Not familiar with edge computing? Essentially, it is computing that happens close to the source of data. This kind of computing eliminates the need to depend solely on cloud networks. So, if you’re often frustrated by the cloud for various reasons, this is a huge deal that you may want to consider for your company. One way to think of it and make it relatable is to see edge computing as data that happens near or at the network’s edge. This can occur on devices such as phones, computers, televisions, a robot or a networking tower. How does this relate to computer vision and your business? Well, simply put, computer vision is used to make tasks that require the human eye easier and more efficient for you and your company. It is an excellent way to help you stay organized while maximizing your man power. With edge computing, computer vision processes can happen quicker, while taking up less space in a more secure manner than the cloud offers. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of edge computing and reflect on some of the challenges as well.
In almost all things that we do for business, speed is essential. After all, time is the one resource that we can never get back. Edge computing improves speed and reduces downtime because it eliminates the need for data to travel from certain points to the cloud and back again. Why is this important? Well, real time decision making often depends on accurate data being transported. With edge computing, you’ll be able to shave seconds off the wait time. This increases your efficiency and helps your company operate at a higher level more consistently. No matter what industry you’re in, there will be tons of use cases where instant data is essential. Just think about all of the ways this can prove to be beneficial in the medical field when decisions need to be made rapidly. Edge computing helps give you the upper-hand, so you can make the right choice without major delay.
Additionally, edge computing also removes the need for massive bandwidth. Since there’s no reason for you to depend on the cloud as much, you can look forward to reducing the hefty cost of transmitting data. Yes, the price tag on storing data may be steadily decreasing, but moving data around continues to be expensive. Edge computing is a smart and easy way to help you manage costs and save your company some money. Now, that’s what we call thinking outside of the box.
Here’s another advantage of edge computing for you. What would you say is arguably the most common concern people have with storing data in the cloud? If you guessed privacy and having important information stolen, you’re certainly right. If you share this worry, you should definitely lean into edge computing. See, this process keeps your valuable data more secure. This means that the information you value most won’t be found in centralized data servers that are often targeted by hackers. Just think about it in this sense. With edge computing, you will be transmitting less information back and forth from the cloud. This decreases the opportunity for sensitive information to leak. Regardless of whether you’re an AI company that’s focused on artificial intelligence and computer vision, a marketing and communications firm looking to grow, a part of the medical community or any other field, you’ll have documents and information that you’ll want to keep private by any means.
Another amazing benefit of implementing edge computing for your business is its reliability. When communication channels or a satellite connection is down, your servers will still operate. Additionally, edge computing is a process that simplifies things and allows devices to work independently. With a centralized server, once something stops working, the entire ecosystem will experience problems. However, with the edge, one device could stop working without adversely impacting the entire ecosystem. This is a big deal that allows you to function during technological challenges.
While there are many benefits to edge computing, there are also some challenges that you should be aware of. For starters, managing multiple devices can be difficult. Yes, this provides independence in the event one has an error, but it does give you more things to juggle simultaneously. Additionally, for exceptionally large companies, edge computing can mean higher maintenance costs than using a single cloud infrastructure. The goal here is to save money, so if you find that it is costing you too much, don’t hesitate to switch courses. Another major disadvantage of edge computing is the geographic challenge that it can present. The cloud enables companies to easily conduct business in different regions. With edge computing, it takes skilled implementers to pull it off and keep business running as usual. This can be something that’s difficult and frustrating to overcome.
Despite these challenges, more companies are implementing edge computing than ever before due to all of its incredible advantages. However, it is important to note that edge computing will likely always work in conjunction with cloud servers. It is not a solution that is intended to completely replace them. When you add edge computing to your business, you will have the flexibility to take advantage of both services. Just remember to consistently pulse check and see what is and isn’t working for you in your quest to grow and evolve while increasing revenue.
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