Edge and serverless computing for the next generation of ad hoc networks

Abstract

This special issue presents a forward-looking exploration of the integration of edge computing and serverless architectures to enable the next generation of ad hoc networks. Fundamentally, ad hoc networks, characterized by their decentralized and dynamic nature, play a critical role in environments where traditional infrastructure is unavailable or unreliable. However, they face significant challenges in terms of latency, scalability, resource efficiency, and real-time responsiveness. Our vision is to show how to bridge these gaps by combining the localized processing power of edge computing with the flexibility and scalability of serverless (function-as-a-service) models. This integration allows for real-time, event-driven decision-making directly at the network edge, reducing reliance on centralized infrastructure and enabling more autonomous and intelligent network behavior. We argue that this paradigm will be essential in the future as the number of connected devices and data-intensive applications continues to grow. From disaster response and smart transportation to remote healthcare and industrial Internet of Things (IoT), such systems demand scalable, resilient, and low-latency solutions. This special issue outlines the potential of edge-serverless synergy, highlights the key technical challenges, such as orchestration, security, and resource constraints, and proposes research directions to address them. We envision this integration as a cornerstone of future intelligent, distributed systems capable of operating in highly dynamic, real-world conditions. © 2025