Difference between Edge Computing and Cloud Computing
Last Updated :
03 Mar, 2023
Edge Computing and Cloud Computing are the two paradigms in this modern digital world. Both are the growing paradigms for storing data on Cloud. In this article, we will first go through understanding the terms Edge Computing and Cloud Computing. We will discuss the Advantages along with Disadvantages of Edge and Cloud Computing in detail. By the end of the article, we will go through the fundamental difference between Edge and Cloud Computing.
Edge Computing
Edge Computing is a distributed computing architecture that brings computing and data storage closer to the source of data. Data processing takes place at the network's edge, adjacent to the device that generated the data, as opposed to a central location, such as a data center. Reduced latency and bandwidth needs are desired outcomes of edge computing when transferring large amounts of data to a processing center. Edge computing facilitates real-time decision-making by processing data close to the edge and accelerating data transfer to and from the cloud.
IoT devices, automated vehicles, and augmented reality/virtual reality (AR/VR) systems require low latency benefits, particularly from edge computing. Applications that produce a lot of data, such as those used in industry, video and image analysis, and intelligent
Advantages of Edge Computing
- Reduced Latency: Edge Computing makes it possible to process and analyze data more quickly at the point of origin, which cuts down on the time it takes for data to be transported to the cloud and back. Due to the huge reduction in latency, this is perfect for real-time decision-making applications like robotics, industrial automation, and automated cars.
- Increased Security: By enabling data processing and analysis close to the data's origin and reducing the quantity of data that must be transferred to the cloud, edge computing can increase security. As a result, it is more difficult for hackers to hack the system because the attack surface and potential vulnerabilities are reduced.
- Greater Bandwidth Efficiency: By enabling local data processing and analysis, edge computing can lessen the quantity of data that needs to be transported to the cloud. Better bandwidth efficiency as a result can lower data transmission costs and enable quicker processing.
Disadvantages of Edge Computing
- Low Processing Power: With compare to cloud computing infrastructure, edge computing devices often have less processing power and storage space. The types of apps that can be used on edge devices may be constrained as a result.
- Increased Complexity: Edge computing implementation can be trickier than standard cloud computing strategies. This is due to the requirement of edge computing, which can be difficult to manage and maintain, to install processing and storage resources closer to the source.
- Increased Costs: In terms of hardware and maintenance costs, edge computing can be more expensive than cloud computing. This is because Edge Computing necessitates the deployment of processing and storage resources across several numbers which can be more expensive to set up and maintain.
Cloud Computing
Cloud Computing is a model for delivering information technology services over the internet. Users can now access and use shared pools of reconfigurable computing resources, including as servers, storage, databases, OS, and applications, without worrying about maintaining the underlying infrastructure.
The way that organizations and people access and use computing resources has been changed by cloud computing. They can rent computer resources from a cloud provider like Amazon Web Services rather than purchasing and maintaining their own hardware and software. Scalability, cost savings, increased agility, improved reliability, and global access are a few advantages of cloud computing.
Advantages of Cloud Computing
- Scalability: Without having to invest in pricey hardware, cloud computing enables businesses to effortlessly scale up or down their computer capabilities as needed. This enhances an organization's agility and enables swift responses to shift business requirements.
- Cost-Effectiveness: For small and medium-sized organizations in particular, cloud computing can be more affordable than traditional computer methods. This is because economies of scale allow cloud companies to offer computing power at a reduced price.
- High Availability: Cloud computing is capable of providing high availability, and most cloud providers offer uptime guarantees of a specific standard. This makes it perfect for applications that need constant availability, such as online stores or banking services.
Disadvantages of Cloud Computing
- Security Risks: Cloud computing can create additional security concerns, especially if the security precautions taken by the cloud provider are moderate. Data leaks, unauthorized access, and other cyber-attacks fall under this category.
- Dependent Internet Connectivity: Internet connectivity is necessary for cloud computing to access computing resources and data. If the internet connection is inconsistent or slow, this could be a drawback as it could result in lost productivity or stopped service.
- Restricted Control: The rate of control that companies have over their computing resources and data may be limited as a result of cloud computing. Because they depend on cloud service providers to manage and maintain their computer infrastructure, businesses may not be able to fully personalize and improve their systems.
Difference between Edge Computing and Cloud Computing
| Parameter | Edge Computing | Cloud Computing |
| Definition | Edge Computing is a distributed computing architecture that brings computing and data storage closer to the source of data. | Cloud Computing is a model for delivering information technology services over the internet.
|
| Location of Processing | Processing is done at the edge of the network, near the device that generates the data. | Data Analysis and Processing are done at a central location, such as a data center.
|
| Bandwidth Requirements | Low bandwidth is required, as data is processed near the source. | Higher bandwidth is required as compared to edge computing, as data must be transmitted over the network to a central location for processing.
|
| Costs | Edge Computing is more expensive, as specialized hardware and software may be required at the edge. | Cloud Computing is less expensive, as users only pay for the resources they actually use.
|
| Scalability | Scalability for Edge Computing can be more challenging, as additional computing resources may need to be added at the edge. | Easier, as users can quickly and easily scale up or down their computing resources based on their needs. |
| Use Cases | Applications that require low latency and real-time decision-making, such as IoT devices, autonomous vehicles, and AR/VR systems. | Applications that do not have strict latency requirements, such as web applications, email, and file storage.
|
| Data Security | Data security can be improved, as data is processed near the source and is not transmitted over the network. | Data Security is more challenging, as data is transmitted over the network to a central location for processing.
|
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