provides:

- A unified data representation for all types of equipment.
- Universal protection, access, and scaling mechanisms.
- Flexibility and adaptability to new technologies and requirements.

This framework can be used in any environment, from small IoT devices to large distributed systems.