As technologies like automation, linked sensors, self-driving cars, and the Internet of Things (IoT) become more mainstream, new chip designs are needed. Intel is looking to answer those demands with the Xeon D-2100 processor. This new System-on-Chip (SoC) processor is designed specifically for edge computing, allowing devices to process data instead of sending it to the cloud.

The Silicon Valley giant described its newest processor as building on the innovation and performance of the Xeon Scalable program. The Xeon D-2100 processor is expected to meet the distinct power and space requirements that edge computing demands. The chip can handle analytics, computing, data security, networking, and storage.

Sandra Rivera, Intel’s Network Platforms Group’s Senior Vice President and General Manager, explained that in order to take advantage of the opportunities opened up by 5G and cloud networks, service providers have to enhance their data center and edge structure. Otherwise, they won’t be able to meet the demands of end users and their smart devices.

Rivera added that the D-2100 processor makes it possible for “service providers and enterprises to deliver the maximum amount of compute intelligence at the edge of the web tier while expending the least power.”

Small & powerful! #5G #Edgecomputing Intel Xeon D-2100 Processor Extends Intelligence to Edge, Enabling New Capabilities for Cloud, Network and Service Providers https://t.co/I9OVb1IjJp

— Sandra Rivera (@SandraLRivera) February 8, 2018

Intel’s new processors will also allow for CoSPs to provide high-performing, improved networking services with optimized performance using less power when using virtual customer premise equipment (vCPE) like encryption services and VPNs.

The Xeon D-2100 processor is comprised of as much as 18 “Skylake-server” generation Xeon cores and QuickAssist Technology. It comes with around 100Gps of integrated cryptography, encryption, and decryption acceleration. Intel also gave assurances that the new processors will carry enhanced system software that safeguards against “Meltdown” and “Spectre” security exploits.

Intel believes the new chip will be especially valuable in conjunction with 5G technologies, like virtual reality apps that are currently being developed for mobile devices. The company is also confident it will be helpful for use in communications networks like VPNs and wide area networks.