The Role of Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC) in 5G Networks

5G networks are the cutting edge of cellular communication, allowing download speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second and enabling a wide multitude of possibilities with multi-access edge computing (MEC). 5G networks use MEC for network slicing and implementing cloud computing as close as possible to the end user, reducing latency and network congestion at the same time.

Understanding Multi-Access Edge Computing

Cloud computing is a popular trend in modern software, and with good reason. Users store data and use apps on remote server systems, which then serve data and information back to the end user. By offloading processor load and storage space to a remote cloud, users of all kinds of devices can enjoy top-of-the-line efficiency. But the cloud isn’t magic — light can only go so fast, and every network node that reroutes user data introduces some inevitable lag. The goal of MEC is simply to keep all remote processing as close as possible to the end user. Minimum distance and minimal reroutes mean reduced lag. The “edge” in MEC is just where the service provider ends and the client begins. 

Early edge computing began with distributed servers to get download sources closer to downloaders. MEC takes this even further, running cloud applications and processing tasks as close to users as possible. 

But MEC isn’t just for keeping ping times low for internet gamers. More and more popular mobile apps rely heavily on cloud computing, creating network congestion. You can’t just build one more lane in the electromagnetic spectrum. Instead, MEC moves the processor load closer to users.

So Much Data, So Little Time: The Intersection of MEC and 5G 

5G technology means both higher bandwidths and bigger networks. However, increased data flow and device numbers conspire to create network congestion and lag. MEC addresses both of these problems. 

Consider a global enterprise that relies on real-time analytics to inform business decisions. If all data were forwarded to a central server, like in traditional cloud computing, server costs and network slowdown would grow exponentially as the company expands. MEC means deploying data analysis computation, as well as inventory management and internal communications to the network’s edge, at local offices, retail locations or even cell towers. For example, read about how Orange, one of the world’s leading telecommunications operators, used SUSE ATIP to enable ultra-low-latency services including SD-WAN and 5G roaming.

Likewise, cutting edge AI-powered editors for video, audio and images can’t afford to send gigabytes of data around the planet for processing. Instead, use MEC to deploy AI models close to clients, to keep applications responsive and user devices agile. 5G connectivity promises to enable an Internet-of-Things (IoT), allowing more and more consumer and enterprise devices to connect and communicate. 

This exciting future doesn’t have to grind the airwaves to a halt. MEC lets smart devices coordinate locally. Autonomous vehicles need split second computations to keep drivers and pedestrians safe; automated industry can rely on MEC to coordinate valuable machinery with maximum efficiency and no room for latency or error. MEC-powered 5G matters to consumers as well; immersive AR and VR entertainment demands high-bandwidth broadcasts to wearable technology, only possible when MEC keeps computation local. Even remote surgery and 5G connected smart cities will be possible with MEC to minimize latency and network congestion.

MEC Architecture in 5G Networks

Consider the cellular network as a web of nodes, with a few central nodes for huge databases and servers at corporate headquarters, and billions of end nodes on user, employee, and automated devices. Between them sit countless intermediary nodes, such as servers at retail branches, remote server mirrors and even cell phone towers. MEC puts your software applications into a virtual appliance, deployed to the nodes closest to your intended user. In an enterprise, this may include regional offices or individual business locations, serving local devices and distributing computational load. 

However, MEC implementation comes with challenges. MEC requires cutting-edge software container management, since all distributed services must be kept in flawless sync. In a crowded network or in case of interrupted connection, MEC systems need to handle errors and send data packets selectively as the network allows. SUSE’s Edge solutions are perfect for implementing MEC in 5G networks; SUSE Linux Micro is a lightweight OS made for the edge, and SUSE Rancher delivers cloud native services at the edge.

How MEC Can Support Your Organization’s Future Growth

While 5G networks bring mass communication and maximum data speeds, Multi-Access Edge Computing keeps cloud computing as close as possible to end users, saving 5G networks from crowding and latency. To discover more 5G trends and the future of telecom, check out this white paper about edge computing infrastructure.