Why does the future of the Industrial IoT require edge computing and fog computing

Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) applications, which typically require scalability and flexibility, may not need to choose between fog computing and edge computing, as enterprises may need both.

With the rise of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), new technologies are being introduced every day to process the vast amounts of data being generated. And identifying these new technologies is a challenge for businesses and industrial companies alike. For example, the terms "edge computing" and "fog computing" are often used interchangeably because they both involve pushing intelligence and processing power closer to where they originated. While there are clear differences between how and why which type of infrastructure is deployed, both are critical to a successful industrial IoT strategy.

To prepare for the future of the Industrial IoT, it is imperative to adopt next-generation solutions including edge computing and fog computing in order to scale the networked devices, networks, and applications of the future. Here's how an enterprise can better distinguish between edge computing and fog computing, and how to deploy them.

The difference between edge calculation and fog calculation

In short, edge computing is an underlying technology architecture that can collect, analyze, and store data onsite in a production facility (equipment) to save time and help maintain operations, rather than relying on slower systems that store all data in the cloud. Edge computing has had a significant impact on maintaining uptime and providing near real-time data and analysis to optimize the performance of the Industrial IoT and industrial automation for the future. While some departments are still adapting and adjusting to the edges, the next wave of data communication between devices and networks is coming: fog computing.

Fog computing is a form of cloud computing that is closer to the edge, so it can process large amounts of data without having to push it into the cloud. Fog computing will enhance the capabilities of the Edge by handling real-time IoT requests between the Edge and the data center cloud. While these expected benefits make fog computing seem like a smart move for companies looking to expand their networks using the Industrial IoT, it is important to consider whether fog computing is required for all levels of operations. So when should you implement fog calculation? Beyond the current industrial automation and edge networks, fog computing will become an integral part of large networked systems and share data between thousands or millions of networked devices.

For companies with more isolated and personalized infrastructure, atomization deployment may not be necessary. This level of integration may take years, but understanding and implementing edge computing and fog computing is critical to a successful industrial IoT strategy.

Deploying for the Industrial IoT: Where to Start?

Understanding the different applications and extensibility of edge computing and fog computing makes it easier to determine which is best for your environment. This is especially true because both options are equipped with next-generation Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) capabilities and are important steps in preparing for future large-scale integration. In an industrial environment, edge computing is sufficient to meet the data and analysis needs of multiple facilities in the system, but for industries preparing for massive expansion, fog computing may be a better choice for long-term growth and success.

Applied edge computing can be the next step towards industrial IoT integration, which will set the stage for the future of automation. The need to optimize efficiency, productivity, and quality has prompted manufacturers to move their intelligence to the edge of the network to process data faster and respond to competitive pressures. This system is valuable for facilities with many outposts, such as hundreds of oil RIGS, all connected to a central data center. Installing edge servers on oil RIGS allows them to share data more quickly and process data closer to the edge of the network, rather than sending it to the cloud for processing, which could delay system performance or abnormal alerts.

Moving beyond closed networks and systems, we will begin to see fog computing enabling more of the future of connected devices and embracing the potential of the Industrial Internet of Things. Fog computing is closer to the edge, which means it can process real-time IoT processing requests faster and reduce delays in sharing data between networks. Outside of the industrial network, fog computing can help different industries and sectors scale up to connect thousands or millions of edge devices.

One example is the development of driverless cars. Fog computing along the smart network will allow driverless cars to communicate instantaneously on highways and handle computing needs in real time to improve speed, efficiency and safety when crossing busy intersections. As the driverless car industry grows and mainstream applications emerge, fog computing is crucial for sharing data between thousands of vehicles.

Next Generation Edge Architecture

What will this network of millions of edge computing and fog computing devices look like? While the cities of the future are still hard to imagine, laying the groundwork now is the best way to prepare for further automation and expansion of networks that will cover greater distances but communicate at faster speeds. Fog will fill in the gaps between the edges and allow instant communication between networks of devices in the ecosystem. This new level of coordination will be necessary for the infrastructure of the future, which will connect smart devices such as traffic lights, pedestrian crossings and driverless cars.

Smart cities cover more than just equipment -- they will connect utilities such as electricity and water to save energy use and manage water distribution, as well as control energy demand during peak hours of the day. Fog is the link between all these systems, communicating their requirements, coordinating these unrelated devices and networks to analyze appropriate operations. By preparing for the next generation of edge architectures now, industries and cities can analyze and embrace the potential of fog computing. With the enhanced capabilities of the Industrial Internet of Things, more networks will be connected and expanded to meet our daily needs, creating smarter home, building, and urban networks.

Why the future of the Industrial Internet of Things needs edge computing and fog computing