The Power of Edge Computing: Redefining How We Process Data

As our world becomes increasingly connected, data is being generated at unprecedented rates. Traditional cloud computing systems have struggled to keep up with this explosion of information, leading to issues with latency, bandwidth, and cost. The entrance of edge computing: a paradigm-shifting approach that brings data processing closer to the source, reducing network traffic and enabling faster, more efficient decision-making.

At its core, edge computing is about pushing computing resources – including processing power, storage, and analytics – as close as possible to where the data is being generated. This can take the form of small, purpose-built devices like sensors, cameras, or drones, or even larger-scale infrastructure like edge data centers or mobile cell towers.

One of the main benefits of edge computing is the ability to process data in near real-time, without relying on a central cloud-based system that may be located far away. This is especially important in industries like healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing, where split-second decisions can mean the difference between life and death, or between profitability and loss.

Another key advantage of edge computing is its ability to reduce bandwidth usage and associated costs. By processing data closer to the source, less data needs to be sent over the network to a central cloud system. This not only saves on data usage fees but can also help mitigate issues with network congestion and latency.

Edge computing is not without its challenges, however. One of the biggest is the need for reliable, secure connectivity between edge devices and central cloud systems. This requires robust network infrastructure and data security measures to ensure that sensitive information is protected.

Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of edge computing are clear. By moving processing power closer to the source, we can process data faster, more efficiently, and at a lower cost, enabling new use cases and unlocking new value in industries across the board. As our world becomes ever more data-driven, edge computing will play an increasingly important role in shaping how we collect, process, and utilize information.

Reference

Blog signed by:  Elpida Tzika (ITML team) 

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Key Facts

  • Project Coordinator: Dr. Sotiris Ioannidis
  • Institution: Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas (FORTH)
  • E-mail: marvel-info@marvel-project.eu 
  • Start: 01.01.2021
  • Duration: 36 months
  • Participating Organisations: 17
  • Number of countries: 12

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Funding

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This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation program under grant agreement No 957337. The website reflects only the view of the author(s) and the Commission is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information it contains.