What is grid computing?

At its simplest form, grid computing describes a connected network of computers where resources, such as storage, memory and processing power, are shared with authorized users in the grid. In an ideal setting, a grid computer network combines the resources of all units in the network to execute complex tasks.

An effective grid computer network completes tasks quickly and efficiently by sharing resources. A real-world example of grid computing, as of 2014, is the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence project, which uses a network of computers to analyze data collected by radio telescopes to search for potential communications from intelligent alien life forms.