International Journal of Science, Engineering and TechnologyAuthors: Okpala Charles Chikwendu
Abstract: Edge computing has emerged as a transformative paradigm that brings computation and data storage closer to the source of data generation, thereby enhancing responsiveness, reducing latency, and enabling real-time processing. However, this distributed architecture introduces a unique set of cybersecurity challenges that differ significantly from those faced in traditional cloud-centric models. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the key security challenges in edge environments, including expanded attack surfaces, limited device resources, physical vulnerabilities, decentralized trust, and complex regulatory compliance related to data privacy. It then explores emerging and effective solutions such as lightweight encryption, zero trust security models, AI-driven intrusion detection systems, secure hardware foundations, blockchain-based trust mechanisms, and edge gateway protection. Through sector-specific case studies in manufacturing, healthcare, smart cities, and industrial IoT, the article illustrates the practical implications of edge security. Finally, it highlights future research directions, such as the need for interoperable security standards, quantum-resilient cryptography, context-aware security models, and the secure integration of edge computing with 5G and beyond. The findings underscore the critical importance of designing adaptive, scalable, and forward-looking cybersecurity frameworks to ensure the safe evolution of edge computing ecosystems.
