Overview
Fog computing (a term coined by Cisco) is often seen as an extension of cloud computing to the edge of the network. While 'Edge' typically refers to the devices themselves, 'Fog' refers to the local network infrastructure (routers, switches, access points) that can also perform compute and storage tasks.
Key Characteristics
- Low Latency: Processing data near the source.
- Geographical Distribution: Resources are spread across a wide area.
- Mobility Support: Handles devices that are moving (e.g., connected cars).
Fog vs. Edge
The terms are often used interchangeably, but Fog is generally considered more hierarchical and includes the local area network, while Edge is more focused on the individual devices and the immediate connection point.