What is an Edge Server?

Edge Server

A server that exists at the edge of a network in order to reduce latency is known as an edge server. It is a powerful computer which is present at the edge of a network where computation occurs. An edge server is physically near the applications and the systems which create the data that is used by and/or stored on the server. Edge servers have a significant role in edge computing, which involves bringing computation and data storage near the location where these are required. This is done to achieve an improvement in response time and save bandwidth.

Apps can be deployed to devices by using edge servers. These servers are constantly communicating with devices with the help of agents that are installed on these devices.

There are two types of edge servers, which are edge compute servers and content delivery network (CDN) edge servers. These are described in more detail in the following section.

Edge Compute Servers

An edge compute server provides compute resources at the network edge and is deployed strategically in order to reduce latency. Such a server delivers functionality that has to do with data processing of IoT (Internet of Things) applications as well as 5G networks.

CDN Edge Servers

A CDN edge server is deployed at edge locations and point of presence (PoPs) across a content delivery network. It makes cached versions of static content available to users from origin servers. Such a server provides content in the form of images, HTML, JavaScript as well as downloadable content. It reduces the workload of origin servers along with reducing latency for users.

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Advantages of Edge Computing

Since edge servers involve edge computing, it is important to know the benefits that edge computing provides.

Speed- Edge computing is capable of increasing network speed through reduced latency. It aids in significantly reducing the distance by processing data near the source of the information. This helps to increase the overall quality as well as speed.

Scalability- Edge computing serves to scale an IoT network without the need to worry about requirements that have to do with storage.

Security- In edge computing only the relevant information is sent to the cloud which aids in reducing the probability of hacking.

Reliability- The users of edge computing do not need to be worried about network failures or even slow Internet connectivity. In it data can be stored and processed locally with the aid of microdata centers. This assures a reliable connection for IoT devices.

Cost- When edge computing is used for IoT, it lets users reduce the data storage needs as well as the bandwidth and substitutes data centers with device solutions. This helps to reduce significantly the cost that is involved in the implementation of IoT device and applications. Since only the relevant data is sent to the cloud, reducing network bandwidth, the overall infrastructural costs are reduced.

Source:https://www.htshosting.org/knowledge-base/dedicated-server/37/what-is-an-edge-server