Linux "perfect" for grid computing

Peter Perregaard, Oracle regional enterprise VP, says computer grids are likely to comprise a variety of operating systems in the foreseeable future, but Linux is the smart option for grid computing.

Oracle`s definition of enterprise grid computing, where small servers are used to act as one large computer, means the same operating system must be used for each level of servers in the grid, explains Perregaard.

"In a grid, database and application servers need to be identical so they can be managed as one system." He says one of the benefits of grid computing is the ability to automate actions across thousands of servers within a single grid.

"At Oracle we think Linux is a big thing because it takes cost away, which makes it perfect for grid computing. Linux is smart because it gives you the opportunity to run the cheapest hardware components."

However, he says there are other considerations, which are likely to mean that companies will initially use what they have as they begin the process of moving to grid computing, and a single operating system is unlikely to be entrenched across all enterprise grids from the start.

Perregaard says although the greatest benefit of grid computing is realised only if all servers in the grid are the same, companies moving to a grid need not necessarily throw out everything they have. He says there are ways of structuring grids to accommodate a heterogeneous environment.

"Companies can build a grid around what they have and migrate to a homogenous grid in time.

"Using a component-based server with Linux is probably the most cost-effective approach to grid computing because power can be added to the grid in smaller increments, which means companies pay only for the extra capacity they need."

Oracle has been promoting enterprise grid computing alongside its new 10g database and application server, which are aimed at implementing a grid architecture. CEO Larry Ellison says the Oracle Enterprise Grid is a smarter alternative to the single big server. "Grid computing offers greater capacity at a lower cost and has no single point of failure."