Businesses are changing how they manage data in the evolving IoT landscape. With two thirds of edge workloads now vital to business operations, according to the IDC, it is crucial to rethink IoT infrastructure.
Exploring new data processing avenues in the IoT era
Traditional cloud computing has been key to digital transformation, with its strong centralised processing and storage. However, as IoT networks become more complex and data generation soars, a more sophisticated approach is needed. Enter edge computing, a crucial complement to cloud that brings processing power closer to the origin of data.
Breaking down cloud v. edge computing in IoT
Think of cloud computing as your organisation's digital headquarters—a big virtual data centre with sizable storage and processing power. It is where IoT data traditionally are stored, analysed, and turned into valuable insights. But as IoT networks grow bigger and more complex, a new player has emerged: edge computing.
Edge computing is exactly what it sounds like—it brings data processing closer to where the action happens, right at the "edge" of your network. Instead of sending every byte of data back to the cloud, edge computing lets you process information right where it is created, often on or near the IoT devices themselves. This is not just a technical upgrade; it is a transformative for businesses looking to get the most out of their IoT investments.
Why edge computing is taking centre stage
Global spending on edge computing is estimated to reach $228 billion by the end of 2024, marking a 14% boom from 2023. Here are why businesses are jumping on board:
- Speed matters: Some applications simply cannot wait for data to make the round trip to the cloud. When milliseconds count, edge computing delivers.
- Connectivity isn't always perfect: Mobile IoT devices, specifically, move in and out of coverage areas. Edge computing keeps things running even when connectivity is not ideal.
- Cost control: As IoT devices generate more data, the costs of sending everything to the cloud add up fast. Edge computing helps businesses be smart about what gets sent and what gets processed locally.
- Scaling smart: As IoT moves from pilot projects to full production, the amount of data can overwhelm traditional infrastructure. Edge computing helps businesses grow sustainably.
- Security and compliance: With data privacy laws getting stricter, keeping certain data processing local is not just smart—it is a requirement.
The perfect partnership: Cloud + Edge
At the end of the day, it is not about choosing between cloud and edge computing. The real synergy happens when you use both strategically. IDC calls this approach ‘edge-native,’ where applications and platforms are specifically designed to manage the challenges of distributed deployments. This combined approach lets you:
- Manage time-critical data right where it is created
- Keep your security tight across the board
- Scale up or down as needed
- Keep your security tight across the board
Case in point: The Dis-Chem success story
A prime example of successful cloud and edge computing integration comes from Stratus Technologies with Dis-Chem, a leading South African pharmaceutical group.
Dis-Chem faced challenges with their traditional cluster-based IT infrastructure. When servers failed, entire stores could go offline, leading to manual trading or complete shutdowns. For remote locations, fixing failures could take hours or longer, requiring technicians to fly in with replacement parts.
To tackle this, Dis-Chem implemented Stratus’ solutions across their stores, achieving:
- Zero downtime across store environments
- Simplified infrastructure by replacing multiple servers with a single Stratus solution
- Proactive system monitoring with ongoing staff support
- Protected revenue and enhanced customer satisfaction
What is next for cloud and edge in IoT?
IDC predicts that investments in edge computing will continue to grow significantly in the coming years. Here is what is driving this growth:
- AI gets closer to home: Artificial intelligence is moving to the edge, enabling smarter, faster decision-making right where you need it.
- Further 5G integration: As 5G networks become ubiquitous, fulfilling their potential for edge computing and IoT. The increased speed at the network's edge means more opportunities for real-time applications.
- Industry integration: Edge computing is becoming essential across industries, from manufacturing to healthcare, retail to transportation.
How Westcon-Comstor makes IoT work for your customers
At Westcon-Comstor, we bring decades of experience in both IT and operational technology, making us uniquely qualified to guide IoT deployments. Here is how we help our partners succeed:
- We simplify the complex: We bring together best-of-breed technologies and vendors to create cohesive solutions that work seamlessly across cloud and edge environments.
- We focus on results: Our focus is on delivering tangible business outcomes through carefully curated technology combinations and expert guidance.
- We help you grow: We provide flexible solutions that can grow and scale with businesses, supported by global expertise and local presence.
- We prioritise security: Our solutions incorporate security by design, ensuring that IoT deployments remain protected across both cloud and edge environments.
Ready to help your customers synergise cloud and edge computing—while growing your business? Get in touch
