What Is Edge Computing & Why Does it Matter?

In an edge computing model, data is processed close to the source. It doesn't need to travel up to a central location and back again. Instead, the work happens very close to (or even on) the device. 

Let's give a quick example. 

You own a refrigerator that can connect to the internet and send you a reminder to pick up eggs when the tray is empty. Every few minutes, that device weighs the egg cups to determine if the reminder should go out or not. 

In a traditional setup, the refrigerator would record each cup weight and send it to the cloud for long-term storage. In an edge computing model, it would record only empty cup alerts. 

Let's dig deeper and give you even more information about what an edge network is and what it can do.

What is edge computing?

The simplest edge computing definition sounds something like this: A connected device processes the data it generates close to the point of origin, not on the cloud or a faraway server. 

It's easiest to understand what edge computing is by understanding what it is not. 

In a traditional system, all monitoring data headed into the cloud or a corporate server for analysis and processing. The cloud or server stored applicable data and discarded unhelpful data. The device and the server were always in contact.

A system like this comes with plenty of drawbacks. Organisations could have far more data than their systems can handle. And processing time in faraway locations can lead to performance issues, such as jagged videos or lost alerts. 

Edge computing puts the processing very close to the point of origin. It eliminates that constant connection, and the processing happens quickly with few latency problems. Companies can focus on delivering a great experience rather than figuring out how to deal with mountains of data.

How does edge computing work? 

Everyone has a slightly different definition of edge computing. Most arguments concern where processing happens. But all experts agree that edge computing involves processing close to the point of origin. 

Tools used in edge computing include:

  • Wireless sensor networks 
  • Mobile devices
  • Local servers 

A connected device generates data. Those bytes are examined quickly, either on the device itself or via a technology or server close to the device. Only important parts head to the cloud or a central server. 

Why you should care about edge computing 

In the 1990s, the computer sitting on your desk created data. In the 2020s, your refrigerator, dryer, mobile device, car, and doorbell could all create data. This web of interconnected de