Edge computing can increase computing power and lower latency, but it poses the risk of expanding the attack surface, experts say.
For example, some enterprises are deploying compute clusters or small edge data centers closer to endusers or production facilities to minimize network latency and reduce the volume of network traffic, said Bob Peterson, CTO architect at Sungard Availability Services.
“However, many times they are putting systems in areas that may not have the same logical and physical controls as their larger data centers,” he said.
In addition, restoring physical control or services can be more difficult with remote centers, and the risk of systems being breached or tampered with increases when devices are placed in locations with little or no staff.