Debunking 5 myths about edge computing

By Benjamin Brillat, Distinguished Engineer at Kyndryl

Edge computing, a distributed computing framework that moves a computer’s data storage and processing closer to the source of the data, such as users and devices, is helping many businesses improve their operations. management and use of physical assets.

In fact, the global edge computing market is expected to grow to $16.5 billion by 2030, up from $11.2 billion in 2022, according to a new report by Grand View Research.

However, the rise of edge computing comes with many common questions and misconceptions: Will edge computing replace the cloud? Is Edge similar to IoT? Does security become an issue as data moves away from the secure core in the cloud?

Here are five common misconceptions — and corresponding truths — to consider about edge computing.

Myth 1. Edge computing means the end of the cloud

Far from the end of the cloud, edge computing is the furthest — the ledge – of the cloud. By preprocessing data at the far edge of the network, edge computing reduces the amount of raw data sent to the cloud, which both optimizes bandwidth usage and reduces cloud processing costs. This proximity to data sources also reduces latency and enables real-time data processing, making it valuable for applications where low latency and fast decision making are critical – such as obtaining patient medical images and test results in real time, improving production quality control and maintenance, worker safety and preventing retail losses, etc.

Edge computing applies an optimized set of resources — compute, storage, network, and location — to the task at hand. Edge computing complements cloud technologies by bringing computing power to the edge of the network, closer to where the data is created, and keeping it compliant with regulatory requirements, while only sending data Cloud for processing for more insights. Edge computing provides enhanced security with new security frameworks being implemented, such as zero-trust network access.

Legend 2. Edge computing disrupts the convergence of IT and OT

The rise of edge computing is playing a key role in bringing together the worlds of information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT), driven by an industry undergoing technical transformation. number. IT, the systems that manage information and data, from software to hardware, can now interact with OT, the machines and systems that manage them. Edge computing acts as a bridge between the IT and OT worlds, facilitating seamless integration and communication between these traditionally disparate regions. With edge computing, data from OT devices can be efficiently collected, preprocessed, and forwarded to cloud-based IT systems for long-term analysis, storage, and insights. long. In addition, edge computing powers the use of intelligent technologies such as AI algorithms and machine learning to analyze data in real time, delivering more predictability and intelligence at the edge.

Myth 3. Edge computing is only suitable for industrial use cases such as manufacturing, energy, mining, and transportation

Edge has been around for decades. Its wide adoption has increased dramatically in recent years due to technological advancements such as 5G, hardware capabilities, the growth of IoT, mobile devices, and real-time processing. But edge computing will benefit many industries. Take retail as an example. Edge computing enables brands to perform asset tracking and supply chain optimization. With many industries facing staffing shortages today, stores can now set up cashierless payment methods, such as mobile self-pay (Apple Pay). , Google Pay, etc.). Customers have a better user experience by being able to make purchases without having to wait in long checkout lines. With access to (nearly) real-time data, retailers can offer more personalized promotions to their customers, which not only increases sales but also increase sales per square foot.

Other industries such as government, healthcare, and financial services are also driving innovation with edge computing. For example, edge computing can help address data compliance requirements for insurance companies, banks, and other financial institutions by bringing customer-facing applications and databases to the forefront. on-site, while in the hospital, edge computing enables better management of patient data.

Legend 4. Edge computing and IoT mean the same

While both technologies work to collect data, edge and IoT are not the same thing. In edge computing, data processing is done locally, while in IoT devices, data is sent to the cloud for data analysis. IoT devices must be internet enabled to work properly. For edge devices, this feature is optional.

IoT devices have little need for data processing, so they’re best suited for simple tasks — like the smart speakers and thermostats we use at home. In contrast, edge devices run complex operating systems and they can support a wide range of data processing capabilities – think autonomous vehicles and enable robotic-assisted surgery. Each IoT device can only perform a specific function (one-way communication), while a single edge device can handle multiple functions (two-way communication).

Myth 5. Edge computing requires a fast mobile network connection

One of the benefits of edge computing is that you don’t always need to be connected. By processing data locally, the amount of data sent can be significantly reduced, requiring less bandwidth or connections, and reducing costs. This makes edge computing well-suited for use cases in remote areas or situations with limited connectivity. Other common use cases for always-on connectionless edge computing include autonomous vehicles, healthcare devices, and surveillance/security cameras.