The next wave of cellular networking technology (5G) is on its way, but still cresting. But the next wave of other technologies, like edge computing, is already here.
High-speed data providers that want to improve their current 4G (LTE) service while waiting for 5G are using a combination of edge computing and cloud to ensure an optimal experience for their customers.
Why Are Providers Moving To Edge Computing?
The emerging 5G’s faster speeds and lower latency promise an era filled with ultra-fast downloads, immersive virtual reality experiences, and other types of new interactive services.
However, the promise of 5G may not materialize until sometime in 2021.
That’s why many providers have chosen not to wait for 5G but have instead begun deploying edge computing strategies.
Edge computing is a distributed computing model takes place near the physical location where data is being collected and analyzed, rather than on a centralized server that’s miles away, or in the cloud.
This type of infrastructure involves sensors to collect data and edge servers to securely process data in real-time on site, while also connecting other devices, like laptops and smartphones, to the network.
What Are The Advantages Of Edge Computing Strategies?
By deploying edge computing strategies, providers move the processing closer to the user, thereby reducing phone call latency and increasing reliability, even in densely populated areas.
The idea is that if mobile edge computing is implemented before 5G, mobile operators can improve existing service significantly by leveraging their current infrastructure and a lot sooner.
It’s become clear that a mobile edge cloud can be used by a mobile operator and its various business partners to evolve features and services much more rapidly than has been possible and to develop or augment new subscriber services.
An edge cloud brings a developer-friendly platform into the operator infrastructure for the first time and serves as a natural foundation for eventual 5G service.
This proactive strategy will change the way mobile computing and high-speed data transfer is accomplished. With an edge adaptation of 4G (LTE) services, subscribers will see vastly improved service today, not a year or eighteen months from now.
It enables functional integration with the cellular infrastructure and low-latency, high-bandwidth connectivity to the device that isn’t possible from the conventional cloud.
Conclusion
If your organization has multiple locations or off-site workers, speed and reliability are crucial. We provide industry-leading high-speed internet, broadband communications solutions, voice, phone services and fiber infrastructure solutions for businesses of all sizes.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your company run more productively and efficiently.
