Security seen as top application for edge infrastructure

Improving cybersecurity is the top driver for the adoption of edge computing infrastructure among enterprise organisations, according to new research released by Schneider Electric.

A survey of over 1000 IT and operations professionals across seven international markets, conducted by IDC, found that 50% of organisations investing in edge computing cited improving cybersecurity as among their reasons for investing in the technology.

In addition, 44% of respondents cited improving systems resiliency and reliability as a driver. And cybersecurity systems for monitoring the operational network locally was considered the top use case for edge infrastructure, cited by nearly 70% of respondents.

Other popular applications include storing and processing operational data to bring it to the cloud, utilising imaging, video or related capabilities for physical security and inspections, and using edge infrastructure to process automation systems including robots and autonomous vehicles.

But at the same time, physical and cybersecurity concerns were cited as being among the top challenges to overcome when transitioning to digital-first connected operations enabled by edge computing.

Other challenges include the lack of internal skills to execute across technology settings, as well as the reliability of edge infrastructure.

Meanwhile, many organisations report connectivity and power outage concerns, with 32% of respondents having already experienced a lack of connectivity or slow connectivity with their data centre deployments, and 31% having experienced a utility power outage or power surge lasting more than 60 seconds.

“Resilient edge resources are the foundation for shifting to digital-first, connected operations,” IDC Research Director for Edge Strategies Jennifer Cooke said.

“Organisations will become vulnerable if and when their technology fails. To futureproof edge deployments, leaders must develop a strategy that addresses concerns, such as cybersecurity and connectivity issues, and ensures access to the skills required to maintain resilient edge infrastructures.”

According to the research, futureproofing edge capabilities for digital-first connected operations will require including resilient power and connectivity resources early in the edge planning phases to reduce the risk of downtime.

Edge resources should also be equipped to support continuous remote monitoring and autonomous operation. Organisations should also consider recruiting trusted partners capable of providing skills and resources to manage edge infrastructure in areas where it is not economically feasible to do so themselves.

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