Which of the four generations of IoT evolution is what people normally mean by the phrase "the Internet of Things"?

Answer

Sensor and actuator technology — single-purpose devices, exclusively wireless, deployed as part of larger systems

Options - A. Sensor and actuator technology — single-purpose devices, exclusively wireless, deployed as part of larger systems - B. Information technology — PCs, servers, routers and firewalls bought by enterprise IT - C. Operational technology — embedded IT in machinery and process control, bought by enterprise OT staff - D. Personal technology — smartphones, tablets and eBook readers bought by consumers Why - A. Correct. The fourth generation is the one the term names: single-purpose, wireless, bought by consumers and by IT and OT alike. - B. The first generation, and the one that predates the phrase entirely. - C. The second generation. SCADA and medical machinery are embedded IT, but they are not what the term picks out. - D. The third generation. Phones and tablets are connected devices with users looking at them, which is precisely what the fourth generation is not.

Stallings & Brown 5e ch13 §13.4–13.5