Mastering Grid Computing

Grid computing, a computing infrastructure that combines computer resources spread over different geographical locations to achieve a common goal, is seen as an efficient solution to solve complex real-world computer problems in a shorter time. Grid computing makes it easier to collaborate with other organizations, makes better use of existing hardware, and reduces transmission congestion, leading to more efficient electricity markets, improved power quality, and a reduced environmental impact. Highlighting the salient features of grid computing, this new book, Mastering Grid Computing: Scheduling and Resource Management, begins with the basic definition of grid and its architecture and also discusses advances to the complex hybridized model of grid computing, grid scheduling, and grid resource management. The chapters address different problems causing grid bottlenecks, the formulation of solution strategies, implementation of grid scheduling, along with case studies of grid computing. This book introduces several scheduling algorithms, such as First Come First Serve (FCFS), Shortest Job First (SJF), Ant Colony Optimization (ACO), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Genetic Algorithm (GA), and few hybrid algorithms. The book evaluates the efficiency of these algorithms using comparative analysis while also discussing notable grid simulators, such as GridSim, MicroGrid, Alea, and Simgrid toolkits. The book offers a practical example of scheduling algorithms through a simulation environment using the Alea simulator. The book presents information on nearly all the major grid applications in different domains and their future prospects. Key features: Provides comprehensive information on grid computing and different approaches to grid scheduling Includes mathematical equations, numerical computations, and performance analysis reports Contains graphical images of scheduling results for better clarity Includes a test on the performance of scheduling algorithms Provides detailed reports on bio-inspired algorithms The book will be a valuable guide for new and experienced researchers and will advance their understanding of the concept of grid computing in a broader perspective. Starting from the basic definition of grid and its architecture to the complex hybridized model of scheduling, this book is a comprehensive resource on grid computing, grid scheduling, and grid resource management.