The Concept
All computing networks normally have a tendency to expand. This expansion though allows for greater use cases and population, it comes at the cost of speed and bandwidth, especially if the computing nodes are far and few.
Edge Computing ameliorates this problem to a great extent, by introducing several sub-autonomous processing stations near the ‘edge’ or servicing nodes of the network. For example, local IoT devices are given some independence in reacting to local inputs instead of transmission over the entire internet to a central processing station.
What is a Network Edge ?
In simple terms a network edge is where a device connects to the Internet. Technically, it may be the processor in your computer or chip in IoT device. Or it may be the network router or local edge server. It is far from an origin server or a cloud server but contiguous with the user.
Components
- Edge Devices: These include smart cameras, thermometers, robots, drones, vibration sensors and other IoT devices.
- Gateways: These are small servers that perform essential network functions like wireless connectivity and firewall protection. Processing and transmission of device data can also be done.
- Processors: These include several Central Processing Units (CPUs) and Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) that determine the speed of the Edge Network
- Nodes: These are the junction points or the points of significance in a Network
- Routers: They connect multiple networks or several LANs to a WAN or to the internet
- Clusters/Servers: They are the brains of the network and most crucial part of the edge network
- Switches: Allow interconnections between devices or networks
Use cases of Edge Computing
- For Branch Offices: By providing semi-autonomous processing capability at local offices, interface to local conditions is enhanced at the same time reducing the load on the main centre.
- For Manufacturing: Sensors on factory floors can be used to monitor routine maintenance issues and malfunctions. By adding some processing ability to these sensors, automatic handling can be done to save time.
- For Energy Management: Turning-off network segments not in current use, can save electricity and energy resources. Smart load management switches can off-load localities and direct energy to high power applications and thus lead to efficient usage.
- For Farming: Using smart sensors and drones to analyse moisture content and temperature, keen adjustments can be made for fields over vast areas.
- For Retail: Local inventory monitoring and future purchase prediction can help local retailer make informed decisions.
- For Healthcare: Smart pacemakers that can transmit real-time data and nudge cardiovascular activity are an awe-striking example of edge technology. Healthcare professionals can similarly monitor the activity of IoT devices meant for other systems.
- For Autonomous Vehicles: The margin for error or lag is very small for autonomous vehicles. Quick adjustments are needed for safety of passengers and pedestrians alike. Fast processors on such cars are very important.
Advantages of Edge Computing
- More Efficient Operations: Due to decentralisation, load on main office is reduced. Latency on decisions is reduced which improves efficiency. Interface also becomes more local specific.
- Improved Workplace Safety: Semi-autonomous smart monitors are better for floor safety. Quick local reactions can prevent mishaps. Predictive Analysis that is region specific is more likely to avert disasters.
- Functionality in far-flung areas: The farther the user-points are, the greater is the latency in response. Edge Computing provides smaller resources for processing near the user thus enhancing performance.
- Reduced IT costs: Setting up of smart systems near the end-user, reduces transmission costs. It also reduces maintenance costs of heavy central computing systems by reducing their load
- Improving Employee Productivity: Due to the high responsivity of Edge Devices, employee requests are handled much faster. They are thus able to serve their customers more efficiently.
- Greater Security: By localising transmission and databases, security threats are also minimised. The entire Network won’t be compromised.
Afterword
Edge Computing helps you to unlock the potential of data collected at far-off nodes without the accrual of hefty transmission costs. You multiply business opportunities and provide customers with faster, more reliable services. Network Security is also no longer dependent on a single node – threats can be pin-pointed to semi-autonomous web-chains. In conclusion, it won’t be too hard to come to terms with the fact that Edge Computing is a natural outcome and saviour to the problem of an ever expanding network with the burgeoning demands of the user.
Image Sourced from Freepik