Balena

Balena is a brand that offers a suite of open-source software and cloud services for managing fleets of Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The core of Balena's offering is its container-based operating system, BalenaOS, which is designed to run on a wide variety of embedded Linux devices. BalenaOS is a minimal, immutable operating system that is optimized for deploying and managing containerized applications.

The Balena platform enables developers to build, deploy, and manage applications on remote devices without needing to SSH into each individual device. This is achieved through a cloud-based dashboard and a command-line interface (CLI). Developers can package their applications into Docker containers, push them to the Balena cloud, and then deploy those containers to their chosen devices. Updates can be deployed over-the-air (OTA), ensuring that devices remain up-to-date and secure.

Balena's approach simplifies the complexities of IoT device management, making it easier for businesses and individuals to scale their connected projects. The open-source nature of BalenaOS and its associated tools fosters community involvement and allows for customization. The platform supports a broad range of hardware, including popular single-board computers like the Raspberry Pi, as well as industrial-grade devices. This flexibility makes Balena a popular choice for a diverse range of IoT applications, from smart home devices to industrial automation and digital signage.