Newer edge computing uses cases like the Internet of Things (IoT), virtualized radio access network (vRAN), multi-access edge compute (MEC) and secure access service edge (SASE) require low latency. This requires service operators and data center operators to deploy compute resources at the network edge at an increasing rate. But power consumption and hardware footprint remain hindering factors, regardless of their location: purpose-built micro data centers, traditional telco points of presence (PoPs) or converged cable access platforms (CCAPs). Meanwhile, because so many edge data centers are being deployed, operators are working under a mandate to ensure cost-effectiveness.