Introduction

The rapid decentralization of data processing, driven by the proliferation of IoT devices, AI at the edge, and real-time demands, has propelled Edge Computing to the forefront of modern IT infrastructure. Moving computation and data storage closer to the source of data generation reduces latency, conserves bandwidth, and enhances responsiveness, creating immense opportunities across industries from manufacturing and healthcare to retail and smart cities. However, this distributed paradigm introduces unique and complex governance and audit challenges, spanning security, data privacy, regulatory compliance, and operational management, demanding a specialized skill set to ensure robust, resilient, and compliant edge deployments. This essential training course focuses on Edge Computing Governance and Audit, equipping professionals with the critical knowledge and practical methodologies to establish effective governance frameworks and conduct comprehensive audits across the distributed edge landscape. You will learn to navigate the intricate balance between innovation, performance, and the imperative for secure and compliant operations.

This intensive training course delves into the core architectural components of Edge Computing, including edge devices, gateways, local networks, and their integration with cloud environments. We will explore various governance frameworks tailored for the edge, examining areas such as data lifecycle management at the edge, access control, software and firmware updates, incident response, and continuous monitoring of distributed assets. Participants will gain hands-on experience in identifying common edge security vulnerabilities, assessing compliance with relevant data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA) and industry standards, and preparing comprehensive governance and audit reports that provide actionable insights to enhance the resilience, efficiency, and trustworthiness of edge deployments. By the end of this training course, you will possess the expertise to confidently lead Edge Computing governance and audit initiatives, safeguarding your organization's assets and strategic advantage in the decentralized computing era.

Target Audience

• IT Governance Professionals
• IT Auditors & Cybersecurity Professionals
• Edge Computing Architects & Engineers
• Data Protection Officers (DPOs)
• Compliance Officers
• Risk Management Professionals
• Cloud Security Specialists
• Network Administrators

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamental concepts of Edge Computing and its unique characteristics.
• Learn about the key governance challenges inherent in distributed edge environments.
• Master methodologies for establishing a comprehensive Edge Computing governance framework.
• Develop skills in identifying and mitigating security risks specific to the edge.
• Understand the implications of data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA) on edge data processing.
• Learn about techniques for auditing edge device security and management.
• Explore best practices for secure data lifecycle management at the edge.
• Master techniques for ensuring regulatory compliance in distributed edge deployments.
• Understand the importance of secure remote access and patch management for edge devices.
• Learn about strategies for integrating Edge Computing governance with existing IT governance.
• Apply practical Edge Computing Governance and Audit strategies to real-world scenarios.

Duration

5 Days

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Edge Computing and Governance

• Defining Edge Computing and its architectural components.
• Exploring the benefits and challenges of decentralizing computation.
• Understanding the unique governance considerations for Edge Computing.
• Overview of the regulatory landscape impacting edge deployments.
• The strategic imperative for effective Edge Computing governance.

Module 2: Edge Security Architecture and Controls Audit

• Learning the fundamental security principles for Edge Computing.
• Mastering methodologies for auditing edge device hardening and secure boot.
• Techniques for assessing network segmentation and secure communication protocols at the edge.
• Understanding identity and access management (IAM) for distributed edge assets.
• Protecting against physical tampering and unauthorized access to edge devices.

Module 3: Data Governance at the Edge Module

• Understanding data lifecycle management in Edge Computing environments.
• Learning about data collection, processing, storage, and retention policies at the edge.
• Mastering techniques for ensuring data integrity and availability in distributed settings.
• Exploring data minimization and anonymization techniques for edge data.
• Compliance with data sovereignty and localization requirements.

Module 4: Edge Compliance and Regulatory Landscape Module

• Exploring the impact of data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA) on Edge Computing.
• Understanding industry-specific compliance requirements for edge deployments.
• Mastering techniques for auditing regulatory adherence at the edge.
• Assessing consent management and data subject rights in edge scenarios.
• The legal implications of automated decision-making at the edge.

Module 5: Edge Software, Firmware and Updates Governance Module

• Learning about the governance of software and firmware on edge devices.
• Understanding secure over-the-air (OTA) update mechanisms.
• Mastering techniques for auditing patch management processes for edge fleets.
• Exploring vulnerability management for embedded systems and edge applications.
• Ensuring the integrity and authenticity of software running at the edge.

Module 6: Edge Risk Management and Incident Response Audit Module

• Strategies for identifying and assessing risks specific to Edge Computing.
• Mastering techniques for conducting risk assessments for edge deployments.
• Understanding the unique challenges of incident response in distributed edge environments.
• Developing and testing incident response plans for edge-related incidents.
• Ensuring business continuity and disaster recovery for edge operations.

Module 7: Audit Planning, Reporting and Future of Edge Governance Module

• Strategies for planning and scoping an Edge Computing governance and security audit.
• Mastering techniques for gathering and analyzing audit evidence from edge environments.
• Preparing clear, concise, and actionable edge audit reports.
• Communicating edge governance risks and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Exploring emerging trends and future challenges in Edge Computing governance and audit.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.