How 5G and edge computing enhance each other

5G and edge computing are two of the most important technologies of the digital era. They’re each impressive on their own. But they also synergize, providing complementary strengths. Combining them provides the potential for enterprises to:

• Revolutionize the way we use technology
• Create new use cases
• Drive digital transformation

However, there will also be challenges for enterprises trying to simultaneously leverage both 5G and edge computing technologies.

5G offers greater speed and bandwidth, lower latency

5G is the fifth generation of mobile network technology, and it promises faster data speeds, higher bandwidth, and low latency — with response times of 1 millisecond or less. 5G networks are also capable of handling more connected devices than ever before, making them ideal for the Internet of Things (IoT).

The advantages 5G networks have over previous generations of mobile network technology make it ideal for applications such as video streaming, gaming, and augmented and virtual reality. 5G networks also provide the potential for more reliable and secure connections, as well as the ability to provide ultra-low latency for real-time applications.

Edge computing reduces latency and improves response times

Edge computing is a distributed computing model in which data processing and storage are moved away from the cloud and closer to the edges of the network — such as end-user devices, hubs, and private networks. This allows for faster response times and lower latency, and it also reduces the need for large-scale cloud computing resources.

By moving data processing closer to the source, it enables applications such as augmented and virtual reality, gaming, and real-time analytics. And by reducing the need for large-scale cloud computing resources, it provides savings in terms of both time and money.

Enhanced digital transformation via 5G and edge computing

Combining 5G and edge computing provides the potential to revolutionize the way we use technology. 5G networks provide the faster speeds and higher bandwidth needed to support edge technologies, while edge computing reduces the need for large-scale cloud computing resources. This creates a powerful ecosystem of telecommunications, cloud, and edge technologies, enabling a digital transformation that can leverage new applications and services, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Combined technologies support new use cases

By combining 5G and edge computing, enterprises gain the benefits of both in tandem. Faster speeds, higher bandwidth, low latency, and less need for large-scale cloud computing resources enable access to powerful new use cases, some of which are noted below.

Increased connectivity

5G and edge computing provide increased connectivity for businesses, allowing them to access faster, more reliable data speeds with less downtime. This increased connectivity can be used to power a variety of use cases, such as remote working, virtual reality, self-driving cars, and more. By leveraging 5G and edge computing, businesses can create more efficient and cost-effective systems that can improve customer experience and productivity.

Smart cities

Smart cities are becoming increasingly popular, and 5G and edge computing can play a critical role in powering these cities. By leveraging them both, cities can create smarter and more efficient infrastructure, such as smart grids, autonomous vehicles, and more. This increased connectivity and efficiency can help reduce energy consumption and improve the quality of life in the city.

Industrial automation

5G and edge computing can be used to automate processes such as manufacturing, monitoring, and maintenance. The increased efficiency provided by automation can help reduce costs and improve productivity, while also allowing for the implementation of new technologies, such as robotics and artificial intelligence, which can further enhance operational efficiency.

Healthcare

Advanced healthcare applications, such as real-time patient monitoring, medical imaging, and telemedicine, benefit greatly from the high-bandwidth, low-latency connectivity offered by 5G and edge computing. This increased connectivity can help improve patient care and access to healthcare services.

Retail

There are also a variety of retail applications, such as augmented reality and contactless payment, that rely on 5G’s greater bandwidth and speed, and edge computing’s real-time, low-latency capabilities. With these two technologies, retailers can improve the customer experience and leverage more efficient and cost-effective information and communication systems.

Complex network infrastructure is a combination challenge

Combining 5G and edge computing is not without its challenges. One of the biggest is the need for more complex network infrastructure, as well as the ability to orchestrate and manage edge technologies. Additionally, all service providers must have an in-depth understanding of their customer’s needs and how to optimize their network and data processing capabilities.

Inseego helps to solve these challenges by providing an end-to-end platform that enables service providers to quickly and easily deploy 5G and edge technologies. Our SD Edge platform is powered by Microsoft Azure, providing telcos with the computing power and network infrastructure needed to optimize the customer experience. Telcos using our platform can easily optimize edge solutions and 5G networks with all the necessary tools for automation, orchestration, and data processing workloads.