# edge computing

> paradigm of distributed computing

**Wikidata**: [Q5337692](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5337692)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edge_computing)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/edge-computing

## Summary
Edge computing is a paradigm of distributed computing where system components are located on different networked computers. It functions as a subclass of distributed computing, designed to move processing and applications closer to the network edge.

## Key Facts
- Classified as a subclass and paradigm of distributed computing.
- The term Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) was first introduced in 2013.
- MEC was developed through a collaboration between Nokia Siemens Networks and IBM.
- The Application Service Platform for Networks was the first platform created to allow mobile operators to deploy applications at the network edge.
- Computer scientist and engineer Mahadev Satyanarayanan (born 1953) is a notable figure associated with the field.
- Industry providers include appfleet, an edge container hosting cloud provider with 7 employees as of late 2021.
- The concept is recognized globally with 22 Wikipedia sitelinks and entries in the Encyclopedia of China.
- It is identified by the Library of Congress Authority ID sh2020005575 and FAST ID 2020291.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the origin of Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC)?
A: The term MEC was introduced in 2013. It originated from a platform developed by Nokia Siemens Networks and IBM called the Application Service Platform for Networks, which allowed mobile operators to run applications at the edge of the network.

### Q: How is edge computing classified in computer science?
A: Edge computing is classified as a paradigm of distributed computing. It is specifically defined as a system whose components are located on different networked computers rather than a single centralized location.

### Q: Who are the key contributors to the development of edge computing?
A: Key contributors include corporations like Nokia Siemens Networks and IBM, who developed early edge platforms. In academia, computer scientist Mahadev Satyanarayanan is a notable figure in the field.

## Why It Matters
Edge computing represents a fundamental shift in network architecture by moving components away from centralized systems to different networked computers. This paradigm is significant because it allows mobile operators to deploy, run, and integrate applications directly at the edge of the network rather than in a distant data center. 

The development of Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) in 2013 provided the framework for mobile operators to utilize platforms like the Application Service Platform for Networks. This shift is supported by specialized industry players such as appfleet, which provides edge container hosting. By distributing computing tasks, the technology addresses the structural needs of modern networked systems, as evidenced by its inclusion in major global academic and library databases like the Library of Congress and the Encyclopedia of China.

## Notable For
- **Architectural Shift:** Moves computing components to different networked computers as a subclass of distributed computing.
- **MEC Inception:** The formal introduction of Multi-access Edge Computing in 2013 by Nokia Siemens Networks and IBM.
- **Operator Integration:** First enabled mobile operators to run and integrate applications at the network edge via the Application Service Platform for Networks.
- **Global Standardization:** Recognized across multiple international identification systems including YSO, FAST, and the National Library of Latvia.

## Body

### Definition and Classification
Edge computing is a paradigm of distributed computing. It is defined as a system where components are located on different networked computers. Within technical taxonomies, it is considered a subclass of distributed computing.

### Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC)
Multi-access edge computing is a specific network architecture concept within the broader edge computing field. The term was first introduced in 2013. This development was driven by Nokia Siemens Networks and IBM, who collaborated to create the Application Service Platform for Networks. This platform was designed to allow mobile operators to deploy, run, and integrate applications directly at the edge of the network.

### Industry and Academic Figures
The field involves both academic research and commercial application:
*   **Mahadev Satyanarayanan:** A computer scientist and engineer born in 1953 who is a recognized figure in the discipline.
*   **appfleet:** A cloud provider specializing in edge container hosting. As of November 11, 2021, the company employed seven people and operated within the edge and cloud computing industries.

### Global Recognition and Identifiers
Edge computing is documented extensively across international knowledge bases:
*   **Library Identifiers:** It is indexed under Library of Congress Authority ID sh2020005575 and National Library of Latvia ID 000363565.
*   **Digital IDs:** It carries the Freebase ID /m/0dc2zs and Golden ID Edge_computing-5JNBN3.
*   **Language Support:** Information on edge computing is available in at least 10 languages on Wikipedia, including Arabic (حوسبة حافية), Korean (에지 컴퓨팅), and Chinese (边缘计算).

## References

1. [Source](https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/servers-storage/solutions/edge-computing/)
2. YSO-Wikidata mapping project
3. [Source](https://golden.com/wiki/Edge_computing-5JNBN3)
4. [OpenAlex](https://docs.openalex.org/download-snapshot/snapshot-data-format)