Introduction to Xgrid: Cluster Computing for Everyone

TL;DR

Xgrid introduces a user-friendly distributed computing system integrated into Mac OS X, enabling users to easily run jobs across multiple computers without complex setup.

Contribution

It is the first desktop OS-integrated architecture for distributed computing, simplifying cluster setup and usage for everyday users.

Findings

Supports multiple computers with minimal setup

Works on standard Mac OS X v10.4 or later

Includes instructions and example code for users

Abstract

Xgrid is the first distributed computing architecture built into a desktop operating system. It allows you to run a single job across multiple computers at once. All you need is at least one Macintosh computer running Mac OS X v10.4 or later. (Mac OS X Server is not required.) We provide explicit instructions and example code to get you started, including examples of how to distribute your computing jobs, even if your initial cluster consists of just two old laptops in your basement.