In basic terms grid computing can be described as a network of
computers and data storage systems, brought together to share
computing power. Where a computer is not being used, or is using
only a fraction of its power, the grid will allow that power to be
used by someone else.
The concept differs from the World Wide Web, which only enables
communication through browsers, because it actually allows access
to computer resources. It is also different from peer-to-peer
computing, which enables file-sharing between two users, because it
allows sharing of resources among many, not just two.
The potential of computer grids is enormous and when the concept
becomes mainstream it holds the promise of transforming the
computer power available to the individual. At present a computer
user is restricted by the power of his computer. When the grid
comes on line there will be no restrictions: the cheapest, oldest
model will have access to the computing resources of millions of
other computers worldwide.
The most famous grid currently in operation is the SETI@home
project. This offers free software which runs when a participating
PC is in screensaver mode, donating the computer's idle processing
power to solving the question of whether there is intelligent life
on other planets. Results are returned periodically from each PC to
a data centre in exchange for new numbers to crunch.
Scientists at CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear
Research near Geneva, are collaborating in the creation of what is
hoped will be the world's largest computer grid, in order to
analyse the massive volume of data that will be produced when
CERN's latest and largest ever particle accelerator (known as the
Large Hadron Collider, or LHC) becomes operational in 2007.
But access to such technologies should not simply be the
preserve of the biggest corporations and laboratories, says the
Commission. It has therefore launched a funding package of €52
million – almost £35.5 million - to develop grid tools that will
boost business competitiveness and help create new markets and
services.
The bulk of the funding will go to four projects that will each
receive an EU contribution of around €9 million. Together with
eight smaller projects also being launched, these bring together
dozens of universities, research institutes, and large and small
companies from across Europe to muster the "critical mass" of
expertise and resources necessary to trigger change.
"These projects will accelerate Europe's drive to turn its
substantial grid research investment into tangible economic
benefits", said Enterprise and Information Society Commissioner
Olli Rehn. "Greater use of grid tools is key for mobilising
Europe's scientific and technological capital to deliver greater
competitiveness and better products."
