Mobile Edge Computing or Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) can be defined as a technology that helps in implementing cloud computing capabilities at the edge of the network within the Radio Access Network (RAN) to reduce network congestion and improve network performance. By placing MEC at the cell/base station, operators can achieve various benefits, such as reduced cost, ultra-low latency and response trip time, traffic steering, and caching efficiency.

The MicroQuadrant provides information about the major players that offer MEC market applications, and outlines the findings and analysis on how well each vendor performs within the specified criteria. We have placed vendors into 4 categories based on their performance in each criterion: “Visionary Leaders,” “Innovators,” “Emerging Companies,” and “Dynamic Differentiators.”

Vendors who fall into this category generally receive high scores for most evaluation criteria. They have robust and established product portfolio and very strong market presence. Moreover, these vendors also have strong business strategies. Nokia Corporation, Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., and Saguna Networks Ltd. are the visionary leaders of the MEC market.

The dynamic differentiators’ category includes established vendors with very strong business strategies. However, they are low in product portfolio. They generally focus on a specific type of technology related to the product. Juniper Networks, Inc. and Brocade Communications Systems, Inc. are the dynamic differentiators of the MEC market.

Innovators are vendors who have demonstrated substantial product innovations as compared to their competitors. They have a focused product portfolio. However, they do not have very strong growth strategies for their overall business. ADLINK Technology, Inc., Advantech Co., Ltd., Artesyn Embedded Technologies Inc., and Vasona Networks, Inc. are the innovators of the MEC market.

The emerging companies’ category comprises vendors with niche product offerings, who are starting to gain their position in the market. They do not have very strong business strategies as compared to other established vendors. They might be new entrants in the market and require some more time before getting significant traction in the market. Vapor IO, Inc. is the emerging company of the MEC market.