The momentum at which technology is moving is very rapid, we are now living in a connected world where more people are connected than ever before. Internet of things

The momentum at which technology is moving is very rapid, we are now living in a connected world where more people are connected than ever before. Internet of things (IoT)  simply means the connective network of billions of physical devices commonly seen around us that are connected to the internet. 

These devices manufacture data in astonishing volumes, management, and storage of which are equally essential. However, such data do not have any use in their original form unless they are mined for valuable information. This requires domain-specific knowledge, productive experience, and the technical know-how of real professionals. 

To fulfill the increasing demand for various IoT applications and services, leading ICT is working with their own cloud-based IoT platforms for data-centric services. IoT and edge computing are two closely related technologies that play a lead role in all this. Let's look at the two terms ;

For a better understanding of IoT, it's advisable to know what an embedded system is. Most small devices (like thermostats)  need an operating system to work. The issue is that the internal storage on these devices is relatively small and permanently glued to the computer board, hence the only option for an operating system is one that has a very small footprint and can perform with the tiniest aids. 

An embedded system seizes the advantage of such an operating system and performs as a combination of CPU, memory, and input /output peripheral devices that are all attached to a singular function (such as powering the thermostat). IoT devices are suited with sensors which makes them look so smart. These sensors help in receiving information leading to the creation of large volumes of data. 

An IoT gateway functions as a router and sends the data to the cloud through several data protocols, like MQTT (MQ Telemetry Transport) and HTTP. Once the data enters the cloud, analytical tools process the data and extract crucial information. This information is then mailed back to the end user via API. Let's go over three examples of IoT ;

There are various applications of IoT, but these should be enough to give a clear idea of how common and useful IoT is. Now let's discuss edge computing ;

Edge computing, which is also known as fog or microprocessing, decentralizes IoT devices by processing cloud applications and services right at the edge. These edge devices are close to things and people, hence they can process data in actual time with no latency. 

This implies that they don't have to depend on information being sent to the cloud, then back down again. The major advantage of edge computing is to lessen network congestion and latency, which are common difficulties of IoT devices. 

Likewise, IoT, let's go over a few edge computing examples to understand the practical applications;

How does IoT and edge computing work together? 

Both systems work together to provide a faster, more productive way of receiving and processing data. Edge computing works on real-time data processing, which curbs network congestion and latency. This facilitates a more seamless experience for the end user, as well as improved efficiency.  IoT devices can also function as a getaway to the cloud, which authorizes even more data collection and analysis. Together, IoT and edge computing offers an inclusive solution for data processing and management. 

Difference between IoT and edge computing 

Although both ecosystems share many similarities, they are completely different technologies for different purposes. Let's look at their differences ;

The division between IoT and edge computing can occasionally be razor thin because IoT can be assigned as edge computing devices. The heftiest difference is the capacity to not just evaluate data in real-time locally, but sync That data to a centralized server at a time when it's stable and feasible to transmit. Both ecosystems (IoT and edge computing)  are here to stay,  as they carry out various essential functions in business and society. 

IoT VS Edge Computing: What's the Difference?

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