Let's explore the different types of Edge Computing and their amazing applications in a real-world scenario

Edge computing is a type of data processing in which data is distributed throughout decentralised data centres, while some information is maintained locally, at the "edge." There's no need to ask a remote data centre for approval. Data can be deployed offline by local devices using less bandwidth usage.

Is this a way to move forward when we have the benefits of Cloud Computing? Will Edge Computing be able to make a mark in the industry?

Edge Computing- What is it?

Edge computing is a sort of distributed architecture wherein data processing takes place near to the data source, or at the system's "edge." This method eliminates the need to transfer data between the cloud and the device while ensuring consistent performance. Edge computing, in terms of infrastructure, is just a network of local data centres used for storage and processing. Simultaneously, the central data centre keeps an eye on things and learns a lot about how data is processed locally.

The term "edge" has its origins in network diagrams. In it, an "edge" is a location where traffic enters and exits the system. Its name reflects the fact that it is located at the diagram's margins.

Uses of Edge Computing

Although there are as many potential edge application cases there are users – everyone's setup will be unique – some sectors have been at the frontline of edge computing. Edge hardware is used by manufacturers and heavy industry to provide delay-intolerant applications, keeping computing power near to where it's needed for tasks like automated coordination of heavy gear on a manufacturing floor. Companies can also use the edge to incorporate IoT applications such as predictive maintenance adjacent to the machines. Agricultural customers, meantime, can employ edge computing as a data collecting layer for data from a variety of connected devices, such as soil and temperature sensors, combines & tractors, and so on.

Different forms of deployment will necessitate significantly different gear. For example, industrial users, for instance, will prioritise reliability and low latency, necessitating weather resistant edge nodes which can operate in the hostile environment of a factory floor, as well as dedicated communications networks (corporate 5G, dedicated Wi-Fi networks, or even wired connections). Environmental sensors, on the other hand, are likely to see both higher range and lower data requirements, therefore an LP-WAN connection, Sigfox, or the like maybe the best choice.

Why is it Popular?

Edge computing is becoming more popular for a variety of reasons:

• The use of mobile computers and "internet of things" devices is growing, as is the cost of hardware.
• The correct operation of Internet of Things devices necessitates a fast response time and a large amount of bandwidth.
• Cloud computing is a centralised method of computing. Massive amounts of raw data must be transmitted and processed, putting a strain on the network's bandwidth.
• Furthermore, the ongoing transfer of vast amounts of data back and forth is beyond realistic cost-effectiveness.
• Processing data on the spot and then transferring valuable information to the centre, on the other hand, is a significantly more efficient method.

Types Of Edge Computing

1. Device Edge

It is also known as a nano DC and comprises one or more microservers. It would be limited in processing power and would only have one or a few customizations. This segment's databases are unlikely to be installed on a rack. We should be able to operate without the use of refrigeration. They're also in locations that aren't normally associated with data centres. Warehouses, wind generators, and weather-resistant structures are examples. They're directly present near IoT sensors, so latency, bandwidth, and communication concerns aren't an issue. The disadvantage is that these little gadgets can only use a limited amount of power and have limited capabilities.

2. Cloud Edge

It primarily refers to huge data centres run by cloud providers like AWS, Azure etc. This might contain VMware Cloud on AWS as well as other cloud or service providers. The cloud's main characteristics are that it is centralised and that it operates at a large scale. The disadvantage is that infrastructure availability is extremely high as there is no assurance that network connection to sensors or processors at the edge will be available, and there will be a lot of latency. Internet activity both to and from the cloud is almost certainly costly.

3. Compute Edge

It's a modest data centre with anywhere from a few to a lot of server racks. They are frequently placed near or close to IoT equipment, and they may be required for local law enforcement purposes. The idea is that these data centres have standard servers installed on racks, as well as ventilation and other amenities. One benefit would be that network latency at the edges would be lower than in the cloud. As a result, network bandwidth should increase while remaining more efficient.