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Multi Access Edge Computing (MEC​)

MEC stands for Multi-Access Edge Computing, which refers to an architecture where computing units or cloud computing capabilities are placed at the edge of the network, often within the service provider’s infrastructure.

The key reason for placing computing resources at the network edge is to reduce processing and data transmission latency, which can result from long distances or network congestion. MEC enables data and applications to be processed close to where the data is generated, rather than relying on centralized processing such as public clouds or centralized data centers.

The usage of MEC (Multi-Access Edge Computing) can be better understood by considering its meaning, as follows:

Multi-Access

A computing system that supports multiple types of connectivity, including LTE, 5G, Wi-Fi, and leased lines.

Edge

Relocating computing systems to the edge of the network—within the wireless or cellular network, so they are as close to end users as possible.

Computing

A computing system that supports applications requiring intensive processing and rapid, real-time responses to users.

Key Differences Between Public Cloud and MEC

Explore the connectivity diagram below to better understand the differences between using a traditional cloud and MEC.

Running Applications on a Traditional Public Cloud

Running the application on a traditional public cloud showing that the data transmission must pass through multiple network layers and out to the internet before reaching the public cloud. This process introduces latency, resulting in higher delays compared to MEC.Therefore, traditional cloud usage is better suited for systems or applications focused on data storage or non-real-time processing, where immediate responses to users are not required. /p>

Running Applications on MEC

Using MEC by placing the computing architecture as close to the network as possible reduces data transmission latency to extremely low levels. When combined with 5G networks, MEC can achieve latency below 20 ms. This makes MEC highly suitable for systems or applications that require low latency, fast data processing, and real-time responsiveness to users.

On Premise Server vs. MEC

Placing computing at the user’s location, such as deploying an on-premise server at the customer site, can indeed help reduce processing time and data transmission latency. However, there are several key differences between this approach and MEC, such as:

InvestmentUsing an on-premise server requires an up-front investment in hardware and software, as well as engineering staff to manage and maintain the system. In contrast, MEC operates under a service-based model similar to cloud services, where users pay based on usage and can shift the burden of managing and maintaining the infrastructure to the service provider.

Scalability : Although an on-premise server can technically scale up or down based on an organization’s needs, the actual process is often complex, time-consuming, and requires significant effort. In contrast, MEC is designed with high flexibility in scaling computing resources. Adjustments, whether increasing or reducing capacity, can be made easily through a centralized platform, enabling quick and convenient scaling aligned with real usage demands.

 

Security : Storing or processing data on an on-premise server within the organization provides a certain level of security. However, this depends heavily on the organization’s cybersecurity practices, including regular software updates to ensure systems remain modern and protected against cyber threats.

MEC also offers a high level of privacy and security, as data is processed close to the user. The connectivity can be designed with enhanced security measures to further strengthen data privacy. Additionally, MEC is built on established security standards and continuously receives cybersecurity updates from the service provider, ensuring strong and reliable data protection.

Application Use Cases Compatible with MEC

AR/VR

AR/VR applications require real-time data processing to deliver an exciting and immersive user experience. Using MEC helps reduce data-processing latency, thereby improving the application's overall performance.

Autonomous Vehicle

Autonomous vehicles require real-time data processing for accurate decision-making and navigation. MEC provides the high-speed data transmission and computing power needed for rapid processing, allowing vehicles to quickly respond to changing road and environmental conditions.

Industrial Automation

Industrial automation requires low latency to control machinery effectively. MEC enhances system responsiveness and performance, enabling faster and more efficient operations.

Emergency Service

Emergency alert systems require extremely fast response times to deliver timely warnings and notifications. MEC enhances alerting capabilities by significantly reducing latency and shortening the data transmission distance for emergency notifications.

Key Benefits of MEC for Businesses

Ultra Low-Latency

Bringing computation closer to users or devices reduces the distance and time required for data transmission, enabling a near real-time response.

Enterprise Grade Privacy & Security

MEC enhances data privacy and security through its architecture, which places processing within the network. This eliminates the need to send sensitive information over the internet to public cloud platforms unnecessarily.

Scalability

MEC architecture enables automatic resource scaling based on demand. Applications can utilize resources as needed, ensuring optimal performance during peak usage periods without excessive resource allocation.

Improve Reliability

By distributing computing resources at the network edge, MEC improves overall system reliability and reduces dependency on a single centralized cloud platform.

Infrastructure for Future

MEC is positioned as a key infrastructure that enables advanced digital experiences by unlocking new services such as AI, video analytics, and Industry 4.0 applications.

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AIS 5G Solution: MEC

ระบบคลาวด์ให้เข้าใกล้ผู้ใช้งานมากที่สุด ช่วยให้สามารถใช้งานเครือข่ายด้วยการเข้าถึงแบบไร้สาย เพื่อให้บริการประมวลผลผ่านระบบคลาวด์ได้ในปริมาณมากและมีความปลอดภัยสูงสุด

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