November 23, 2022
Managing edge devices in a remote working environment
Businesses all over the world are rapidly shifting to remote working and cloud computing. This necessitates more effective orchestration and management of edge devices. Enterprises must find a seamless way to integrate their infrastructure, services and applications into a cohesive IT ecosystem because edge computing takes computing and storage closer to data sources.
Without the proper tools or digital services partners, remote working can make IT networks more complex and challenging to track. The proper management of edge devices is necessary in the age of the distributed workforce. Enterprises must ensure that all software and systems are operating as expected and that all devices are securely connected to the company network.
Failure to do so will result in disruptions, costly downtime and poor productivity. Modern edge device management calls for an intelligent system that can be controlled and monitored from a single point. This is where network architectures like software-defined wide area networks (SD-WAN) excel.
SEACOM Business is a leading connectivity and IT services provider in Kenya. To provide dependable connectivity systems, cloud computing environments and robust cyber security solutions, we collaborate with many large enterprises in the region. We understand the importance of managing edge devices in a remote working environment.
How to effectively manage edge devices
Enterprises must look into networking and software solutions that enable them to manage all connected devices from a single, remote location. This will allow them to automatically perform software updates, security patches and other functions on connected devices from a central console.
It also ensures that all edge devices are functioning properly and continue to be securely connected to the company network, saving IT teams from having to travel to various branches and reducing the need for employee training and micromanagement. Endpoint protection is essential for preventing data leaks and hacks in an age where cyber threats are prevalent.
Consider the hardware required for edge orchestration; a reliable server with high bandwidth connections is needed. Furthermore, robust connectivity is essential for managing edge devices from a central location. The entire process could break down if the network fails or connections drop. An excellent solution is to use fibre connections that have redundancy built in.
Lastly, look for applications that can be deployed widely and used with edge computing. Business applications must be functional and accessible on edge devices as they no longer reside on a central server but are instead spread out among the devices. IT teams can efficiently orchestrate and manage edge devices if all of these processes are combined.
Benefits of effective edge orchestration
Companies will gain the following benefits by properly implementing processes to manage their edge devices:
- More effective edge computing with centralised management and oversight.
- Increased digital performance and employee productivity.
- Decreased connectivity issues and digital downtime.
- Better cyber security posture as edge devices remain protected against various threats.
Where companies go wrong
Connectivity is the biggest barrier to successful edge orchestration. Edge computing will fail without reliable, secure and robust connectivity. Bandwidth and latency become crucial network components for data-intensive applications or for enterprises with thousands of connected devices.
Due to its capacity for high bandwidth transmissions with very low latency, fibre continues to be one of the most reliable and effective connections for businesses. Additionally, it is a secure way to transmit data from edge devices to central servers. SD-WAN network users will benefit from improved connectivity and optimised routing through fibre connections.
Another area of concern is the complexity of edge computing. Some companies lack the understanding or the necessary time to set it up properly. However, without effective management, complexity only grows and utterly defeats the point and advantages of edge computing.
Working with a single vendor or service provider who has the requisite tools and skills is one way to reduce complexity. In this endeavour, customer support will be critical, so choose a partner with a solid reputation and round-the-clock support. Experts from SEACOM Business are available to assist your business with its cloud computing needs.
Effective edge device management is essential for remote working. For certain businesses, moving to the edge makes sense, but IT teams must prioritise control and orchestration. For more information or to get a quote for our connectivity and computing services, email us at marketing@seacom.com or leave us a message.
SEACOM owns Africa’s largest network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including fibre optic networks and subsea cables. We offer a wide range of industry-leading scalable ICT solutions for large companies that operate throughout the region.
SEACOM is privately owned - making it adaptable to the needs of the client. We are the preferred ICT and internet connectivity supplier for African enterprises. We can guarantee fast, reliable and secure internet and networking services at affordable prices.
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