Taking networks to the next level is IoT’s trump card, and having an edge computing game plan will ensure you always hold a winning hand according to Antony Byford, Vice President of IoT & Collaboration, Westcon-Comstor.
Realising the potential of IoT entails a full consideration of its impact in the edge computing space, believes Byford. He explained that edge computing provides the ability to bring services closer to users, improving the performance of IoT applications – which often have major requirements around data transmission and privacy – while enhancing scalability and service response speeds. It also offers shorter network latency compared to cloud computing as edge servers are located geographically closer to IoT devices, ensuring optimised QoS and a real-time response.
“Future growth in the IoT space will come from edge computing,” he stated. “Its ability to offer real-time access to network information combined with ultra-low latency and high bandwidth is playing an increasingly important role in the IoT space. With the rise of edge-driven IoT we are seeing edge computing and IoT complement each other, creating exciting opportunities for use cases such as smart cities, VR, AR and 5G-powered private networks in industrial IoT and Industry 4.0 environments. It has the potential to drive significant growth over the coming years.”
Byford also observed that forward thinking partners are realising that with the convergence of IT and Operational Technology (OT) fast becoming a cornerstone of digital transformation, leveraging IoT can enhance efficiency and decision making processes. “We’re witnessing firsthand how the boundaries between IT and OT are blurring, with vendors from each domain stepping into new territory to leverage opportunities,” he added.
“IT vendors are keen to tap into the OT market to expand their offerings, while OT vendors are embracing IT solutions to enhance connectivity and data analytics. The resulting IT-OT convergence can lead to valuable organisational gains such as automation for productivity outcomes, strengthened cybersecurity, reduced downtime, resource optimisation and improved quality and compliance.
Edge-driven IoT is creating opportunities for use cases such as smart cities, VR, AR and 5G powered private networks in industrial IoT and Industry 4.0 environments
“In essence, IoT is the backbone that supports the convergence of IT and OT, effectively bridging the gap between the digital world of IT and the physical realm of OT. By facilitating real-time data exchange, IoT enables the seamless integration of these traditionally separate systems. This connectivity allows for a dynamic interaction between IT systems that process and analyse data and OT systems that manage and control physical processes.”
Game-changer
Furthermore, noted Byford, in an era where staying ahead means embracing the latest technological advances, the convergence of IT and OT through IoT becomes a game-changer for partners and enterprises. “Embracing IT-OT convergence through IoT offers businesses practical opportunities to enhance their operations and stay competitive,” he added. “At the same time there is a huge need for best-of-breed cybersecurity within an IoT environment, creating an opportunity for network security vendors. Many are rising to this by offering DDoS detection solutions that work to prevent attacks at the network edge, for example.”
Meanwhile, the rise of Industrial IoT (IIoT) – which refers to IoT applications in the industrial and manufacturing space – is driving IT-OT convergence in large part due to the need for real-time data, analytics, end user digital applications, data management and storage. “Therefore a common thread uniting partners who are on the front foot regarding IoT is that they perceive it as an ecosystem that can accelerate their transition to recurring revenue models,” stated Byford. “They are adding value by helping customers navigate what is a dynamic and, in many ways, a nascent technology domain.”
This is all a long way from the ‘noise’ that came to define IoT a few years ago through too much talk of smart fridges and connected kettles. “This perception has stuck,” stated Byford. “IoT is so much more than that. There are definitely misconceptions around IoT, both within and beyond the channel. In reality, IoT underpins many of the technologies and innovations of the future and is driving transformation on a large scale.
“Perceptions of IoT haven’t kept up with the pace at which the technology itself is evolving. There is clearly a significant untapped, mutually beneficial opportunity for both providers and partners when looking at the IoT space. Closer collaboration is absolutely central to seizing this opportunity.”
The size of the opportunity is extraordinary, with IDC expecting IoT ecosystem investments to surpass $1 trillion in 2026, with CAGR of 10.4 per cent from 2023-2027. “Some partners are not yet fully alive to the scale of the IoT market,” commented Byford. “We are working to change this through the launch of a dedicated IoT division focused on unlocking the potential of IoT and the intelligent edge for partners. The division brings together Westcon-Comstor’s existing IoT capabilities and vendor relationships in the IoT space under one roof in a formal go-to-market offering, ranging from security and analytics to edge computing and connectivity.”
Untapped market
Any reseller or MSP keen to grow recurring revenues and potentially steal a march on rivals in what is (from a channel perspective) a relatively untapped market should consider building their IoT capabilities, urged Byford. “Ultimately, it’s about actively addressing the critical need for reliable and manageable IoT solutions as end users focus on becoming digital first and digital native businesses,” he added.
“It’s vital that partners take the time to understand the market and identify a niche where they can build a unique proposition. Vendor relationships are of course vital, but the ability to demonstrate expertise and provide value added services from a position of authority and credibility is what sets a partner apart from the pack.”