Edge Computing: When Should You Deploy It

Edge Computing is complementary to Cloud Computing. However, many organizations are still in a dilemma if they need Edge Computing or is it’s too soon to embrace the technology. To make an informed decision on Cloud Computing, you firstly need to introspect why you need Edge Computing. Is it just because it’s popular? You should understand the elements of the technology and then consider whether you need it anytime soon!

In this article, we are going to discuss three crucial factors that will tell you whether you need to switch to Edge Computing. Read On!

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Edge Computing Is Not Strategic but Tactical

Edge computing is all about reducing the latency in the process. It basically assists in bringing data and its processing nearer to the end points. Edge computing thinks on the basis of consumption and tries to save data loss during transmission. Therefore, it can boost the performance of the entire system. Again, Edge Computing helps you to quickly react to critical situations rather than referring to the central process for the solution.

Though Edge Computing helps in reducing latency in all kinds of systems, it is majorly used in areas where data processing is remotely done. E.g.: – IoT devices

Edge Computing Is a Layered Approach

Edge Computing does not mean to break the system into different parts and put them at the end. It’s practicing a layered approach, where each component is connected with each other and plays a significant role to quickly process data.

The data is temporarily saved at the end and eventually passed to a centralized processing at regular intervals. Hence, the centrally located data becomes the single point of contact.

Edge Computing Is Used for Special Cases

Experts say that edge computing should only be used if you have specific needs. Therefore, we recommend not to deploy Edge Computing if there is no specific requirement for it.

Edge Computing is used to solve specialized issues. There are many organizations worldwide who may think of adopting Edge Computing just because the tech press has mentioned it quite a few times. However, such decisions will just add up cost and risk for organizations.

Can Edge Computing Replace Cloud Computing?

The answer is NO. IT organizations are confused because of a lot of misleading information available. But experts have been loud and clear that Cloud and Edge Computing are two different technologies that can’t replace each other. Edge replacing Cloud is like PCs replacing datacenter. You can always build Edge Computing-oriented apps that quickly react to various situations like responding fast to alerts in critical situations. But you cannot shift or store all your data to the end points for better computing. It will leave you with an unsecured and uncontrollable mess.

Always remember that Edge Computing is another specific approach like Cloud Computing. Moreover, they can live together in the same system. The only difference is that Cloud Computing is a broader concept that also includes other technologies whereas Edge Computing is a layered approach that addresses specific needs. It’s tactical and not strategic like Cloud Computing.