BORANA UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE
Selected Topics in Computer Science

Title: Edge Computing

Name Id no

1. Bamlak Abebayehu BRU/R/424/014

2. Barudin Sherif BRU/R/423/014

3. Dadi Doyo BRU/R/443/014

4. Deng Kang BRU/R/463/014

5. Duresa Wariso BRU/R/470/014

6. Yared Getachew BRU/R/741/014

Instructor: Hadho D. (MSc)

Submission Date: – 26/03/2025

Table of Contents

Introduction...............................................................................................................2
1.1 Evolution of computing systems......................................................................3
1.2 An overview of edge computing......................................................................3
1.2.1 Definition...................................................................................................4
1.2.2 Architecture................................................................................................5
1.2.3 Characteristics............................................................................................5
1.2.4 Advantages.................................................................................................6
1.2.4 Disadvantages............................................................................................7
Conclusions...............................................................................................................9
References...............................................................................................................10

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 Introduction

Edge computing is a distributed computing paradigm that brings computation and data storage
closer to the sources of data, such as sensors, IoT devices, or end-users. This proximity aims to
improve response times, reduce bandwidth requirements, and enhance the overall performance of
applications and services. Unlike traditional cloud computing models where data is processed in
centralized data centers, edge computing performs processing at or near the "edge" of the
network, closer to where the data is generated. This shift in architecture is driven by the growing
number of connected devices and the increasing demand for real-time, data-intensive
applications. By minimizing the distance data needs to travel, edge computing reduces latency,
conserves bandwidth, and enables greater autonomy for edge devices. It is a key enabler for
technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), autonomous vehicles, and industrial automation,
offering significant benefits in terms of speed, efficiency, and security.

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1.1 Evolution of computing systems

Computing has come a long way from where it started. At the very beginning, a computer could
only perform one task at a time. Several distributed computers had to run in parallel when
performing multiple tasks, and distributed systems were formed by connecting those computers,
which usually communicated and coordinated their actions through message exchange. Then,
personal computers and multitasking operating systems emerged and made it possible to run
multiple tasks on the same computer. This enabled the systems’ developers to build and run an
entire system within one or more connected computers. As the price of computing power and
storage fell, organizations all over the world started using distributed systems. The breakthrough
time of distributed systems came when Internet-based companies became so large that they
needed to build distributed systems that spanned across the World as data centers. The
standardization of the concept of distributed computing led to the development of other models,
including cluster computing, autonomic computing, utility computing, and grid computing.
Engineers and developers then started to think about a way to create multiple virtual computers
within the same machine. This led to the concept of virtualization by which the same computer
could act as multiple computers all running at the same time. On top of these predecessor
models, the construction of the cloud computing model was a natural step forward from grid
computing. Cloud computing leveraged the existing models and used the virtualization concept
to provide users with new services including new features and characteristics.

1.2 An overview of edge computing

The idea of having computational resources near the data sources might not be something new.
The term ‘edge computing’ first appeared in 2002, to state that from a business perspective,
applications should be served and moved from the cloud data center to the network edge. The
term was then used in 2004 to describe a system that distributed program methods and the
corresponding data to the edge of the network in order to enhance the system’s performance.
Edge computing continued to advance until it was able to resolve many of the problems
associated with cloud computing, as it provided elastic resources to end users at the edge of the
network, at a time when cloud computing could only provide resources distributed and hosted on
cloud data centers in the core network.

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This section defines edge computing, discusses its concept, introduces representative application
scenarios, and identifies various aspects of issues that may arise when designing and
implementing edge computing systems. It also highlights some opportunities and challenges and
serves as guidance for potential future work in related techniques.

1.2.1 Definition

Many definitions for edge computing have been proposed over the past years. However, no
standard definition exists. The most widely adopted definitions are as follows.

As defined by the authors in and, ‘Edge Computing refers to the enabling technologies allowing
computation to be performed at the edge of the network, on downstream data on behalf of cloud
services and upstream data on behalf of IoT services’. In, ‘Edge Computing is the model that
pushes localized processing in the advanced manner, i.e., closer to the data source’. As defined
in, ‘Edge Computing is an umbrella term covering the latest trend of bringing the computational
resources to the proximity of the end devices’. The author in stated that ‘Edge Computing is
moving processing close to where data is being generated’. Another work defined edge
computing as follows: ‘Edge Computing is a new paradigm in which substantial computing and
storage resources (variously referred to as cloudlets, micro data centers, or fog nodes) are placed
at the Internet’s edge in close proximity to mobile devices or sensors.’ In, ‘Edge Computing
refers to applications, services, and processing performed outside of a central data center and
closer to end users. The definition of “closer” falls along a spectrum and depends highly on
networking technologies used, the application characteristics, and the desired end user
experience’.

Edge computing can, therefore, be defined as the model that optimises cloud computing systems
by processing data close to its source at the edge of the network. It enables technologies to place
computing/storage resources at a close proximity to the data source, mainly to the edge of the
network.

1.2.2 Architecture

Edge architecture is a computing paradigm that processes data close to its source. This reduces
latency, enhances efficiency, and improves data security by minimizing the need for long-

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distance data transmission. Unlike traditional cloud computing, edge architecture decentralizes
processing tasks. It is particularly beneficial in scenarios requiring real-time data analysis. This
article explores edge computing, its architecture, components, benefits, and applications. We’ll
also discuss challenges, security considerations, and comparisons with other architectures.

Figure 1.1 Edge computing architecture

1.2.3 Characteristics

In general, IoT and edge computing have similar characteristics with regard to the IoT layer. On
the other hand, edge computing has a lot of common characteristics with fog computing.

The prime objectives of edge computing and fog computing are similar. Both models bring cloud
computing capabilities to the edge of the network. They enable the computation and storage
capacities located within a close proximity to end users to reduce service latency and to save
network bandwidth for delay-sensitive applications. Both edge and fog computing models have
distributed, hierarchical, and decentralized architectures which are different from the centralized
cloud computing architecture. Their service locations are also at a close proximity to end users.

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Table1.1 Characteristics of IoT, edge, fog, and cloud computing

Characteristic IoT Edge Edge Cloud

Deployment Distributed Distributed Distributed Centralized
Components Physical devices Edge nodes Fog nodes Virtual resources
Location awareness Aware Aware Aware Not aware
Computational Limited Limited Limited Unlimited
Storage Very limited Limited Limited Unlimited
Data Sources Process Process Process
Distance to data source The source The nearest Near Far
Response time No response time The fastest Fast Slow
Nodes count The largest Very large Large Small

1.2.4 Advantages

 Reduced Latency: Processing data closer to the source dramatically reduces the time it takes
to receive results, enabling real-time applications and faster response times. This is crucial
for applications like industrial automation, autonomous vehicles, and interactive gaming.
 Bandwidth Optimization: By processing data locally, edge computing reduces the amount
of data that needs to be sent to the cloud, conserving bandwidth and lowering network costs.
This is particularly important in areas with limited or expensive internet connectivity.
 Improved Security and Privacy: Sensitive data can be processed and stored locally,
reducing the risk of data breaches and improving compliance with data privacy regulations.
This is especially relevant for industries handling personal or confidential information.
 Increased Reliability and Resilience: Edge computing allows for continued operation even
when the connection to the cloud is disrupted. This is essential for critical applications that
cannot afford downtime, such as healthcare monitoring or industrial control systems.
 Enhanced Scalability: Distributing computing resources across numerous edge locations
makes it easier to scale applications and services to meet growing demands, without relying
solely on centralized cloud infrastructure.

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 Reduced Costs: While there are upfront costs associated with deploying edge infrastructure,
the long-term benefits can lead to cost savings. Reduced bandwidth usage, lower latency, and
increased efficiency can all contribute to a lower total cost of ownership.
 Better Performance for Real-time Applications: Edge computing is ideal for applications
that require real-time processing and analysis, such as video streaming, augmented reality,
and online gaming.
 Support for Offline Functionality: Edge devices can continue to function even when
disconnected from the network, allowing for offline data processing and storage.
 Enabling New Applications and Services: The capabilities of edge computing open up
possibilities for new applications and services that were not previously feasible, such as
advanced IoT solutions, AI-powered edge analytics, and location-based services.
 Improved User Experience: Lower latency and faster processing times translate to a better
user experience, particularly for applications that require real-time interactivity.
 Better Data Management: Edge computing allows for more efficient data management by
filtering and pre-processing data at the edge, reducing the amount of data that needs to be
stored and processed in the cloud.

1.2.4 Disadvantages

⦁ Security Risks: Distributing computing resources across numerous edge locations creates a
larger attack surface and increases the complexity of security management. Protecting edge
devices and gateways from cyber threats requires robust security measures.

⦁ Increased Complexity: Managing and orchestrating a distributed edge computing

infrastructure can be significantly more complex than managing a centralized cloud environment.
This includes deploying, configuring, monitoring, and maintaining edge devices and software.

⦁ Cost Considerations: Deploying and maintaining edge infrastructure involves upfront

investment in hardware, software, and networking equipment. While there can be long-term cost
savings, the initial investment can be a barrier for some organizations.

⦁ Data Management Challenges: Ensuring data consistency and integrity across a distributed
edge environment can be challenging. Mechanisms for data synchronization, backup, and
recovery are essential.

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⦁ Limited Processing Power and Storage: Edge devices typically have less processing power
and storage capacity compared to cloud servers. This can limit the complexity of tasks that can
be performed at the edge.

⦁ Bandwidth Limitations: While edge computing reduces bandwidth consumption compared to

centralized cloud computing, it still relies on network connectivity. Bandwidth limitations can
impact performance, especially for applications that require high data throughput.

⦁ Lack of Skilled Personnel: Managing and maintaining an edge computing infrastructure

requires specialized skills and expertise, which can be in short supply. Finding and retaining
qualified personnel can be a challenge.

⦁ Software and Hardware Compatibility: Ensuring compatibility between different edge

devices, gateways, and software platforms can be complex. Interoperability issues can arise,
particularly in heterogeneous edge environments.

⦁ Scalability Challenges: While edge computing offers the potential for enhanced scalability,
scaling edge deployments can be more challenging than scaling cloud infrastructure. Planning
and managing growth in a distributed environment requires careful consideration.

⦁ Physical Security Concerns: Edge devices deployed in remote or unsecured locations are
vulnerable to physical theft or damage. Protecting these devices requires appropriate physical
security measures.

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 Conclusions

Edge computing extends cloud computing by bringing the services closer to the end user at the
network edge. This chapter aims to explore the edge computing model. Although this model
offers numerous benefits, it presents many new challenges. The chapter highlights the
significance of edge computing as it provides an insight into its definition, architecture, and
distinguishing characteristics as compared to fog and cloud computing characteristics. It also
demonstrates the applications the edge computing enables. There is a need to address the
challenges of adopting the edge computing model, as this model will become the core
component of the future computing landscape. The chapter serves as a guideline for related
future directions.

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 References

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[Link] 24thWorld Congress on Engineering and Com puter Science (WCECS 2016),
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for energy efficient cloud data centers. Journal of Sustainable Computing: Informatics and
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[4] Satyanarayanan M. The emergence of edge computing. Computer. 2017; 50(1):30–39.