Manish Kumar Jha,
- Ph.D., Department of Mathematics, (Computer Science Research), Patliputra University, Patna, Bihar, India
Abstract
Edge computing and Internet of Things (IoT) deployments require automation solutions that minimize resource use while supporting real-time processing and intermittent connectivity. This study investigates shell-based frameworks for managing distributed edge and IoT systems, with emphasis on sensor integration, live monitoring, and fault recovery. Drawing from 200 real-world deployment cases across smart city, healthcare, and industrial domains, the analysis compares shell scripting directly against containerized approaches (e.g., Docker with lightweight images). Key metrics evaluated include memory and CPU consumption, deployment time, response latency, and resilience under failure conditions. Results indicate shell-based methods consume approximately 73% less memory and 58% less CPU than containers, while delivering comparable functionality. These advantages are most pronounced on severely constrained hardware, such as single-board computers with limited RAM, where containers often incur swapping or performance degradation. Shell frameworks excel in scenarios with tight resource limits, rapid field deployment needs, or minimal dependency requirements. Limitations arise in complex multi-language orchestration or strict isolation demands. A practical decision framework is proposed to guide selection based on hardware constraints, performance targets, application complexity, team expertise, and maintenance considerations. These findings affirm shell scripting as a viable, efficient option for many edge and IoT applications, particularly in resource-scarce environments, while clarifying boundaries for container adoption.
Keywords: Edge computing, fault tolerance, healthcare devices, industrial IoT, IoT automation, real-time systems, resource efficiency, sensor integration, shell programming, smart cities
[This article belongs to Journal of Advances in Shell Programming ]
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Journal of Advances in Shell Programming
| Volume | 13 | |
| Issue | 01 | |
| Received | 03/02/2026 | |
| Accepted | 07/02/2026 | |
| Published | 20/03/2026 | |
| Publication Time | 45 Days |