Making Cloud Computing Work Across Multiple Organizations Without Central Control

What is it about?

Cloud computing lets developers run applications without managing servers, but most systems require a single company to control everything. This creates problems when multiple organizations want to work together while keeping their own rules and data private. Our research presents a new way for different organizations—like companies, universities, and government agencies—to share computing resources without needing a central controller. Think of it like carpooling: instead of one person owning all the cars and deciding who rides where, each person keeps their own car but agrees to share rides when it makes sense. In our system, each organization: Keeps control of their own computers and data Sets their own rules (like "medical data must stay in Canada" or "financial data needs encryption") Automatically finds partners to help when they're busy Negotiates directly with other organizations, like a marketplace We tested this with a network of computers representing different regions (US, Europe, Asia, Africa). When one region got overwhelmed with work, it could quickly find help from others—improving performance by up to 32% compared to traditional methods. Most importantly, the system ensured that data privacy laws and organizational policies were always followed. This approach is important as more organizations need to collaborate online while respecting different laws, maintaining data sovereignty, and avoiding the risks of depending on a single controlling company. It could enable new types of federated services where universities, hospitals, governments, and businesses work together more effectively while maintaining their independence.

Featured Image

Photo by Hazel Z on Unsplash

Photo by Hazel Z on Unsplash