Google’s has announced general availability of its Distributed Cloud (GDC) Edge portfolio, targeting deployment of 5G core and RAN functions at the network edge. There are various deployment options but Google’s launch focused on a rack-based configuration with six servers, two top-of-rack switches, plus cabling, optics and software. Once installed, Google handles the management of the system, including software updates, configuration, security and physical component replacements or upgrades. The first markets in which the rack-based configuration will be available are the USA, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Spain, Finland and the UK. There is also an appliance option for more remote, constrained or hostile environments. This consists of a 1U ruggedized server, local NFS storage, a security trusted platform…