ABSTRACT
The idea of distributed computing has existed for a long
time-since the days when man realized the limitations
of processing cycles and memory. Even Gordon Moore’s
bold prediction 40 years ago has not reduced the need for
more power and speed. In essence, distributed computing
grew from the need to know more information faster. Its
central idea is to use “parallel” processing instead of a
first-in, first-out, single-processor scheme. From there,
the concept grew from the “parallel” mode to the use of
various computers across a network to accomplish a task.
Grid computing is a form of distributed computing where
computers across a vast network, and perhaps geogra-
phically dispersed, work together to form a “super
computer.” It was originally intended for the academic
and research world, where obtaining fast computers was
not economically feasible. Many universities started
developing their own grids to support some very
advanced research. Later on, as the concept began to
take hold and many earlier issues were resolved, com-
mercial uses of this environment became a reality. An
example of an early grid is the Internet: a series of
computers working together to allow millions of people
to communicate and disseminate information through its
many resources.
