Desktop grid computing at the age of the web

Abstract

In this paper we address the problem of deploying Desktop Grid (DG) middleware when we need it, where we need it, and on any device. One option is to put DG middleware into the cloud but at the condition that the code is suited for integration into the cloud. DG middleware were not generally developed with this option in mind. We propose an advanced prototype for a DG middleware able to run on small devices, i.e. smartphones and tablets as well as on more traditional computing devices (PCs). We explain, based on our experience, that the integration of existing DG middleware for small devices may be extraordinary challenging, resulting in rethinking the DG paradigm in terms of interactions between the components. We adopt a user-centric point of view in considering that the DG technology should be as simple as possible in its use. In another words, we are exploring the ways to offer DG as a service. Our prototype serves to illustrate our techniques and methodologies and to get a feedback and an analysis of our design. © 2013 Springer-Verlag.