Edge Computing: Processing at the Network Edge
Edge Computing: Processing at the Network Edge Edge computing brings data processing closer to where information is produced. Instead of sending every byte to a distant data center, devices at the edge can filter, summarize, or act on data locally. This reduces round trips, lowers latency, and can improve reliability when connections are imperfect. Latency and responsiveness improve, especially for control systems and user-facing apps. Bandwidth needs drop, saving network costs and reducing cloud load. Privacy benefits rise when sensitive data stays near source and only essentials move onward. Resilience grows, as basic work can continue even during short network outages. In practice, you see edge use across many sectors. A factory floor may run sensors through an edge gateway that detects anomalies and raises alerts instantly. In retail, cameras and sensors at the edge can flag events without sending full video streams upstream. Smart homes use routers or small devices to preprocess data before sending only useful results to the cloud. Edge AI, powered by compact GPUs or NPUs, can run models locally for quick decisions, with occasional updates from central systems. ...