What is edge computing?
Edge computing is a distributed computing architecture. Edge computing allows data to be processed by a device, or by a local edge server, preventing the need for data to be transmitted back to a remote data centre. The edge can come in various forms, but is always located closest to a user’s device.
Why is it important?
It’s going to make everything faster! The purpose of edge computing is ultimately to reduce latency – the time it takes for data to get from A to B. Today, information can be processed extremely quickly; we are able to share data and files in a matter of minutes, if not seconds. But we as consumers are becoming more impatient and as we continue to generate and share more data than ever before, edge computing will be key to meeting our data needs.
Why should I care about it?
As more data is generated, edge computing will eliminate latency and network lag for many applications. Take a smart city environment where cars, traffic lights, and even street lights are connected. To ensure data is being sent from one device to another in real-time (with no lag or latency), edge computing will need to process the data locally. Without edge computing, data transmission may be delayed and, in the context of smart cities, could have a significant impact on consumer lives.
Ultimately, edge computing will ensure we experience each application as it was intended: without network lag, delays or interruptions.
Who’s talking about it?
Wireless R&D company, InterDigital, is involved in EU-funded 5G-CORAL project, which leverages edge computing to meet the low latency and high data rates required for future 5G networks. 5G-CORAL trials have demonstrated how edge computing capabilities can facilitate applications such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR).
Useful links:
What is edge computing? https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2018/5/7/17327584/edge-computing-cloud-google-microsoft-apple-amazon
Edge Computing, Goldman Sachs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDvMkgEoHxQ
MWC19: Edge Computing Interview https://www.interdigital.com/videos/mwc19-edge-computing-interview
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