Mobile-Edge Computing Architecture: The role of MEC in the Internet of Things

Mobile-Edge computing (MEC) is an emerging technology currently recognized as a key enabler for 5G networks. Compatible with current 4G networks, MEC will address many key uses of the 5G system, motivated by the massive diffusion of the Internet of Things (IoT). This article aims to provide a tutorial on MEC technology and an overview of the MEC framework and architecture recently defined by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) MEC Industry Specification Group (ISG) standardization organization. We provide some examples of MEC deployment, with special reference to IoT cases, since IoT is recognized as a main driver for 5G. Finally, we discuss the main benefits and challenges for MEC moving toward 5G.