Intelligent Tech Channels Issue 52 | Page 25

PARTNERS ’ PERSPECTIVE benefit from the Edge , it is difficult to highlight just a few . However , at a generic level , by performing real-time analysis at the Edge , a company can reduce the load on its data centres . This brings significant cost efficiencies given the reduced centralised processing needed . In turn , this can be enhanced with additional analysis back at the data centre if required . Ultimately , companies become more agile in meeting customer demand or receiving alerts about any number of factors that could impact operations .
All this will combine to have a real impact on how well a large business is run as well as how a customer experiences dealing with the organisation . For example , an integrated customer portal across all divisions and line of business systems , in real-time .
Remember that the more data that data models get and the more frequently they get it , the more diverse and powerful the analytic solutions that can be built . In terms of a general upliftment and improvement , many operations will simply be quicker .
For solution providers , it is important to understand that companies from all sectors of the market are starting to pay attention to what data analysis on the Edge could mean for their competitive advantage . Already , the channel is seeing how data is
One of the biggest benefits of this is the amount of time saved by being able to analyse data at the point of origin .
being remodelled for IoT devices to work more efficiently . Whether it is getting stock updates from remote branches highlighting product lines which are selling well ( or poorly ) or telemetric data that can optimise logistic routes in real-time based on road conditions and traffic flow , the Edge delivers significant value which the right channel partners can help their customers unlock .
Large volumes of data created by these connected devices may be processed more quickly at the network ’ s edge , rather as at a remote data centre , thanks to Edge Computing .
Edge Computing is also expected to play a critical role in realising 5G ’ s full potential . The network ’ s ability to sustain increasing data loads and unpredictable traffic patterns will be put to the test as 5G and IoT become more prevalent .
Given that large volumes of data created by these connected devices may be processed more quickly at the network ’ s edge , rather than at a remote data centre , thanks to Edge Computing , it is critical that channel partners take time to educate and explain in detail the benefits of Edge Computing to their customers . This will not only stand them in good stead with their clients of potential customers but distinguish them to stand out from a crowded market .
Edge Computing is also expected to play a critical role in realising 5G ’ s full potential . The network ’ s ability to sustain increasing data loads and unpredictable traffic patterns will be put to the test as 5G and IoT become more prevalent .
While all this is unfolding before the channel , solution providers should not be confused or forget the ever present danger of cyber attacks and data breaches .
Attackers have expanded the scale and scope of their attacks as businesses have been driven to extend services and rely more heavily on the Edge .
According to NETSCOUT , in the first half of 2021 , attackers launched 5.4 million distributed denial of service ( DDoS ) attacks , up 11 % over the same period the previous year . It ’ s no surprise , then , that security is a worry for enterprise IT and security teams who rely on the Edge . Edge devices were not designed with security in mind , according to the cybersecurity vendor , 55 % of 268 IT professionals polled , and 69 % indicated Edge Computing has had or will have an influence on network security , stated NETSCOUT .
The larger attack surface and increased vulnerability to attacks such as DDoS campaigns , data theft , and intrusions into the enterprise network are the most pressing concerns . When asked which technology investment is most important to meet the changes brought on by the pandemic , over half of CIOs chose security and privacy ( 47 %) followed by customer experience and engagement ( 44 %). Clearly , if you are a solution provider and have not jumped onto the Edge Computing bandwagon , now is the fitting time to do so . •
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