Abstract

The proliferation of IoT devices and the emergence of latency-sensitive applications in 2019 accelerated the demand for edge computing architectures. To meet these demands, network infrastructure began shifting away from centralized data centers toward distributed, programmable edge nodes. This research explores how the integration of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) can optimize edge network performance. The paper analyzes architectural models that enable dynamic routing, load balancing, and traffic prioritization at the edge. It also evaluates security and orchestration challenges, particularly in multi-tenant environments. By comparing SDN- and NFV-driven approaches to traditional static configurations, the study demonstrates measurable improvements in latency reduction, resource utilization, and service availability in edge networks.