America’s infrastructure is in need of investment, improvement, and intelligence. The next generation of connectivity and computing we implement as a society will reimagine our roads, utilities, public transportation systems, and more. Edge computing has the potential to transform our communities to the imagined society we deserve and need. Since the internet is seen by many as a utility similar to water, sewer, or electricity we need edge computing to improve community access to the internet and other computing resources. With the distributed nature of edge networks paired with the ability to decouple a device from its computing power, we can create the possibilities we’ve dreamed of.
The Possibilities
But what could reimagined infrastructure mean for you and your everyday life? Here are a few possibilities.
Traffic Management
Want to spend less time sitting in traffic? Smart traffic lights systems and connected cars could communicate via edge locations to optimize traffic flow based on real-time data.
Public Transportation
The edge can connect trains, buses, and other forms of public transportation for more efficient operations. Patrons won’t be left waiting and wondering. With real-time location information, patrons can seamlessly use the service. Fares will be easier than ever with improved smart fare systems. Additionally, municipalities can measure ridership and route popularity, dynamically adjusting services based on need.
Smart Utilities
Whether we are talking about power grids, water treatment, or gas pipelines, the need to provide services and steward our resources is clear. Smart utilities can leverage the Edge for low latencyTime required to send data over two points in a network. More monitoring. This allows for essential real time adjustments that could improve water quality, keep an energy grid online, and much more.
Accessible Computing Resources
Many areas around the world often struggle with access to computational power and internet connectivity. Communities can offer subsidized, reliable high speed internet by deploying regional edge locations. Such an initiative could help the community and individuals compete in an economy that is increasingly online. Individuals and families would have increased access to community services including emergency broadcasting, family services, and police and fire. This improved access contributes to the safety of the community as a whole.
Security
No matter the application, service or access to the internet, security and privacy is the utmost priority. We need a new way to prevent the continuous cyberattacks on our mission critical systems our society relies on and the applications that hold our personal data. With the edge, we can create a distributed security network that lives on a private network separate from public consumption.
The Applications of the Future
These are only a few of the infrastructure use cases made possible by edge computing. Even better, there are equally exciting use cases over multiple industries! Watch for future posts to learn more about all of the ways edge computing will intersect with your future.