Cluster, grid and cloud computing: A detailed comparison

Cloud computing is rapidly growing as an alternative to conventional computing. However, it is based on models like cluster computing, distributed computing, utility computing and grid computing in general. This paper presents an end-to-end comparison between Cluster Computing, Grid Computing and Cloud Computing, along with the challenges they face. This could help in better understanding these models and to know how they differ from its related concepts, all in one go. It also discusses the ongoing projects and different applications that use these computing models as a platform for execution. An insight into some of the tools which can be used in the three computing models to design and develop applications is given. This could help in bringing out the innovative ideas in the field and can be explored to the needs in the computing world.