Strategic Placement of Servers in Mobile Cloud Computing: A Comprehensive Exploration of Edge Computing, Fog Computing, and Cloudlet Technologies

Abstract

Mobile Cloud Computing (MCC) has become integral to the advancement of mobile applications, necessitating strategic server placement for optimized performance. This review article explores three pivotal technologies—Edge Computing, Fog Computing, and Cloudlet Technologies—aimed at addressing the challenges posed by traditional cloud-centric models in MCC environments. The paper provides a thorough analysis of each approach, elucidating their architectural principles, benefits, and applications. Edge Computing’s proximity to end-users, Fog Computing’s intermediary role, and the localized Cloudlet Technologies are scrutinized. A comparative analysis offers insights into their strengths and limitations, aiding in determining their suitability based on diverse use cases. Real-world applications showcase the transformative impact of these technologies in enhancing mobile experiences across sectors such as healthcare, gaming, and more. The review concludes with a discussion on the challenges inherent in each strategy and proposes future research directions. This comprehensive exploration serves as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and decision-makers navigating the dynamic landscape of strategic server placement in MCC, contributing to the optimization of performance and user experience in mobile applications and services.