Shared computing

Shared Computing is a subset of distributed computing that harnesses unused PC resources worldwide, generally for research aims. This technique is also known as CPU scavenging or cycle stealing.

This type of computing was popularized by the SETI Project to harness the power of networked PCs worldwide, in order to solve thorny (i.e. CPU-intensive) research problems.

Current projects

Currently several shared computing projects exist, such as:

• United Devices for protein folding and cancer research.
• Distributed.net for encryption and mathematical research.
• the venerable SETI@home Project, scanning radio telescope wavelengths for signs of intelligent life.
• Cluster Resources, Inc. - TORQUE Resource Manager
• See List of distributed computing projects for other public shared computing projects.