Over the last several decades, computing paradigms have changed dramatically, going from massive room-sized resources (processors and memory) to minuscule computer nodes. Most modern application sectors have been lured to computers' potential. Cloud, fog/edge, IoT, and mobile device computing are currently being combined into a seamless continuum via distributed computing continuum systems (DCCSs). Its seamless design efficiently manages a range of processing needs while ensuring a consistent user experience. Additionally, it offers a comprehensive answer to the demands of contemporary computing. In light of this, this study offers a more thorough comprehension of DCCSs' possibilities in the current computing environment. We start by going over how computing paradigms have changed up to DCCS. The advantages and disadvantages of every computer paradigm are examined, along with generic designs, components, and different computing devices. Following that, we continue our conversation on the different computing devices that make up DCCS in order to accomplish computational objectives in both present-day and future applications. Finally, we discuss the unresolved challenges and potential future advancements required for DCCS to achieve its full potential across a wide range of applications.
Keywords: Internet of Things, edge computing, edge intelligence, artificial intelligence, machine learning, distributed computing continuum systems