In basic terms grid computing can be described as a network of computers and data storage systems, brought together to share computing power. Where a computer is not being used, or is using only a fraction of its power, the grid will allow that power to be used by someone else.
The concept differs from the World Wide Web, which only enables communication through browsers, because it actually allows access to computer resources. It is also different from peer-to-peer computing, which enables file-sharing between two users, because it allows sharing of resources among many, not just two.
The potential of computer grids is enormous and when the concept becomes mainstream it holds the promise of transforming the computer power available to the individual. At present a computer user is restricted by the power of his computer. When the grid comes on line there will be no restrictions: the cheapest, oldest model will have access to the computing resources of millions of other computers worldwide.
The most famous grid currently in operation is the SETI@home project. This offers free software which runs when a participating PC is in screensaver mode, donating the computer's idle processing power to solving the question of whether there is intelligent life on other planets. Results are returned periodically from each PC to a data centre in exchange for new numbers to crunch.
Scientists at CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research near Geneva, are collaborating in the creation of what is hoped will be the world's largest computer grid, in order to analyse the massive volume of data that will be produced when CERN's latest and largest ever particle accelerator (known as the Large Hadron Collider, or LHC) becomes operational in 2007.
But access to such technologies should not simply be the preserve of the biggest corporations and laboratories, says the Commission. It has therefore launched a funding package of €52 million – almost £35.5 million - to develop grid tools that will boost business competitiveness and help create new markets and services.
The bulk of the funding will go to four projects that will each receive an EU contribution of around €9 million. Together with eight smaller projects also being launched, these bring together dozens of universities, research institutes, and large and small companies from across Europe to muster the "critical mass" of expertise and resources necessary to trigger change.
"These projects will accelerate Europe's drive to turn its substantial grid research investment into tangible economic benefits", said Enterprise and Information Society Commissioner Olli Rehn. "Greater use of grid tools is key for mobilising Europe's scientific and technological capital to deliver greater competitiveness and better products."