Grid Computing

In Grid computing each resource of networked computer is shared with every other computer in the network. likeprocessing power, memory and data storage.
It can be as simpleas a collection of similar computers running on the same operating system or as complexas inter-networked systems comprised of every computer platform you can think of.
The grid computing concept isn't a new one. It's a special kind of distributed computing.
Every authorized computer would have access to enormous processing power and storage capacity.

Benefits of Grid Computing

Making use of Underutilized Resources: Underutilized resources like memory, storage or processing power,can be shared to other authorised users.
Resource Balancing: The peak load can be shiftedto free machines in the grid; and if the grid is fully utilized, the lowest priority work can be temporarily suspended.
Parallel CPU Capacity: Parallel jobs can be run on different processorsto finish the task early.
Virtual resources and virtual organizations for collaboration: Organizations can share their resourcessuch as data, specialized devices, software, services, and so on giving all of them virtual resources.
Access to additional resources: Additional resources like bandwidth of the Internet can be usedfor data mining that have independent internet connections.
Management: Management is easy, when maintenance is required, grid load can be shifted to other machines.

Computation: The most common resource is computation (Computing Cycle) provided by the processors.

primary ways to exploit the computation resources.

Storage: The second most common resource used in a grid is Data Storage known as Data Grid.
Communications: Communications within the grid are important for sending jobs and data to the grid. The bandwidth is a critical resource that can limit speed of the grid.
Software and Licenses: The grid may have software installed that may be too expensive. These software can be shared amongst the grid users.
Special equipment: Grid may have different devices, capacities, and equipment. These resources can be used on grid by other users.

Grid systems and applications require standard security functions which are authentication, access control, integrity, privacy and non repudiation.

To develop security architecture, following constraints are taken from the characteristics of grid environment and application.

Single Sign-on: A user should authenticate once and should be able to use resources easily.
Protection of Credentials: User passwords, private keys, etc. should be protected.
Interoperability with local security solutions: Local and grid security solution must be compatible.
Exportability: The program should be exportable.
Secure group communication: Communication should be secure within the group.
Multiple implementations: It should provide security to multiple sources.

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