Edge data centers are smaller than your average Enterprise data center. Additionally, they are located more closely to the users to whom they serve data. Edge centers are generally connected to one or a few larger data centers. By processing data in close proximity to end users, edge computing offers organizations significantly reduced latency and improves the overall experience of the user. While individuals can certainly benefit from this technology, let us take a look at what specific sectors make the most of edge computing.

Automotive

Automotive technology is evolving at astronomical rates. Edge computing within the automotive industry must cope with higher and higher amounts of data in partially-autonomous vehicles. These cars must be able to receive data, analyze it, process it, and make important decisions in a short time frame. This is important so operations run smoothly, and passengers and cargo remain safe. This is made possible with low latency levels.

Retail

Among the many advantages of utilizing edge computing in a retail environment is increased store efficiency. With a high-speed network, customers can make the most of their shopping experiences — creating lists, finding items within the store, and benefitting from a check-out-less system. Reduced latency also makes employees’ lives easier with fast PoS system speeds.

Financial

Banks are employing edge computing to better assist their customer base. Customers will have a more enjoyable time utilizing mobile phone apps when loading speeds are decreased. Also, bank customers can have peace of mind knowing that the data center processing their information is close by, should any security issues arise. Trading firms that execute trades also rely on edge data centers to process their transactions quickly and effectively.

Healthcare

Hospital employees find themselves using IoT (internet of things) technology now more than ever before. Having IoT-powered patient equipment means getting patient results and being able to provide care in a quick manner. Fast equipment response times can mean the difference between life and death in a medical environment.

Manufacturing

The manufacturing industry employs IoT sensors in order to keep track of their equipment’s performance. Data centers located closer to manufacturing facilities can offer data insights quicker than larger data centers located further away.

While some people may think that larger enterprise data centers run the show, they actually make up less than 10% of the server market, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Edge data centers are on the rise, and they are benefiting essential industries in more ways than we can realize. For more details on edge computing or data center management, reach out to LDP Associates.