Grant: Alliance Grants

Edge computing is a distributed, open IT architecture that features decentralized processing power, enabling mobile computing and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. In edge computing, data is processed by the device itself or by a local computer or server, rather than being transmitted to a data centre. Edge computing has been proven to have a significant impact on user quality of service, and it is anticipated to be an necessary component of all digital business by as early as 2022. The proposed research will democratize edge computing by exploiting unused heterogeneous computing resources and recycled resources of existing infrastructures to create distributed edge computing clusters. With our industry partner Kings Distributed Systems, we will make edge computing accessible to all rather than restricted to the control of cloud service providers and network operators. This will reduce existing monopoly power in this area and open an entirely new market for Canadian businesses and even local governments, who will be able to act as edge providers themselves. This new market will in turn accommodate many Internet of Things applications, making feasible smart home, building, transportation and city applications and magnifying Canada's impact in the IT and smart services sectors. In addition, HQP training is a key focus of the program, and a diverse group of 21 talented HQP will go on to help further advance Canada's edge computing technologies.