Cloud computing, fog computing, and edge computing

 

Cloud computing, fog computing, and edge computing are three different approaches to processing and storing data from edge devices.

The main difference between cloud, fog and edge computing is defined by where data from edge devices is processed and stored. Cloud servers are placed away from the edge, while fog is pulled closer to reduce the time needed to process data and respond to events faster¹.

In cloud computing, data is processed on a central cloud server, which is usually located far away from the source of information³. Edge computing brings processing and storage systems as close as possible to the application, device, or component that generates and collects data. This helps minimize processing time by removing the need for transferring data to a central processing system and back to the endpoint².

Fog computing addresses this problem by inserting a processing layer between the edge and the cloud. This way, the ‘fog computer’ receives the data gathered at the edge and processes it before it reaches the cloud. Fog computing also differentiates between relevant and irrelevant data. While relevant data is sent to the cloud for storage, irrelevant data is either deleted or transmitted to the appropriate local platform².

Source: Conversation with Bing, 5/1/2023

(1) Differences Between Cloud, Fog and Edge Computing | Digiteum. https://www.digiteum.com/cloud-fog-edge-computing-iot/.

(2) Cloud, Fog, and Edge Computing: 3 Differences That Matter. https://dzone.com/articles/cloud-vs-fog-vs-edge-computing-3-differences-that.

(3) Edge Computing vs. Fog Computing: 10 Key Comparisons. https://www.spiceworks.com/tech/cloud/articles/edge-vs-fog-computing/.

(4) What's the Difference Between Cloud, Edge, and Fog Computing?. https://www.xenonstack.com/blog/cloud-edge-fog-computing.

(5) Edge & Cloud & Fog Computing: What Is The Difference Between Them. https://www.knowledgenile.com/blogs/edge-cloud-fog-computing-what-is-the-difference-between-them/.