Multi-access Edge Computing – Part 3: 5 ways to use MEC in the near future

Review the above:

• Multi-access Edge Computing – Part 1: How does Multi-access Edge Computing work?
• Multi-access Edge Computing – Part 2: Security Challenges of Securing MEC

Multi-access edge computing (MEC) seems set to play an important role in the near future and throughout the Fourth Industrial Revolution and beyond. For this reason, it is important to understand how and where we need to use MEC.

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In Part 2 of this series, we looked at the security of multi-access edge computing systems and the threats they face. In this third and final part of the multi-access edge computing series, we will explore five ways in which MEC technology will be used in the near future.

1. Autonomous and connected cars

From a neutral perspective, connected and driverless cars are likely the most exciting MEC use cases, as they involve more than just two young cutting-edge technologies, which are currently being trialed around the world. One of the key elements of driverless vehicles or connected cars is the ability to communicate with other connected vehicles and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) and infrastructure.

To achieve this, multiple service providers are using cloudlets to enable real-time communication between connected vehicles, infrastructure, and ITS systems. This information can then be used to alert other vehicles of nearby vehicles, send data about hazards or environmental conditions, and even alert them to the presence of emergency services vehicles, allowing them to take appropriate action.

2. Video Analysis

With the growing volume of big data driving many of the technological innovations we have today, the use of video analytics has become increasingly common in a variety of different industrial and commercial settings. As artificial intelligence and automation systems continue to advance, these technologies are becoming essential tools in most video-based applications.

MEC video analytics allows for deeper, closer analysis to the source of the data being analyzed, significantly reducing latency. Using video analytics has many benefits, such as detailed security information and surveillance data, and also enables retailers to better track customers' in-store browsing habits.

3. Strengthen the network

As networks need to be more available and robust, multi-access edge computing may also be used to improve the overall performance of networks in industrial and enterprise settings, as well as other environments such as university campuses and government facilities.

The large number of people connecting to the network in the various examples outlined above will cause high latency issues and result in poor connection quality for all users. Using MEC to address this issue may be the best solution for many organizations because it will allow more users to connect simultaneously without these issues.

4. Internet of Things

The continued expansion of the Internet of Things is both a sign of how innovative the technology is and what will be around in the near future. It is estimated that by 2020, the number of IoT devices will be in the billions, and we can already feel their impact on our business and personal lives today.

In IoT systems, collecting, processing and storing the data generated by these devices closer to their source has various benefits and will likely eventually play a key role in enabling technologies such as driverless cars and more advanced intelligent transportation systems.

5. Virtual and augmented reality

Over the past few years, one of the biggest trends in business and entertainment has been augmented and virtual reality applications.

Both technologies require real-time data communication, low latency, and flexible networks to achieve advanced functions, and multi-access edge computing will be the best solution.

In the future, it is not impossible to assume that businesses and organizations will continue to implement augmented and virtual reality tools and services to further enhance and virtualize certain business operations. The success of wearable technologies such as Microsoft HoloLens will further drive investment and development of augmented and virtual reality applications within the workplace, thus requiring more advanced MEC systems.

Original link:

https://www.lanner-america.com/blog/multi-access-edge-computing-part-3-5-ways-mec-will-used-tomorrow-not-distant-future/