The United States Department of Defense is at the forefront of cloud-computing development efforts, which have been consistently growing. According to Statista, 400 billion U.S. dollars in revenue came from cloud computing in just 2021 alone. Tactical edge servers are a useful tool for the DoD, but what is there to know about these innovative hubs of data center management?

What Are They?

These servers are typically built from a military computer near or on the battlefield and near data-generating clients or devices. Consequently, they are typically rugged or ultra-rugged to fit military standards and made to be suitable for a quick data center installation.

What Are the Key Features?

These tactical edge servers typically have six key components.

  • Rugged chassis and elements
  • SWaP-C optimized configuration
  • High-performance RAM and CPUs</>
  • Large amounts of secondary storage
  • Thorough computer stress testing
  • Maximized Cybersecurity Assurance

What Are the Benefits?

Tactical edge servers provide three key benefits that improve data center management and lighten the burden of data center maintenance.

Latency Reduction

Unlike typical cloud data centers, tactical edge servers are located closer to the battlefield, allowing for less lag in response times for data requests. Less data needs to be sent to the cloud. This also applies to other edge devices and artificial intelligence systems nearby.

Quicker decision-making

With less latency from data centers, personnel in the field are able to act faster. They do not need to wait as long to receive information, which is especially beneficial in high-stakes moments.

Reduced Costs

Since storage and data processing is taken care of by the tactical edge servers, less data is sent to the cloud. This allows for lower costs from cloud computing. The extra funds can then be allotted to other areas in need of improvement or maintenance.

What Are Some Typical Uses?

These servers can be protected by rugged, transit cases and moved easily to wherever the mission may require. This makes them perfect for in-field mobile deployments. Additionally, UAVs must collect a large amount of data with their sensors, then process and store the data somewhere. Since tactical edge servers can be installed in ground control stations for UAVs, they can allow improved performance with less distance for the data to travel.

Tactical edge servers come with many benefits, but there are also other forms of edge computing that may suit you best. Contact us today to get started with your edge data center or receive data center services.