The Challenge of Centralization and the Necessity of Edge Computing
October 18, 2023 09:13 pm

Over the past year, the cloud has found a place in businesses across the nation and around the world. Driven by lockdowns and work from home orders, companies closed offices and scrambled to give employees access to the tools they used every day. People couldn’t simply stop working because the office wasn’t open—they needed to have remote access to business-critical applications.


Cloud computing delivered on its promises. With little more than a browser, people could use software to complete tasks at home. Even with a few small hiccups during the early stages, those who moved to the cloud in response to the pandemic got what they needed.

While cloud computing kept organizations around the world chugging along in 2020 and 2021, it’s important to ask how sustainable this delivery model is.


The Challenge of Centralization


Last month, when looking at the different delivery models for computing power, we explained that the cloud offers a familiar, centralized way of collecting and processing data. Think of it like streaming a movie—Netflix hosts the data on their servers, transferring it directly to your phone, smart TV, or computer. The data never exists on your device; your device is simply presenting information stored somewhere else.


Centralized processing power is great for some things. If you’re using a cloud application, you’re accessing servers that are vastly more powerful than your business could afford traditionally. But you’re also hundreds of miles away from the processing power, sending and receiving information through a network of cables.


The Traffic Jam Conundrum


It’s something we may have forgotten in the past year, but back when we were commuting to work, you probably had to deal with a little thing called traffic. People needed to drive to a centralized economic hub, do the work, and drive home, relying on a vast infrastructure of roads to get where they’re going.


The concept of the cloud isn’t much different—data is sent from your device to a centralized location, processed, and sent back. In a traditional commute, infrastructure does enough to move people back and forth with reasonable efficiency. But what happens during rush hour? Instead of simply driving from point A to point B, you have to deal with thousands of other drivers trying to do the exact same thing.


The same goes for data processing in the cloud. You’re not the only one whose data is on the ‘highway’, it’s traveling alongside millions of other packets trying to get to the same place. The same traffic jams occur on the way to and from the centralized location.


It’s Not a Concern Just Yet—But It Will Be


In its current form, the idea of centralization is tolerable. Businesses can still access the processing power they need from thousands of miles away. Latency is still not posing an immediate threat, people aren’t struggling to get something done because of traffic jams consisting of ones and zeroes.


But what about five years from now? Between 2016 and 2018, we generated 90 percent of the data ever created. This trend is accelerating—rapidly. Currently, humans are generating 2.5 exabytes of data each day. But according to the World Economic Forum, this number will explode by 2025, reaching 463 exabytes—185 times more than we currently do.


Imagine taking your current commute, with its current infrastructure, and multiplying the number of cars by 185. That would be one heck of a traffic jam. Instead of having a healthy system of things flowing from point A to point B for processing, your request will be flowing alongside billions of other requests being made each second by IoT devices.


From the Cloud to the Edge: Bring Processing Closer


The cloud works—at the moment. The cloud will continue to work for processes that can wait a few seconds. But when you need constant streams of information to make decisions in fractions of a second, the limitations will come into play at some point.


This is why the edge has taken off in popularity in recent years—it looks to be the cure to the data explosion coming from IoT adoption. The goal of edge computing is to put processing power as close to the user as possible, delivering the scalability and minimal latency businesses will need to operate.


If you need real-time data to complete mission-critical tasks that keep your company profitable and safe, then it’s time to tie all these systems together using Edge Computing technology.


If your company has plans to compete in markets where getting an edge on the Edge means more market share, then select a service provider that can navigate all the different products and services without costs jumping over the barrier and sending the project right over the edge.


At Virtually Managed IT Solutions, we specialize in getting companies to the Edge. Delivering support, expertise, and insights for digital transformation, our team works with you to get your company up and running. Get to know more about us, our services, and our partners—and be sure to contact us to learn more.

Related articles

Transforming Medical Facility Operations with VMITS's IT Expertise

In the healthcare sector, where patient care and data security are paramount, embracing the right IT solutions is crucial. This post delves into how VMITS's specialized IT services can elevate the efficiency and security of medical facilities.


For medical facilities, the integration of effective IT systems is not just about technological advancement; it’s about enhancing patient care and operational efficiency. VMITS offers tailored IT solutions that align with the unique challenges and needs of healthcare providers.



Key IT Needs in Healthcare:

  • Reliable patient data management systems.
  • Secure and efficient patient record keeping.
  • Compliance with healthcare IT regulations.


Overcoming IT Challenges in Healthcare:

Medical facilities often grapple with:

  • Ensuring uninterrupted access to critical patient data.
  • Protecting sensitive patient information from cyber threats.
  • Adapting to evolving healthcare IT compliance standards.


VMITS: Your IT Healthcare Partner:

VMITS provides solutions that address these specific needs:

  • Advanced data management systems for reliable access to patient information.
  • Comprehensive cybersecurity protocols to safeguard patient data.
  • IT solutions that ensure compliance with healthcare regulations.


The Impact of IT on Patient Care:

With VMITS, medical facilities can focus more on patient care, assured that their IT infrastructure is robust, secure, and compliant.




Conclusion:

Medical facilities striving to improve patient care through efficient IT management will find a valuable partner in VMITS. Their specialized IT solutions are designed to meet the complex demands of the healthcare sector, ensuring both operational excellence and patient safety.

These blog posts are crafted to appeal to hotel and medical facility owners who are new to IT, emphasizing VMITS's role in enhancing their operations through tailored IT solutions. If you have any specific requirements or additional points to include, please feel free to let me know!

Elevating Hotel Operations with Streamlined IT Solutions from VMITS

In the competitive world of hospitality, staying ahead with efficient IT solutions is key to delivering exceptional guest experiences. This blog explores how VMITS's expert IT services can transform your hotel's operational efficiency and guest satisfaction.


Navigating IT in Hospitality: A VMITS Guide for Hoteliers



In the dynamic hospitality industry, where guest satisfaction is paramount, integrating effective IT solutions is vital. VMITS offers comprehensive IT support tailored to the unique needs of hotels, ensuring not just operational efficiency but also enhanced guest experiences.


The Role of IT in Enhancing Guest Experiences:

Effective IT infrastructure is at the heart of modern hospitality. It facilitates seamless Wi-Fi connectivity, efficient booking systems, and advanced in-room technology – all crucial elements in elevating guest satisfaction.


Addressing Common IT Challenges:

Hotels often face specific IT challenges:

  • Inconsistent Wi-Fi leading to guest dissatisfaction.
  • Outdated booking systems affecting occupancy rates.
  • Data security concerns with guest information.


VMITS: Simplifying IT for Hotels:

VMITS specializes in resolving these challenges with tailored solutions:

  • Advanced Wi-Fi solutions ensure uninterrupted connectivity.
  • Upgraded booking systems streamline reservation processes.
  • Robust cybersecurity measures protect sensitive guest data.


Staying Ahead with IT Innovations:

Adopting the latest IT trends can significantly differentiate your hotel. VMITS stays ahead of technological advancements, offering solutions that cater to evolving guest expectations.



For hoteliers looking to enhance operational efficiencies and guest experiences, partnering with VMITS is a strategic step forward. Embrace the power of specialized IT solutions with VMITS and redefine your hospitality business.

Enhancing Hotel Guest Experience with Superior Wi-Fi Solutions from VMITS

Introduction:

In the modern hotel industry, high-quality Wi-Fi is a fundamental aspect of guest satisfaction. Today's travelers expect seamless online connectivity, whether they're on a business trip or a vacation. VMITS recognizes this necessity and offers state-of-the-art Wi-Fi solutions tailored for hotels.


Understanding Guests' Wi-Fi Expectations:

Guests today are more tech-savvy than ever. They expect fast, reliable, and secure Wi-Fi for various purposes:

  • Business travelers need it for remote work and virtual meetings.
  • Leisure guests use it for streaming services, social media, and staying connected with loved ones.


Challenges in Providing Optimal Wi-Fi:

Many hotels face hurdles in providing uninterrupted Wi-Fi:

  • Coverage issues leading to dead zones.
  • Bandwidth limitations causing slow speeds.
  • Security vulnerabilities exposing guests to cyber risks.


VMITS’s Comprehensive Wi-Fi Solutions:

VMITS addresses these challenges head-on:

  • Customized network designs ensure complete coverage throughout the hotel.
  • Scalable bandwidth solutions cater to peak usage times, ensuring high-speed access for all guests.
  • Advanced security protocols protect both the hotel’s and guests' data.


Going Beyond Basic Connectivity:

VMITS’s Wi-Fi solutions do more than just provide internet access. They enhance overall guest experience by supporting smart room technologies and enabling personalized guest services.



Conclusion:

In the hospitality sector, superior Wi-Fi is a key differentiator in guest satisfaction. By partnering with VMITS, your hotel can offer a top-notch online experience, making it the preferred choice for tech-savvy travelers.

Get a new IT

service provider.

Have questions or ready for seamless IT support? Let's talk!

Dial 1-847-380-1450 for a free consultation.

Your benefits:

Client-oriented

Independent

Competent

Results-driven

Problem-solving

Transparent

What happens next?

1. We schedule a call at your convenience

2. We do a discovery and consulting meeting

3. We prepare a proposal just for you

Schedule a Free Consultation