The current digital landscape keeps on surprising every now and then; the current scenario keeps gushing about edge computing. With concepts such as data generation increasing at a fantastic pace, sometimes meeting the unrealistic demands of real-time apps hits extremely hard. As a solution, time to get acquainted with edge computing. As the name implies, the following post focuses on what edge computing is, what its core principles are, and, of course, here you will also be enlightened with some use cases of edge computing.
Being one of the most uncanny cutting-edge technologies, edge computing has succeeded in gathering and processing data within the current digital ecosystems.
What is Edge Computing?
The term edge computing mainly refers to an unusual practice of processing data, where the data is successfully gathered and generated; now there is no need to keep sending it to the central location for processing. So in simple words, the data is successfully processed and that too within real time. And do you know what the best part here is? There is no need to use a high-speed internet connection.
In 2010, Eric Schmidt, former Google chairman, said - Back in 2003, around 5 exabytes of information was created, and now these numbers are created at a span of every one or two days. The scenario now is, these numbers keep staggering and more than 400+ million terabytes of information is generated. Imagine analysing all the data in real-time, how would the situation be like?
Traditional methods, such as cloud computing, were pretty much in vogue till now. However, during that time, data was successfully sent to a central cloud for conducting proper analysis, which led to a slight delay or latency, which created further issues. Fortunately, now the tables have completely turned, and edge computing no longer relies on distant data centres, which means data is processed at the same time when it is created, whether they are developed on local devices or even nearby edge servers.
The following approach ensures a wide range of benefits, some of which are reduced latency and speed up response times. You see, data now no longer requires long-distance and delayed processing. Businesses are finding more and more ways to manage, analyse and process data in the most efficient manner, and nothing works wonders than considering edge computing.
However, it doesn’t mean cloud computing has lost its charm; both concepts are pivotal and enable businesses, irrespective of their sizes and industry verticals, to store and process large volumes of data. And what is the most amazing aspect here? You no longer require significant on-premise infrastructure. However, there is a slight difference here? Cloud computing offers centralised, highly scalable solutions, where businesses can store and process large volumes of data and with edge computing, data processing is thoroughly decentralised, ensuring the computation is a step closer to the data source. No wonder with edge computing, latency is reduced and response times are increased.
So, in simple words, cloud computing is basically offering the best possible computing services. The concept successfully centralises resources as well as services, leading to unparalleled scalability and cost efficiency. In short, no need for on-premise infrastructure.
Whereas Edge computing, on the other hand, is all about decentralising data processing. And this is done by simply finding the ultimate source of data generation. As a result, latency is reduced. Now, what does this mean, you may ask? Well, you can make quick and real-time decisions, and moreover, the bandwidth usage is minimised. If you are dealing with autonomous vehicles, industrial automation or any other kind of IoT app, then this is it; you no longer have to think ahead of edge computing.
Benefits of Edge Computing
Edge computing offers a plethora of benefits, which we will discuss further below.
Reduced Latency
Since here the data is processed closer to the source, this means latency is automatically decreased. Yes, one no longer has to send large amounts of data to centralised cloud servers for processing. If you take a look pretty carefully, this one turns out to be one of the most significant benefits to take into account. The localised data processing enables real-time data analysis, faster response times, which is extremely important for any successful app or else you are completely doomed.
Higher Data Security
Edge computing lessens the amount of data which has to travel over a network, which is a given or a known fact! Now, this aspect is pretty beneficial from the security perspective as well. Now, when the data is distributed on multiple user devices, in case the data is breached in one place, you have other places as backup.
Speaking further about security and privacy, with less and fewer data being uploaded, which means users are supposed to have greater control since the data is processed on the device.
Is it possible for the Amazon Echo speaker to talk about the weather forecast without the data being sent to a central Amazon server? Well maybe. I mean, no company is willing to give away vice-like grip, especially when we are talking about user data. With the evolution of edge computing, more options can be expected in no time.
Real-time Data Analytics
Edge computing ensures conducting data analysis in real-time. It is possible to gain instant insights, and you no longer have to keep sending data back and forth between the central cloud. This definitely boosts overall efficiency, and of course, the overall life of the equipment is increased.
Absolute Cost-Effective Approach
I am pretty sure you won’t agree with me about this in the first place, but yes, if you take a look at the bigger picture, you will understand that considering edge computing is an extremely cost-effective approach. Wondering how?
- Reduce bandwidth
- Edge device solutions can be completely replaced with data centres
- Reduce data storage requirements
However, the initial installation and maintenance might seem a bit expensive, but if you are strongly willing to retrofit the current data centres, you can successfully make the most of edge computing capabilities.
Enhance Scalability
The next benefit offered by edge computing is enhanced scalability and flexibility. Yes, this benefit is extremely useful, especially in today’s ever-evolving times. Fortunately, edge computing ensures seamless handling of data from a wide range of devices. So what happens here, you won’t find any issues such as network congestion or latency.
It may quite interest to you to know that edge computing works wonders for IoT apps such as smart homes and factory equipment.
Industries Preferring Edge Computing
Automotive Industry
One of the top industries considering or making the most of edge computing is the automotive industry. Well, you see, the tech has the potential to enhance a plethora of vehicles’ functionality.
- Vehicle Monitoring in Real-time - Edge computing allows automotive manufacturers to capture as well as successfully analyse data from different vehicle sensors within real-time, which calls for high proactive maintenance and enhanced performance. With the help of edge computing, it is possible to process data from engine sensors. By doing so, it is possible to watch out for specific kinds of issues, and you can send notifications in time. By doing so, repairs are done on time, and there is no scope for any breakdowns.
- Autonomous Driving - Have you wondered what happens when you are sitting in an autonomous vehicle? Lots and lots of data are collected, be it in regards to the traffic signals, pedestrians, what the street signs say, and more. By doing so, the vehicle automatically receives important alerts from time to time. This is how unwanted mishaps or accidents can be avoided. By incorporating edge computing in automotive vehicles, you are technically bringing cloud computing services to enable you to make split-second decisions.
- Intelligent Traffic Management - The Next aspect of edge computing in the automotive industry is it ensures intelligent traffic management. The tech can successfully use all the traffic patterns and optimise routes accordingly. Smart algorithms can process as well as analyse data locally. Here, drivers can receive real-time traffic information and be suggested relevant alternate routes to get rid of any unwanted congestion and safety hazards. This enhances traffic flow and reduces travel time for regular commutes.
Healthcare Industry
Edge computing offers services which has the potential to transform the entire healthcare industry. Now you know the secret behind faster, efficient and personalised care?
- Remote Patient Monitoring - With the help of edge computing, it is possible to keep a hawk eye on the valuable patients remotely. By considering all the vital signs and health data, using wearable sensors, connected medical devices, and even medical professionals can respond quickly in case there is any change in the patient’s overall condition. Doctors can respond accurately and quickly in case of any kind of changes in the ongoing situation.
- Telemedicine and Telehealth - The next aspect to consider here is the potential of edge computing and way it can enhance telemedicine services by processing data closer to the source. This definitely reduces latency. Physicians nowadays offer remote care by referring to medical images and video consultations.
- Emergency Response Systems - Edge computing even offers relevant assistance to emergency response systems. What they do exactly is process data from wearable devices or smart sensors in real time. This enables quicker detection of the disease and quicker solutions.
Manufacturing Industry
With the help of edge computing, even the manufacturing industry has gained operational agility. This has certainly led to reduced cost and a significant increase in overall productivity and efficiency.
- Predictive Maintenance - With the help of edge computing, manufacturers can successfully implement real-time monitoring by collecting all the relevant data and processes. In simple words, nothing can stop you from predicting anomalies and potential failures right from the beginning. Moreover, several unplanned downtimes can be avoided, and an increase in productivity can occur.
- Quality Control and Inspection - Edge computing is considered to perform analysis in real-time. So it is possible to make sure that the product quality isn’t compromised, and it is possible to identify defects or deviations from set standards. Some high-speed cameras and sensors can capture images or measure parameters at high frequencies. No wonder that with edge computing, the overall analysis is pretty fast, and decision-making turns out to be extremely accurate.
- Intralogistics Optimisation - Edge computing can be considered to successfully optimise inventory management and material flow. By successfully deploying edge devices within warehouses and distribution centres, you can do lots of wonders. So this is how manufacturers, with the help of edge computing, can fulfil their orders and increase their ability to adapt to these ever-evolving cutting-edge technologies.
Conclusion
So that’s all for now! Edge computing works wonders among relevant industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, energy, autonomous vehicles, transportation, traffic management and a lot more.
I hope you did find the following post worth taking into account. In case you have any kind of doubts or queries, feel free to mention them in the comment section below. Edge computing is a doable job, just make sure you choose a relevant tech partner who is absolutely knowledgeable and highly experienced.
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