The key to industrial cloud adoption: Industrial edge computing hardware

Industrial edge computing hardware is the backbone of cloud adoption, facilitating durability, security, and efficiency for manufacturing environments.

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Edge computing devices are generally devices that provide entry points into enterprise networks. This means the average router or switch used in white-collar offices is actually an edge computing device. While popular hardware works well in controlled environments, it struggles to function as industrial edge computing hardware in factories or facilities where heavy-duty equipment is used or where physical contact is constant. The challenge in finding applicable, long-lasting hardware represents one of the reasons why 41% of stakeholders struggle with adopting industrial cloud within their facilities.

Understanding the challenges industries face with edge computing hardware

Software and communication service providers primarily drive the adoption of cloud computing in manufacturing and industrial processes. This is why all the news coming out of the industrial cloud niche is focused on 5G connectivity, OPC UA over TSN protocols, and IIoT interconnectivity. The flashy aspects of the industrial cloud have a market share of $9 billion, but it has relegated the hardware that will drive a more complete adoption to the background. But McKinsey's statistics show that this should not be the case. This is because edge computing can potentially increase the hardware market to a value of $215 billion by 2025 if hardware design is achieved correctly.