IoT Edge

What is it? 

IoT edge is a combination of devices, technologies, and services that support the edge computing framework. It allows the devices at the periphery of the IoT network to process data close to its point of origin rather than in a centralized location like cloud-based servers. The IoT network’s portion that contains edge devices is called the edge layer. 

Edge computing increases the efficiency of IoT systems, improves security, reduces server bandwidth (maximum capacity to transfer data in a specific amount of time), and decreases computational requirements. 

How does it work? 

Data is transported over the messaging system, processed by computer, and then stored. As computing is performed near the edge, it results in the prevention of latency (delay in time data takes to get from one point to another) and operational issues. 

The IoT device’s sensors gather data and route them to the processing unit. Consequently, data is processed locally instead of being transferred to the cloud and back. Additionally, distributed data collection and processing helps to avoid over- or underuse of devices. 

Where is it used? 

The edge computing framework for the Internet of Things is employed in sectors such as industrial control, military and defense, energy, smart cities, manufacturing, and agriculture. For instance, in industrial settings, machine data inputs no longer need to be processed by a remote server. IoT edge technology shortens the time for sending commands back to machines and mitigates safety risks.