Distributed.net is a interesting exercise in utilizing spare cpu cycles. Most of the projects they work on are cryptographic challenges, though some are not. At present I'm mostly contributing to the RC5 Challenge Project, which is attempting a brute force attack to solve the secret key challenge issued by RSA Data Security.
The other project which is active is the Optimal Golomb Ruler (OGR) project. Where you can find out what a Golomb Ruler is. [Warning: involves math] Previous projects have included the DES project and the CSC project, both of which were cryptographic challenges as well.
If you have spare cycles, and who doesn't, pick up a distributed net client and pitch it. My contributions to RC5, CSC and OGR are pretty weak. I bet you could do better!
There are another distributed computing projects, if you don't find distributed.net to be interesting. One of the most popular is SETI@home, which uses your cpu cycles to crunch radio telescope data looking for signs of Extra-Terrestrial Life. Others include PiHex, an effort to calculate Pi, and GIMPS, the Great Internet Merseene Prime Search.
| Drew Sudell Last modified: Thu Apr 18 12:28:08 EDT 2002 |
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