Azure IoT Edge is a cloud-to-edge computing platform that extends Azure services and capabilities to devices located close to where data is generated. Instead of sending every sensor reading to the cloud for processing, IoT Edge can run workloads locally on gateways, industrial PCs, or other edge devices. This enables real-time analysis, local decision-making, and operation with limited or intermittent cloud connectivity.
In industrial environments, Azure IoT Edge can process machine data locally to detect anomalies, monitor equipment conditions, or trigger immediate actions before sending selected information to the cloud. It supports containerized workloads and integrates with Azure IoT services, making it useful for applications involving machine learning, predictive maintenance, computer vision, and industrial automation.