Edge computing explained

What is edge computing?

Edge computing is a model in which devices at the edge of a network (such as smartphones, speakers, and security cameras) work together and process data locally. This makes it possible to process data directly at the source, rather than being sent to the cloud first. This makes data processing faster and more efficient for devices who need these data for real-time decision-making like Internet of Things devices (IoT devices). 
 
While edge computing in itself is not new, its relevance is increasing with the application of 5G and computing facilities on 'edge devices'. These edge devices are known as IoT devices. 

What components do you need for properly functioning IoT devices?

To properly function and connect to the network, IoT devices require at least four core components: 

• Sensors/Actuators to interact with the physical world; these are integrated in the IoT device. 
• Connectivity for data transmission. SURF provide two elements to facilitate this:  
  • Iotnet for network integration
  • iotroam for device connectivity  
• Processing Unit (like a microcontroller or microprocessor) to run software.
• User Interface or application to interact with users and act on the processed data.  

How do edge computing and cloud relate to each other?

Cloud computing is a technology that provides access to data, applications, and services via the internet, using external servers for storage and processing. This can be any server or storage space provided worldwide.

Edge computing processes data closer to where it is created and used, rather than far away in a large datacenter. This localized processing is essential for real-time decision-making of IoT devices. It makes it possible for devices to function with limited network connectivity and minimizes the amount of sensitive data transmitted across networks.

Examples and experimenting with edge technologies

A well-known example where edge computing is applied is self-driving cars that rapidly process information with edge devices to control the car. In addition, security and control over own data can be important reasons to apply edge computing. 

Within the Edge-oriented technologies theme, we create experimentation environments in which we research and prototype new cloud technologies together with our members and partners, with a focus on edge computing and the Internet of Things. 

Research communities, open-source developers and companies can test and implement new cloud technologies here, while we collaborate with institutions, companies and government organisations to realise a secure national (cloud) infrastructure, in line with international initiatives such as EOSC, EuroHPC (EUROcc) and GAIA-X.