The Advantages & Practical Examples Of Edge Computing

Edge computing is a new exciting approach to network architecture that helps businesses break the restrictions imposed by conventional cloud-based networks. Cloud computing plays a crucial role in modern network architecture undoubtedly; however, the possibilities offered by IoT gadgets, capable of processing the data they collect closer to the source, are compelling companies to reconsider their approach to IT infrastructure. 

Several companies are certainly wondering how edge computing varies from more conventional data processing solutions and how it could advantage their business. The fundamental principles behind edge computing are somewhat simple, but this new model's considerable benefits to network architecture are not always so evident. Whether they're attempting to break into the IoT market or discover improved ways to deliver content services, businesses need to know the benefits offered by edge computing. 

What is Edge Computing?

Edge computing moves the processing of information closer to the source, creating it and away from the cloud to enhance systems. 

Conventional cloud computing networks are overly centralized with accumulated data on the outer edge & transmitted back to the central servers for processing. This architecture concluded that most of the gadgets placed near the edge missed the computational power & storage capacity to assess or process the data they gathered. Although more gadgets became capable of connecting to networks over WiFi and cellular, their functionality was somewhat confined by their hardware capabilities. 

Thanks to the miniaturization of processing & storage technology that all that has altered in recent years. Today's IoT devices are relatively robust, capable of assembling, storing, and processing more information than ever before. This has unlocked new opportunities for businesses to enhance their networks & change more processing functions near to where data is collected at the network edge, where it can be evaluated and implemented in real-time much closer to potential users. 

Top 5 Advantages of Edge Computing

1. Speed

Speed is a vital factor for several companies. For example, the monetary sector's dependence on high-frequency trading algorithms and a slowdown of milliseconds can have expensive repercussions. Similarly, in healthcare, a downturn in a fraction of seconds can be a matter of life or death. 

The essential benefit of edge computing is its ability to boost network performance by preventing latency. It's difficult to remember that data doesn't travel at lightning speed; it's tied by the laws of physics like everything else. Current commercial fiber-optic tech enables data to travel at ⅔ the speed of light, traveling from east to west in about 21 milliseconds. While that sounds rapid, it fails to consider the complete data being transmitted. Digital traffic jams are ensured, with the world expected to produce up to 44 zettabytes of data in 2020. 

2. Security 

The multiplication of IoT edge computing gadgets boosts the overall attack surface for networks; it even offers some essential security benefits. Conventional cloud computing architecture is naturally centralized, making it primarily vulnerable to DDoS - distributed denial of service attacks & power outages. 

Edge computing allocates processing, storage, and uses across a broad range of gadgets & data centers, making it hard for any single interruption to take down the network. A significant concern about IoT edge computing gadgets is that they could be used as an entry point for cyberattacks, enabling malware or other intrusions to taint a network from one weak point. 

The distributed nature of edge computing simplifies to apply security protocols that can seal off compromised parts without shutting down the whole network. 

3. Scalability 

As businesses proliferate, they cannot always forecast their infrastructure needs, and developing a dedicated data center is a costly proposition. Fortunately, the advancement of cloud-based tech and edge computing has made it simpler for companies to scale their operations. 

Edge computing provides a less costly route to scalability, enabling companies to grow their computing capacity through a blend of IoT gadgets & edge data centers.

4. Versatility

The scalability of edge computing makes it unbelievably versatile. By collaborating with local edge data centers, businesses can easily target desirable markets without investing in costly infrastructure expansion. 

Edge data centers permit them to service end-users efficiently with less latency or physical distance. 

Edge computing also empowers IoT gadgets to collect unusual amounts of actionable data. Instead of waiting for people to log in with gadgets and communicate with main cloud servers, edge commuting devices are always on, connected, and producing data for future analysis. 

5. Reliability

Considering the security benefits of edge computing, it can be said that it is more reliable. With edge data centers and IoT edge computing devices placed near to end-users, there is less chance of a network issue in a remote location impacting local users. Despite the data center outage, IoT edge computing gadgets will resume functioning effectively because they tackle processing functions natively.

Due to processing data nearby the source & prioritizing traffic, edge computing lessens the amount of data flowing to and fro the main network, leading to reduced latency and quick overall speed. 

Examples of Edge Computing

• In oil and gas manufacturing, IoT sensors are critical to supervising the security aspect. In the case of e equipment failure or maintenance needs that require prompt attention, there's an advantage of using edge computing that enables data to be evaluated and reported on in real-time. 

• Autonomous vehicles function with edge computing in several ways to prevent latency and avoid bandwidth problems that would be present if those vehicles counted on the cloud for all functions. 

• Edge computing can help resolve digital healthcare issues that make edge computing a focus for several healthcare organizations. 

• Telecommunication firms like Verizon are also experimenting with edge computing and seeing positive outcomes. 

The Future of Edge Computing 

Moving data processing to the network's edge can help businesses benefit from the increasing number of IoT edge devices, enhance network speeds, and improve user experiences. Edge computing offers plenty of advantages over conventional forms of network architecture and will surely continue playing a significant role for businesses moving forward. With more web-connected devices emerging in the market, companies will likely turn their faces to edge computing to explore unique possibilities.

Author Bio:

Harnil Oza is CEO of Hyperlink InfoSystem, one of the leading app development companies in New York and India, having a team of the best app developers who deliver the best mobile solutions mainly on Android and iOS platforms. He regularly contributes his knowledge on leading blogging sites like top app development companies.