Edge computing is another one of those buzzwords we see zinging around the world of IT. Buzzwords tend to get a bad rap, but edge computing is actually a popular way of modeling IT infrastructure in response to cloud computing. But as the popularity of edge computing increasing, edge security also becomes more important.
Unfortunately, it's not as simple as securing the device itself. Edge computing brings its own set of risk factors that need to be addressed.
What Is Edge Computing?
Edge computing refers to the geographic location of the computing. This computing is done at or close to the source of the data. Edge computing is often the computing that happens at the edge of the network. For example, if an organization has branch offices, edge computing would be computing that happens at the branch instead of within the core of the network, such as a data center or a cloud.
Edge computing isn't meant to compete with cloud computing, but rather support it.
What Is Edge Computing Security?
Edge security is applying security practices to network nodes that are outside the network core. There are several aspects that go into edge security:
- Perimeter security. Access to resources is secured via encrypted funnels, firewalls, and access control.
- Application security. In addition to network security, applications themselves need to be secured.
- Threat detection. Since edge computing isn't centralized, proactive threat detection needs to be employed to identify potential issues early.
- Patching. Automated patching is necessary to keep devices up to date.
The Future of Edge Computing
With an increase of computing needs are the edge, companies are working to meet the demand. One way is through AI functionality to improve processing capacity at the edge.
Historically, AI algorithms have required a large amount of processing power to run, therefore they needed cloud-based services. As AI chipsets grow, they are beginning to be able handle the processing power needed and work at the edge.
Since many security initiatives involve AI, this growth will also translate to securing the edge.
How Anteris Can Help
There are multiple ways that edge computing can be deployed and secured. At Anteris, virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) and edge servers are two iterations that we're already doing.
Looking back at the definition of edge computing, our edge servers allow base functions such as Domain Name System (DNS), Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), Network Time Protocol (NTP), and more to live at the perimeter of the network and still connect back to our data center.
VDI allows us to connect any device to our data center to benefit from our enterprise-level security, scalability, and flexibility.
Let us make your technology freeing, not frustrating.
