[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#f4f4f4″ width=”auto” custom_padding=”15px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”|||15px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
What is an Edge Computing Platform (ECP)?<\/h2>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”15px|15px||15px|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Edge computing moves data processing close to where it\u2019s generated. For bank branches, manufacturing plants, hospitals, and others, <\/span>edge computing delivers benefits<\/span><\/a> like reduced latency, faster response times, and lower bandwidth costs. An <\/span>Edge Computing Platform (ECP)<\/b> provides the foundation of infrastructure, management, and cloud integration that enable edge computing. The goal of having an ECP is to allow many edge locations to be efficiently operated and scaled with minimal, if any, human touch or physical infrastructure changes.<\/span><\/p>\n Before we describe ECPs in detail, it\u2019s important to first understand why edge computing is becoming increasingly critical to IT and what challenges arise as a result.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” width=”auto” custom_padding=”30px||||false|false” border_color_top=”#78828A” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”30px||||false|false” border_width_top=”1px” border_color_top=”#D6D6D6″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Here are the five drivers of edge computing described in Gartner\u2019s report, along with the challenges that arise from each:<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||||||||” custom_padding=”15px||||false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Every industry has its unique edge computing requirements. For example, manufacturing often needs low-latency processing to ensure real-time control over production, while retail might focus on real-time data insights to deliver hyper-personalized customer experiences.<\/span><\/p>\n Challenge: Edge computing solutions are usually deployed to address an immediate need, without taking into account the potential for future changes. This makes it difficult to adapt to diverse and evolving use cases.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||||||||” custom_padding=”15px||||false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Gartner predicts that by 2029, 30% of enterprises will rely on edge computing. Digital transformation is catalyzing its adoption, while use cases will continue to evolve based on emerging technologies and business strategies.<\/span><\/p>\n Challenge: This rapid transformation means environments will continue to become more complex as edge computing evolves. This complexity makes it difficult to integrate, manage, and secure the various solutions required for edge computing.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||||||||” custom_padding=”15px||||false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The amount of data generated at the edge is increasing exponentially due to digitalization. Initially, this data was often underutilized (referred to as the \u201cdark edge\u201d), but businesses are now shifting towards a more connected and intelligent edge, where data is processed and acted upon in real time.<\/span><\/p>\n Challenge: Enormous volumes of data make it difficult to efficiently manage data flows and support real-time processing without overwhelming the network or infrastructure.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||||||||” custom_padding=”15px||||false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Automation, predictive maintenance, and hyper-personalized experiences are key business drivers pushing the adoption of edge solutions across industries.<\/span><\/p>\n Challenge: Meeting business requirements poses challenges in terms of ensuring scalability, interoperability, and adaptability. <\/span><\/i><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||||||||” custom_padding=”15px||||false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Emerging technologies such as AI\/ML are increasingly deployed at the edge for low-latency processing, which is particularly useful in manufacturing, defense, and other sectors that require real-time analytics and autonomous systems.<\/span><\/p>\n Challenge: AI and ML make it difficult for organizations to determine how to strike a balance between computing power and infrastructure costs, without sacrificing security.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#efefef” custom_padding=”30px|30px||30px|false|true” border_color_top=”#D6D6D6″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n To address these challenges, here\u2019s a brief look at three core features that ECPs need to have according to Gartner\u2019s Market Guide:<\/span><\/p>\n Image: A simple diagram showing the computing and networking capabilities that can be delivered via Edge Management and Orchestration.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” width=”auto” custom_padding=”30px||||false|false” border_color_top=”#78828A” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”30px||||false|false” border_width_top=”1px” border_color_top=”#D6D6D6″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n ZPE Systems\u2019 Nodegrid is a Secure Service Delivery Platform that meets these needs. Nodegrid covers all three feature categories outlined in Gartner\u2019s report, allowing organizations to host and manage edge computing via one platform. Not only is Nodegrid the <\/span>industry\u2019s most secure management infrastructure<\/span><\/a>, but it also features a vendor-neutral OS, hypervisor, and multi-core Intel CPU to support necessary containers, VMs, and workloads at the edge. Nodegrid follows <\/span>isolated management best practices<\/span><\/a> that enable end-to-end orchestration and safe updates\/rollbacks of global device fleets. Nodegrid integrates with all major cloud providers, and also features a variety of uplink types, including 5G, Starlink, and fiber, to address use cases ranging from setting up out-of-band access, to architecting <\/span>Passive Optical Networking<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n Here\u2019s how Nodegrid addresses the five edge computing challenges:<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||||||||” custom_padding=”15px||||false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Nodegrid is built to handle diverse requirements, with a flexible architecture that supports containerized applications and virtual machines. This architecture enables organizations to tailor the platform to their edge computing needs, whether for handling automated workflows in a factory or data-driven customer experiences in retail.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||||||||” custom_padding=”15px||||false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Nodegrid supports ongoing digital transformation by providing zero-touch orchestration and management, allowing for remote deployment and centralized control of edge devices. This enables teams to perform initial setup of all infrastructure and services required for their edge computing use cases. Nodegrid\u2019s remote access and automation provide a secure platform for keeping infrastructure up-to-date and optimized without the need for on-site staff. This helps organizations move much of their focus away from operations (\u201ckeeping the lights on\u201d), and instead gives them the agility to scale their edge infrastructure to meet their business goals.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||||||||” custom_padding=”15px||||false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Nodegrid addresses the challenge of exponential data growth by providing local processing capabilities, enabling edge devices to analyze and act on data without relying on the cloud. This not only reduces latency but also enhances decision-making in time-sensitive environments. For instance, Nodegrid can handle the high volumes of data generated by sensors and machines in a manufacturing plant, providing instant feedback for closed-loop automation and improving operational efficiency.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||||||||” custom_padding=”15px||||false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Nodegrid\u2019s hardware and software are designed to be adaptable, allowing businesses to scale across different industries and use cases. In manufacturing, Nodegrid supports automated workflows and predictive maintenance, ensuring equipment operates efficiently. In retail, it powers hyperpersonalization, enabling businesses to offer tailored customer experiences through edge-driven insights. The vendor-neutral Nodegrid OS integrates with existing and new infrastructure, and the Net SR is a modular appliance that allows for hot-swapping of serial, Ethernet, computing, storage, and other capabilities. Organizations using Nodegrid can adapt to evolving use cases without having to do any heavy lifting of their infrastructure.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||||||||” custom_padding=”15px||||false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Emerging technologies such as AI\/ML require robust edge platforms that can handle complex workloads with low-latency processing. Nodegrid excels in environments where real-time analytics and autonomous systems are crucial, offering high-performance infrastructure designed to support these advanced use cases. Whether processing data for AI-driven decision-making in defense or enabling real-time analytics in industrial environments, Nodegrid provides the computing power and scalability needed for AI\/ML models to operate efficiently at the edge.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” width=”auto” custom_margin=”0px||30px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” border_color_top=”#78828A” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#B5B5B5″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”30px||||false|false” border_color_top=”#D6D6D6″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n As businesses continue to deploy edge computing solutions to manage increasing data, reduce latency, and drive innovation, selecting the right platform becomes critical. The 2024 Gartner Market Guide for Edge Computing Platforms provides valuable insights into the trends and challenges of edge deployments, emphasizing the need for scalability, zero-touch management, and support for evolving workloads.<\/span><\/p>\n Click below to download the report.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gartner.com%2Fdocument-reader%2Fdocument%2F5822547%3Fref%3DAnalystProfile&data=05%7C02%7Cjordan.baker%40zpesystems.com%7Cccda27cd3f994d7a4be008dcecbc99ee%7C199686b5bef4496087867a6b1888fee3%7C1%7C0%7C638645542536029133%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=TprFEt%2BPFOJYMtg3G14rkbs7Vn0dNn5MYGAmQygjAAg%3D&reserved=0″ button_text=”Download Market Guide” button_alignment=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” width=”auto” custom_margin=”0px||30px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” border_color_top=”#78828A” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#B5B5B5″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”30px||||false|false” border_color_top=”#D6D6D6″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Our engineers are ready to walk you through the software infrastructure, edge management and orchestration, and cloud integration capabilities of Nodegrid. Use the form to set up a call and get a hands-on demo of this Secure Service Delivery Platform.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/zpesystems.com\/products\/schedule-a-nodegrid-demo\/” button_text=”Schedule a Demo” button_alignment=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Read our post for the latest insights about edge computing from Gartner. We cover edge computing platforms and how to address the challenges.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":41310,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","content-type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[74,92,165,163,88,103,102,101,86,84,93,82,83,99,85,96,35,80,100,90,81,112],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-227391","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-application-hosting","category-consolidation","category-edge-computing","category-edgeops","category-failover-connectivity","category-improve-network-security","category-increase-productivity","category-minimize-impact-of-disruptions","category-modernize-legacy-environments","category-monitoring-reporting","category-network-automation","category-out-of-band-management","category-power-management","category-remote-network-management","category-sd-branch","category-sd-wan","category-sase","category-simplify-branch-infrastructure","category-streamline-deployments","category-vendor-neutral-platform","category-virtualization","category-zero-touch-provisioning"],"yoast_head":"\nWhat’s Driving Edge Computing, and What Are the Challenges?<\/h2>\n
1. Edge Diversity<\/b><\/h3>\n
2. Ongoing Digital Transformation<\/b><\/h3>\n
3. Data Growth<\/b><\/h3>\n
4. Business-Led Requirements<\/b><\/h3>\n
5. Technology Focus<\/b><\/h3>\n
What Features Do Edge Computing Platforms Need to Have?<\/h2>\n
\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/zpesystems.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Edge-Management-980x653-1.jpg\")
<\/p>\n\n
How ZPE Systems’ Nodegrid Platform Addresses Edge Computing Challenges<\/h2>\n
1. Edge Diversity: Adapting to Industry-Specific Needs<\/b><\/h3>\n
2. Ongoing Digital Transformation: Supporting Continuous Growth<\/b><\/h3>\n
3. Data Growth: Enabling Real-Time Data Processing<\/b><\/h3>\n
4. Business-Led Requirements: Tailored Solutions for Industry Demands<\/b><\/h3>\n
5. Technology Focus: Supporting Advanced AI\/ML Applications<\/b><\/h3>\n
Read Gartner’s Market Guide for Edge Computing Platforms<\/h2>\n
Get a Demo of Nodegrid’s Secure Service Delivery<\/h2>\n