Edge IT is playing an important role in helping enterprises process large volumes of data without adding paralyzing congestion to the network. The data is analyzed and mined for insights as close as possible to where it is collected, allowing for real-time application of information. As the edge grows in importance and complexity, managing infrastructure requires an updated approach.

Edge IT includes a wide variety of technology, from collecting inventory information for companies storing bulk liquids to determining the ideal timing of certain steps in a manufacturing plant. It even includes gathering critical data for deployed military. While each of these are unique types of technology, what they have in common is serving as the data entry point.

Edge computing has added complexity for IT teams, and managing infrastructure requires a new approach that eliminates complexity and security issues that occur with a more traditional strategy:

Minimizing infrastructure: The growth of edge computing has caused IT to be tasked with the maintenance of too many locations, creating a cost-prohibitive complexity that forces them to choose between critical management functions. Enterprises that want to digitize for competitiveness should consider taking steps to minimize the edge infrastructure so that management can be scaled to support the diversity of the edge.

Reduction of operational complexity: In order to support the kinds of large-scale edge device launches that come with the Internet of Things (IoT) or a rapid growth trajectory, enterprises must reduce the operational complexity of the edge. An increasingly common approach is the introduction of software-defined management tools that offer centralized visibility and control, as well as flexibility and agility to respond quickly to business decisions.

Protecting edge data: Industry regulations combined with the large amount of data collected introduces high levels of vulnerability at the edge. A threat at an edge device can impact business continuity and result in significant data loss, creating a crisis for the business. While you can access a traditional remote backup, a better approach is to centralize data storage and management at the data center, where it is better protected with higher-grade infrastructure management and trained IT staff.

Prioritize availability: If there’s a failure at the edge, it’s paramount that data integrity and application availability are maintained. This is more challenging with a traditional infrastructure, and becomes more complex as the volume of data collected increases. Traditional backup plans are not a good solution because the network becomes congested. Investing in the resiliency of the network and a strategic path for recovery should be prioritized to ensure the availability of both data and applications.

If your enterprise is experiencing increasing complexity at the edge, contact us at Diversified Technology Group to learn more about managing infrastructure. From centralizing control to finding a modern approach to data backup, we can help you protect your edge technology and make it more efficient.