Edge Computing: Empowering Real-Time Decision-Making

This chapter explores the transformative role of edge computing in enabling real-time decision-
making across diverse domains, such as autonomous systems, healthcare, industrial
automation, and smart cities. By decentralizing data processing and bringing computation
closer to the source, edge computing significantly reduces latency, optimizes bandwidth, and
enhances data privacy. The chapter details architectural models – including device-to-cloud, fog
computing, and hierarchical edge frameworks – and highlights the integration of AI for edge
intelligence. It also examines challenges like resource constraints, security vulnerabilities, and
interoperability, offering insights into emerging solutions, such as federated learning,
lightweight cryptography, and blockchain-based authentication. Through real-world use cases
and future trends, the chapter underscores edge computing’s potential to revolutionize mobile
ecosystems, energy efficiency, and secure data handling in distributed environments.