Edge Network: IT Definition
The Edge network is a network endpoint, the interface between the data center and the real world. It moves data processing to the edge of the network, i.e., as close as possible to users and connected objects. Unlike the traditional cloud, where data is sent to central servers, the Edge network allows information to be processed locally. This limits the need to transfer large volumes of data to data centers. Unlike the traditional cloud, where data is sent to central servers, the edge network allows information to be processed locally. This limits the need to transfer large volumes of data to remote data centers, which speeds up the process and reduces network load.
How does the edge network work?
The edge network is based on a series of small servers and access points distributed around the edge of the network, often close to users. The data collected is processed locally by these servers before being transmitted to main data centers such as the Edge data centers set up by UltraEdge.
The edge network functions like a vending machine. Wherever you are, there is always one nearby.
For example, a connected car equipped with sensors transmits data to the local edge server, which instantly analyzes the information to enable rapid decision-making. This local processing reduces delays and optimizes responsiveness.
The advantages of the edge network
The edge network brings a whole range of features and advantages to enterprise data environments and also offers many benefits for users.
Reduced latency
Thanks to edge data centers and the use of artificial intelligence, data is processed close to users, significantly speeding up responses and reducing latency.
Improved performances
Improved performance IoT and AI have become part of users' day-to-day routines, significantly increasing the demand for connectivity and mobile service availability. Real-time applications, such as online gaming and autonomous vehicles, work better with faster response times. Edge networks enable operators to provide ultra-fast connectivity with dynamic application deployment while minimizing latency. This promotes a more seamless user experience, resulting in increased consumer satisfaction.
Bandwith savings
By reducing data transfers to central servers, the edge network limits network congestion, which drastically reduces maintenance costs and the storage capacity in physical data centers.
Enhanced security
Local data processing reduces the risk of data loss in transit, improving the confidentiality of information in transit while maintaining a fast digitization rate.
How does edge computing differ from cloud computing?
Cloud computing and edge computing are different technologies. They are based on different processing locations and are therefore not interchangeable. With Edge computing, data is processed locally, as close as possible to users and connected devices. This reduces latency and provides near-instantaneous response times.
Cloud computing, on the other hand, centralizes processing in remote servers, which involves transferring information across the network. This makes cloud computing perfect for massive storage and large-scale analysis. However, it introduces a minor delay. Edge computing is ideal for applications that require immediate responsiveness, such as autonomous vehicles and the IoT. In short, the edge network focuses on local speed, while the cloud offers more extensive processing and storage capacity.
Today, we are increasingly discovering edge networks that allow data to be stored close to the device location, and AI algorithms allow this data to be processed directly at the edge of the network, with or without an internet connection.
Edge network and data centers: a high-performance duo
The edge network and data centers work in a complementary way. While the edge network processes data locally for fast responses, data centers handle large-scale data storage and processing. Together, they form a hybrid infrastructure where the edge network manages immediate needs and data centers provide long-term data management. This duo combines high speed, reliability, and scalability. Together, they form a hybrid infrastructure where the edge network manages immediate needs and datacenters provide long-term data management. This duo allows companies to balance speed, reliability, and scalability.
However, in conclusion, it should be noted that the emergence of Edge data centers enables proximity to end users.