Editing Introduction to Edge Computing (section)

== 1.1 What is Edge Computing? ==

Edge computing is a way of processing data closer to where it’s created like phones, sensors, or machines instead of sending it all the way to a distant cloud or data center. By processing data nearby, it reduces delay, cuts down on internet usage, and enables faster, real-time responses. This is especially helpful for technologies like self-driving cars, smart homes, and automated systems.
While cloud computing manages data at a central location, edge computing brings the power of computing closer to the source, making it quicker and more efficient for local tasks.

=== 1.1.1 Importance ===

Businesses use edge computing to make their devices respond faster and to get quick, valuable insights from data collected on-site. It helps process information in real-time, even in places where cloud connections are slow or unavailable, and prevents networks from getting overloaded with too much data.

Without edge computing, companies could face higher IT costs, slow systems, and even risks to worker safety in industries like healthcare or manufacturing. By analyzing data right where it’s generated, companies can make better decisions, improve safety, boost performance, and offer smoother experiences for users.

Edge computing is already powering critical systems in places like hospitals and factories. It helps businesses act faster, automate more processes, and build smarter environments. This opens up chances to launch new products quicker, improve customer experiences, and create new ways to earn revenue.

=== 1.1.2 Working ===

Edge computing makes apps and smart devices faster and more efficient by processing data closer to where it’s generated — like on the device itself or a nearby local server — instead of relying only on faraway cloud servers.

[[File:Screenshot 2.png|550px|thumb|center|Working of Edge Computing.]]

'''Step 1:''' Data Is Generated at the Edge

Devices such as sensors, smartphones, cameras, and machines constantly produce data — like temperature, motion, or video footage.

'''Step 2:''' Local processing at the Edge

Rather than sending everything to the cloud, edge computing allows that data to be filtered and analyzed locally, right where it’s created — often on the device or a nearby mini server.

'''Step 3:''' Only Important Data Is Sent to the Cloud

* Routine Data: GPS location updates while driving in a straight line are handled locally within the car and don’t need to be sent out.

* Urgent Data: If the car detects an obstacle, makes a sudden brake, or is involved in a collision, that information is instantly sent to the cloud or a monitoring system for immediate action.

* Summary Data: Information like completed routes, driving patterns, and system performance is collected and sent periodically to the manufacturer or service provider for analysis and maintenance planning.

=== 1.1.3 Two Main Uses of Edge Computing: ===

==== Upstream Applications (Devices > Cloud) ====
Upstream applications in edge computing are focused on collecting and filtering data at or near the source before transmitting only relevant or necessary information to the cloud. This approach helps minimize network load and enables faster decision-making at the edge.

'''Examples include:'''
* Sensors in the field track soil moisture, temperature, and crop conditions. Instead of sending all the data, only important changes — like a sudden drop in moisture are sent to the cloud to trigger irrigation systems.
* Trains are equipped with sensors that detect issues such as mechanical faults or abnormal vibrations. The data is analyzed on the train itself, and only important alerts or maintenance requirements are sent to the central system.

==== Downstream Applications (Cloud > Users) ====
Downstream applications aim to deliver data from the cloud to users with minimal delay by using edge servers to bring content or services closer to the user’s location. This setup improves response times and overall user experience.

'''Examples include:'''
* Game servers use edge locations to store and deliver game data closer to the players. This setup minimizes delay and improves the performance of fast-paced online games.
* Streaming platforms like Netflix and YouTube use content delivery networks (CDNs) to store frequently watched videos on servers near the users, ensuring smoother playback and reduced buffering.