Edge computing is a distributed computing paradigm that brings computation and data storage closer to the location where it is needed, typically at the "edge" of the network. This approach reduces latency, bandwidth usage, and the amount of data that needs to be transmitted to centralized data centers or cloud environments. Edge computing is especially beneficial for applications that require real-time processing and low-latency responses, such as IoT devices, autonomous vehicles, industrial automation, and smart cities.

By processing data locally, edge computing enables faster decision-making and reduces the dependency on cloud or centralized servers, which is crucial in scenarios where immediate actions are necessary. Additionally, edge computing enhances security and privacy by keeping sensitive data closer to the source and minimizing exposure to external networks. As the number of connected devices continues to grow, edge computing is becoming increasingly important in managing the massive amounts of data generated by these devices and ensuring efficient and effective data processing at scale.