What is edge computing?

Edge computing focuses on bringing computation and data storage closer to where it is needed. In traditional cloud computing, data is sent to big data centres for processing. But with edge computing, the processing happens on or near the device or ‘edge’ of the network where the data is created.

What does edge computing do?

Edge computing reduces delays, enhances performance, and makes things more efficient by processing data closer to the source. This is especially important for tasks that need real-time or near-real-time processing, like Internet of Things (IoT) devices, self-driving cars, augmented reality, and other applications that are very sensitive to delays.

Edge computing vs cloud computing: what are the differences?

Edge computing involves processing data near its source, minimising latency and reducing the need for centralised cloud servers. In contrast, cloud computing relies on centralised data centres for processing, introducing potential latency due to data transmission. Cloud computing is better for applications with less stringent latency requirements and extensive storage needs, while edge computing excels in scenarios where bandwidth usage needs to be optimised, as it processes data locally and transmits only essential information to the cloud.

Cloud Edge

Better connect your private network to your cloud ecosystems with an integrated digital infrastructure that supports your transformation goals.

Connectivity without complexity

Streamline multi-cloud connectivity from vendor/location selection, connectivity profiling, and port configuration to swiftly deploying new virtual connections.

Secure cloud connectivity
Providing secure, integrated connectivity at the crossroads of cloud edge and your private network, with the option to overlay a range of security, networking and cloud capabilities.
Connect to your cloud, your way
Build a virtual, physical or hybrid network infrastructure at the cloud edge with flexible vendor-agnostic options.
Improve user experiences and control costs
Access expert-managed services to streamline design, implementation and daily operations freeing up resource to focus on growth projects.

Secure cloud connectivity
Providing secure, integrated connectivity at the crossroads of cloud edge and your private network, with the option to overlay a range of security, networking and cloud capabilities.
Connect to your cloud, your way
Build a virtual, physical or hybrid network infrastructure at the cloud edge with flexible vendor-agnostic options.
Improve user experiences and control costs
Access expert-managed services to streamline design, implementation and daily operations freeing up resource to focus on growth projects.

Connected Cloud Edge

Bring together your cloud services and ecosystems to meet a growing demand for cloud connectivity.

Connected Cloud Direct

Connect direct from your private network to leading cloud service providers with WAN connectivity.

Connected Cloud Colocation

Efficient hosting for your IT infrastructure in a secure data centre environment.

Edge compute

Innovate with a BT managed ‘edge cloud’ platform that moves computing power to wherever it’s needed.

Why choose BT for Cloud Edge

Leverage our partner ecosystem and proven network experience at the cloud edge and beyond to optimise and future proof your cloud connectivity.

Global reach

We serve 4000+ customers in 180+ countries, addressing global data, application, performance, security, and regulatory needs.

Industry leader

We’re a recognised leader in the 2023 Gartner® Magic Quadrant for Network Services.

Forward thinking

We’re always innovating – whether that is in security, SD-WAN or multi-cloud networking. We’re a partner for the future.

Global reach

We serve 4000+ customers in 180+ countries, addressing global data, application, performance, security, and regulatory needs.

Industry leader

We’re a recognised leader in the 2023 Gartner® Magic Quadrant for Network Services.

Forward thinking

We’re always innovating – whether that is in security, SD-WAN or multi-cloud networking. We’re a partner for the future.

We do more for your business

Sustainability in business

Accelerate your journey towards net zero with digital sustainability solutions to help you track, measure and reduce carbon emissions.

Explore sustainability

Accelerate your journey towards net zero with digital sustainability solutions to help you track, measure and reduce carbon emissions.

Explore sustainability

Accelerate your journey towards net zero with digital sustainability solutions to help you track, measure and reduce carbon emissions.

Explore sustainability

Accelerate your journey towards net zero with digital sustainability solutions to help you track, measure and reduce carbon emissions.

Explore sustainability

Global Fabric

Global Fabric simplifies cloud connectivity, security, and infrastructure for organisations, enabling you to build a programmable cloud-centric network.

Explore Global Fabric

Global Fabric simplifies cloud connectivity, security, and infrastructure for organisations, enabling you to build a programmable cloud-centric network.

Explore Global Fabric

Global Fabric simplifies cloud connectivity, security, and infrastructure for organisations, enabling you to build a programmable cloud-centric network.

Explore Global Fabric

Global Fabric simplifies cloud connectivity, security, and infrastructure for organisations, enabling you to build a programmable cloud-centric network.

Explore Global Fabric