An Approach to Ad hoc Cloud Computing

TL;DR

This paper proposes an ad hoc cloud computing model that leverages underused enterprise resources, distributing infrastructure software across existing machines without dedicated resources, aiming to improve utilization and elasticity.

Contribution

It introduces a novel ad hoc cloud model that differs from traditional data center clouds by utilizing existing enterprise resources dynamically.

Findings

Conceptual framework for ad hoc cloud architecture

Discussion of implementation challenges and potential solutions

Potential for increased resource utilization within enterprises

Abstract

We consider how underused computing resources within an enterprise may be harnessed to improve utilization and create an elastic computing infrastructure. Most current cloud provision involves a data center model, in which clusters of machines are dedicated to running cloud infrastructure software. We propose an additional model, the ad hoc cloud, in which infrastructure software is distributed over resources harvested from machines already in existence within an enterprise. In contrast to the data center cloud model, resource levels are not established a priori, nor are resources dedicated exclusively to the cloud while in use. A participating machine is not dedicated to the cloud, but has some other primary purpose such as running interactive processes for a particular user. We outline the major implementation challenges and one approach to tackling them.