What is the primary function of a protocol adapter in IoT systems?

The primary function of a protocol adapter in IoT systems is to transform incoming sensor data to a common format. This is crucial because IoT devices often operate using different communication protocols or data formats. The protocol adapter serves as an intermediary that standardizes the various types of data received from different sensors or devices, enabling them to communicate effectively within the overall system.

By converting these heterogeneous data formats into a uniform structure, the protocol adapter allows for seamless integration and processing of data. This transformation is essential for ensuring that data from diverse sources can be understood and utilized by applications and analytics systems, which may rely on a consistent data model to make informed decisions and provide insights.

The other options, while relevant to IoT infrastructure, do not capture the primary purpose of a protocol adapter. User authentication relates more to security measures, historical data storage focuses on data retention and analysis, and report generation pertains to performance monitoring, none of which are the core function of transforming data formats.