Managing edge devices in a remote working environment
November 22, 2022
Businesses across the world are rapidly shifting to cloud computing and remote working. This brings about the need to orchestrate and manage edge devices with greater effectiveness. Edge computing takes computing and storage closer to data sources, so enterprises need to find a seamless way to combine their infrastructure, services and applications into a cohesive IT ecosystem.
Remote working can make IT networks more complicated and harder to track without the right tools or digital services partners. Edge devices need to be managed properly in the age of the distributed workforce. Enterprises must ensure that devices are securely connected to the business network and that all software and systems are operating as expected.
Failure to do so will lead to disruptions, costly downtime and poor productivity. Managing edge devices in the modern era requires an intelligent system that can be controlled and overseen from a single point. This is where network architecture like software-defined wide area networks (SD-WAN) become highly effective.
Seacom Business is a leading connectivity and ICT services provider in South Africa. We work with many large enterprises across the region to set up reliable connectivity systems, cloud computing environments and robust cyber security solutions. We understand the importance of managing edge devices in a remote working environment.
How to manage edge devices effectively
Enterprises should look into software and networking 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.
Not only does this save IT teams from having to travel to various branches, or reduce the need for employee training and micromanagement, but it also ensures that all edge devices are working properly and remain securely connected to the business network. In an age where cyber threats are prevalent, endpoint protection is critical for preventing data leaks and hacks.
Consider the hardware needed for edge orchestration - a reliable server with high bandwidth connections will be needed. In addition, robust connectivity is a necessity for edge devices to be managed from a central location. If the network fails or connections drop, then the whole process can fall apart. Fibre connections with redundancy built in are a good solution.
Lastly, find applications that are compatible with widespread deployment and edge computing. Business applications need to be accessible and functional on edge devices; they no longer sit on a central server but now reside in different locations on the devices themselves. Combining all of these processes will ensure that IT teams can orchestrate and manage edge devices effectively.
Benefits of successful edge orchestration
Companies that successfully implement processes to manage their edge devices will unlock the following benefits:
- 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
The biggest barrier to successful edge orchestration is connectivity. Without reliable, secure and strong connectivity, edge computing will fail. For data-intensive applications or enterprises with thousands of connected devices, bandwidth and latency become important factors of the network.
Fibre remains one of the most reliable and effective connections for businesses as it allows for high bandwidth transmissions with very low latency. It’s also a secure way to transmit data across the network; from edge devices to the central servers. Businesses that use SASE or SD-WAN networks will also benefit from improved connectivity and optimised routing through fibre connections.
Another area of concern is the complexity of edge computing. Some businesses lack understanding or the time required to set it up properly. However, without effective management, complexity is actually further increased and completely detracts from the purpose and benefits of edge computing.
One way to reduce complexity is to work with a single vendor or service provider that has the right tools and skills. Customer support will be critical in this endeavour, so choose a partner with a reliable track record and round-the-clock support. Seacom Business has experts on hand to assist your company with its computing, cloud and management needs. We have a 24/7 support desk and an online portal for customers to use.
Managing edge devices is critical for effective remote working. Moving to the edge makes sense for certain companies, but control and orchestration must be prioritised by IT teams. 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 most extensive network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including subsea cables and secure internet connections. We offer a diverse range of flexible, scalable and high-quality solutions for businesses that meet world-class standards for connectivity.
Seacom is privately owned and operated, making it agile and adaptable to the needs of the customer. This makes us the preferred ICT and internet connectivity partner for African businesses and peripheral service providers. We can guarantee high-speed, low-latency and secure internet connections to corporates and small enterprises.
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