Edge computing

Edge computing means handling data close to where it's created, on a device or a small computer on site, instead of sending everything to a distant data centre. It matters when speed or a patchy internet connection is a problem. A self-driving car can't wait for the cloud to decide whether to brake. For a small business, edge computing shows up quietly. A payment terminal that keeps taking cards when the internet drops is one example. A security camera that spots movement on the device before uploading is another. You rarely need to build anything yourself. When buying equipment for a venue or shop, ask whether it keeps working offline, because that's edge computing earning its keep.