Glossary What is Edge Computing?

By   / 2 Jan 2023  / Topics: Intelligent edge

Edge computing is a computational task that’s done on premises by the edge device instead of over the cloud. Many Internet of Things (IoT) devices send data to the cloud to get analyzed, then back from the cloud to the device to be actioned; however, an edge device does the analysis on-site — removing the need to send the data to the cloud and back to the edge device.

Some examples of edge computing use cases:

  • Energy — helping remote solar panels and wind turbines adjust to conditions
  • Transportation — enabling automatic traffic response from streetlights and message boards
  • Retail — supporting inventory checks and improving the customer experience

Edge computing most often refers to technology in distributed environments where users don’t monitor in person. Edge computing supports intelligent edge and IoT systems — improving response times and saving network bandwidth.

Learn more about edge computing