Grid Computing Vs Cloud Computing – Top 13 Factors of Difference
by DebugShala Team

In our previous session, we explored some of the best books on Cloud Computing. Today, we are going to delve into the comparison between Grid Computing and Cloud Computing.

Grid Computing vs Cloud Computing

Before diving into the differences between Grid Computing and Cloud Computing, let's first understand what these terms mean.

What is Grid Computing?

Grid computing involves a large network of computers connected in parallel to form a computer cluster. This combination of computers works together to solve complex problems. In grid computing, the service of the computer network is used to run independent tasks. These grids are often constructed using general-purpose middleware software libraries. Grid computing supports various applications, such as scientific, mathematical, and educational tasks, using several computing resources.

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud Computing is the delivery of computing services, such as databases, software, storage, servers, and networking, via the internet. Cloud computing provides a virtual space to store and manage data, which can be accessed remotely. It allows businesses and individuals to run infrastructure more efficiently and integrate operations swiftly.

Grid Computing Vs Cloud Computing

Let's explore the key differences between Grid Computing and Cloud Computing.

Types and Deployment
Cloud computing has evolved into different types: Public Clouds, Private Clouds, Community Clouds, and Hybrid Clouds.
Grid computing, on the other hand, includes distributed computing systems, distributed information systems, and pervasive systems.

Main Focus and Goal
The main focus of cloud computing is to provide affordable services while offering flexibility, scalability, and increased availability and security.
Grid computing focuses on solving large-scale problems by leveraging networks and resources to deliver computing as a utility.

Usage and Security
Cloud computing stores a massive amount of data, providing security with proper credentials for access.
Grid computing uses idle energy in computers and is often employed for scientific or sensitive tasks.

Dependency Basis
Cloud computing depends entirely on the internet and data centers for operation, ensuring high security and performance.
Grid computing can continue functioning even if one computer fails, as other computers in the network pick up the task, enhancing reliability.

Space and Storage
Cloud computing is designed for quick backups and data restoration, with automatic updates and efficient data processing.
Grid computing optimizes space and allows access to additional resources as needed.

Differences and Similarities
Both cloud computing and grid computing are network-based technologies. They differ in aspects like architecture, business models, and interoperability but share certain characteristics like distributed computing.

Remote Usage
Cloud computing manages computing resources at a single location, which can be accessed from different places.
In contrast, grid computing uses distributed systems with resources spread across multiple locations, making it more flexible.

Resource Requirements
Grid computing requires a substantial amount of resources, often involving more than just computers.
Cloud computing accesses resources through the internet, without requiring direct access to the resources.

Problem Solving Techniques
Grid computing divides a large task into smaller tasks, which are solved by multiple computers.
Cloud computing pools resources from a cluster of servers to solve problems efficiently.

Services and Capabilities
Cloud computing offers various internet-based services such as data management, security, and job queries, eliminating the need for new hardware and software.
Grid computing, on the other hand, is mainly used by academic researchers to handle complex tasks involving large data volumes.

Terminology
While grid computing is a collection of resources used to resolve a single task, cloud computing is a form of virtualized resources distributed across locations.

Research
Grid computing provides resources as utilities for virtual organizations and user communities to resolve problems over the internet.
Cloud computing involves administrators managing the entire system, ensuring efficient operation and maintenance.

Interoperability
Grid computing supports interoperability easily, while cloud computing often faces vendor lock-in issues, making it difficult to switch between service providers.

Summary of Grid Computing Vs Cloud Computing

Both grid computing and cloud computing are vital technologies contributing to modern computing. While grid computing is generally used for non-time-dependent tasks, cloud computing offers flexibility and scalability for various computing needs.