Edge Computing and Applications

[Oslo, Norway]

Edge computing is a distributed computing model that moves data storage and processing closer to the source of the data. This allows devices to process data locally, or on a nearby server, instead of sending it to a central data center.

Edge computing can improve performance, reduce latency, and provide faster insights by:

• Reducing data transmission: Only the most important data is sent to the central data center.
• Improving response times: Data is processed closer to the source, which reduces latency and improves response times.
• Reducing bandwidth requirements: Edge computing can reduce the amount of bandwidth needed by applications.

Edge computing allows devices in remote locations to process data at the "edge" of the network, either by the device or a local server. And when data needs to be processed in the central datacenter, only the most important data is transmitted, thereby minimizing latency. Edge computing can be deployed in different ways, including private edge, network edge, public edge, and gateway edge. 

Edge computing is useful for applications that require real-time data processing and analysis, such as in smart cities, self-driving cars, and automated industries. 

Some examples of how edge computing can be used include:

• Retail: Edge computing can help improve inventory accuracy, supply chain efficiency, and product development. It can also help analyze customer behavior in real-time to improve the shopping experience.
• Industrial: Edge computing can help integrate digital and physical technologies to improve manufacturing. For example, it can be used to improve weld inspections and quality control.

Please refer to the following for more information:

• Wikipedia: Edge Computing

5G and edge computing are complementary technologies that work together to improve application performance. 5G increases the speed at which data can be transferred, while edge computing shortens the distance that data must travel before being processed. This symbiotic relationship enables instantaneous processing of large amounts of data. Simply put, the edge enhances the performance of 5G. 

Here are some of the benefits of combining 5G with edge computing:

• Faster apps: 5G and edge computing enable faster, more performant apps and experiences at scale.
• Improving the digital experience: 5G and edge computing can enhance the digital experience.
• Better data security: 5G and edge computing can support data security.
• Continuous operations: 5G and edge computing can enable continuous operations in various industries.
• Instant insights: 5G and edge computing can deliver insights that can be used to enhance your business, segment your audience, and customize your marketing.
• Optimized workflow: 5G and edge computing can instantly generate optimized workflows based on current facility conditions.
• Smart resource allocation: 5G and edge computing can support smart resource allocation to ensure that resources are directed to areas where they are most needed.

Some examples of applications that will benefit from 5G and edge computing include: AI real-time reasoning, cloud gaming, autonomous drones, and remote surgery. 

Edge computing is an IT architecture that moves computational tasks closer to the client's physical location. This creates a faster and lower-latency experience for the end user.

Some common edge devices include: cameras, sensors, servers, processors, switches, and routers.

Some key devices that shape the edge ecosystem include: IoT sensors, Smart cameras, Processors, and uCPE equipment.

Edge infrastructure, hardware, and edge services have requirements for:

• Scalability: Edge infrastructure must be able to scale to accommodate more connected devices and data traffic.
• Flexibility: Edge infrastructure should be able to integrate new edge nodes to meet new business needs.
• Low latency: Edge hardware should have low latency to process updates and data transactions quickly.
• Storage capacity: Edge hardware should have enough storage capacity to handle updates and data transactions.
• Connectivity: Switches and routers are essential to connect devices and ensure smooth communication.
• Real-time connection: Edge as a service supports real-time connection, automation, and decision-making.
• Gateway: An edge service acts as a gateway to all other services.