The Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC)

- Overview

Scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness make cloud computing the platform of choice for application development and delivery. However, most data generated by end users and connected devices may never reach the cloud due to privacy requirements, latency constraints, and the high costs associated with pushing large amounts of data to the cloud.

IoT applications benefit from access to "native cloud services" running close to the connection. "Sensitive" information is protected locally by analyzing telemetry data at the edge of the cloud, minimizing latency for time-critical applications. , and only needs to push very little data like the cloud.

By processing data locally - MEC applications significantly reduce the amount of data pushed to the cloud, thereby significantly reducing the associated cloud storage and processing costs.

Multi-access edge computing (MEC) transforms the 5G mobile communication network into a distributed cloud computing platform running at the edge of the mobile access network. MEC's ​​proximity to end users and connected devices enables mobile network operators (MNOs) to open their networks to new differentiated services while providing application developers and content providers with the benefits of the edge cloud.

- The Main Features of MEC

Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) is a technology that brings cloud computing capabilities closer to the network edge, allowing for data processing and storage near the end user, resulting in significantly reduced latency and enabling real-time applications by minimizing the need to send data to a distant data center; essentially, it moves computing power closer to where the data is generated, providing faster response times for applications requiring ultra-low latency. 

The main features about MEC:

• Location: Instead of processing data in a centralized cloud, MEC performs computations at the network edge, near the source of the data.
• Benefits: Reduces latency, enhances real-time performance for applications like augmented reality, and enables new services by leveraging local network information.
• Applications: Ideal for use cases requiring fast response times, such as industrial automation, autonomous vehicles, live streaming, and IoT devices.
• Integration with 5G: MEC is often discussed in relation to 5G networks, as the high bandwidth and low latency of 5G make it particularly suitable for edge computing.

- The 5G Edge and MEC Technology

5G Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) is a cloud computing evolution that moves computing power closer to the network's edge, which improves network performance and efficiency:

• Data processing: MEC processes data on devices and systems at the network's edge, such as in a warehouse or retail store, instead of sending it to a centralized cloud for processing. This reduces latency and improves response times.
• Network capacity: MEC increases network capacity by offloading traffic from the core network to the edge. This is especially beneficial for areas with high traffic demand, like stadiums and concert venues.
• Security: MEC improves security by processing sensitive data closer to its source, reducing the risk of data breaches.
• Application deployment: MEC allows applications and services to be deployed directly at the edge of the network, enabling rapid data processing.
• Connectivity: MEC servers can be accessed by end-users and devices via wired or wireless connections.

Here are some examples of how 5G MEC can be used:

• Remote work support: 5G MEC can be used to deliver instructions to multiple workers on a production line. Workers wear smart glasses that send images to the MEC in real time, where AI processes the images and provides support.
• Mobile edge computing: 5G MEC can be used to develop, deploy, and scale applications with ultra-low latency. This allows developers to build applications with fast response times

Edge-driven transformation is a game-changer in the modern business world, and 5G multi-access edge computing technology is undoubtedly leading the cause. Enterprises that embrace this new technology in their business models benefit from streamlined operations, reduced costs, and enhanced customer experience.

Even then, MEC integration isn't without its challenges. Companies looking to deploy multi-access edge computing technology should have a solid implementation strategy that aligns with their entire digital transformation agenda to avoid silos.

- How Does 5G Work with MEC?

5G introduces new challenges to mobile network operators (MNOs) in managing existing legacy networks and introducing new services and technologies. Like other businesses, MNOs need to modernize their business processes and platforms to become efficient. 

The Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) will be an essential building block for 5G as it can help build power at the mobile network edge. This platform will offer, computing and storage, running applications through APIs, and even help process radio network capabilities, such as solving network congestion. 

With this type of power at the hands of the telecoms and Internet providers, it is likely that the 5G wireless infrastructure at the edge, will be like mini-Data Centers. But that power at the edge can only work with the improved mobile broadband characteristics of 5G. 

MEC can be implemented both indoors and outside depending on the access technology. With respect to the outdoors, macro cells place computing and virtualization capabilities into radio network elements. 

By mixing applications with radio equipment, operators can provide new network features quickly and boost over-the-top (OTT) services. The architecture can improve the efficiency of the infrastructure and be integrated with radio equipment. 

With respect to indoor areas, like Wi-Fi and 3G/4G access points, edge clouds can serve as gateways, which run several services applicable to the specific region in which they are installed. 

Examples include machine-to-machine situations where MEC services can monitor weather conditions; retailers in malls that would like to communicate to shoppers on their mobile devices; and crowded areas like airports, movie theaters and stadiums where MEC applications can guide users to destinations.

[Edge and Mutli-access Edge Computing (MEC) - Verizon]

- MEC Architecture

The Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) is a network architecture that enables IT and cloud-computing capabilities at the edge of the cellular network. The main idea behind the architecture is to reduce network congestion and improve applications by performing related processing tasks closer to the end user. The technology is designed to be implemented at cellular base stations, providing rapid deployment of applications and other customer services.

The architecture is comprised of three essential elements: the hosting infrastructure management system, the application platform management system and the application management system. The hosting infrastructure management system consists of a virtualization manager and virtualization layer. The application platform system provides traffic control, radio access network (RAN) information services, communication services and service registry. The application management system is a virtualized machine for applications.

- MEC and 5G Architecture

MEC is an important element of 5G architecture. MEC is an evolution in cloud computing that brings the applications from centralized data centers to the network edge, and therefore closer to the end users and their devices. This essentially creates a shortcut in content delivery between the user and host, and the long network path that once separated them. 

This technology is not exclusive to 5G but is certainly integral to its efficiency. Characteristics of the MEC include the low latency, high bandwidth and real time access to RAN information that distinguish 5G architecture from its predecessors. This convergence of the RAN and core networks will require operators to leverage new approaches to network testing and validation. 

5G networks based on the 3GPP 5G specifications are an ideal environment for MEC deployment. The 5G specifications define the enablers for edge computing, allowing MEC and 5G to collaboratively route traffic. In addition to the latency and bandwidth benefits of the MEC architecture, the distribution of computing power will better enable the high volume of connected devices inherent to 5G deployment and the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT).  

- The Transformative Power of 5G Edge and MEC on Mobile Network Operators

Multi-access edge computing (MEC) brings technology resources closer to the end user. Data is processed and stored at the network's edge, not at some distant data center, significantly reducing latency. MEC provides both an IT service environment and cloud computing capabilities to help enable the real time enterprise. 

5G Edge and Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC) are technologies that work together to enable cloud computing capabilities at the edge of a network, such as the 5G mobile network:

• 5G Edge: A mobile edge computing platform that allows businesses to integrate storage and compute services at the edge of a 5G or LTE network.
• MEC: A network architecture that decentralizes data centers to the edge of a network, such as the 5G network. This allows data and applications to be distributed across multiple sources, which can be accessed more quickly by end users.

MEC has four functional layers: end devices, access network, edge network, and core infrastructure. Some features of MEC include: automatic scaling up and down based on application usage, identifying the right edge node for a user, application monitoring, and platform monitoring.

Through 5G, mobile network operators (MNOs) will be able to deliver unmatched speed and bandwidth to businesses. Unlike 4G/LTE which targeted mobile consumers, 5G is built for businesses and enterprises. It can replace fiber and wired networks with a high-speed, secure Radio Access Network (RAN). Since the MNO’s network acts as the conduit to the cloud, they can introduce an edge computing layer that offers unique advantages to businesses. 

When 5G becomes available, it will fundamentally change the consumer experience. The low-latency and high-speed network will deliver immersive experiences based on augmented reality and virtual reality. Computer vision services that can perform object detection, image classification and image segmentation will change the retail landscape through Amazon Go-like shopping experience. 

Smart cities, smart buildings, smart healthcare become a reality. All of the above scenarios heavily depend on data and AI. The edge computing layer powering these applications should have the best of the breed hardware and software platforms.