In response to the exponential growth of connected devices and the ever increasing demand for faster processing speeds, network operators and telecommunications companies are racing to deploy fifth generation wireless (5G). Although 5G is still in its infancy, the technology endeavors to have the capacity to handle the volume of data transport that will support emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning. We’re at the brink of the emergence of 5G, and enterprises can prepare by leveraging edge computing to deliver significantly lower latency.
In a recent article published in the Washington Post, Larry Downes dives into how 5G will influence innovation in our modern world. It will enable the development of connected devices across industries. While the Internet of Things (IoT) is often associated with consumer devices likes smart appliances or fitness trackers, 5G will, more importantly, enable deployments of new technologies that require near-instantaneous data delivery including smart energy grids, connected infrastructure, autonomous vehicles and telemedicine.
Downes explains that each industry will see 5G’s application in different ways. In the healthcare industry, for example, Downes says 5G will play a crucial role in the development of prosthetic devices and health monitors that can constantly collect data to aid in recovery. These monitors might also require that the data is analyzed in real-time. In order to create an environment where data is collected, processed and delivered at the fastest speed possible, providers should consider how edge computing can facilitate these 5G enabled technologies.
The anticipated deployment of 5G presents a huge opportunity for enterprises – with increased bandwidth and the possibility for ultra-low latency, businesses will be able to innovate beyond what can be supported by today’s 4G network, and deliver the best experience to employees and customers.
Edge computing brings data collection and processing to edge data centers closest to where the data is produced, eliminating the challenges that arise when delivering data to a centralized cloud and thus bypassing detrimental latency causing points and distances. As the number of connected devices grow and expectations for rapid data transmission rise, enterprises will look to limit the distance between the data source and the end user. Leveraging interconnected edge data centers provides businesses with direct cloud on-ramps and access to an ecosystem of carriers and network providers, enabling enterprises to keep pace with the increasing processing demands.
Ultra-low latency will become a ‘must’ in the approaching 5G world, and in the meantime, enterprises should prepare by bringing data processing closer to the user and leveraging a flexible environment that offers unparalleled connectivity.
To learn more about how interconnected edge data centers enable 5G technology, download our white paper.
