Which of these is a fundamental feature of grid computing?

A fundamental feature of grid computing is the ability to collaborate by sharing resources across multiple systems. This distributed approach enables different computing resources, including processors, storage, and applications, to work together as a single cohesive system. By pooling together resources from various locations, grid computing allows for increased computational power and efficiency, making it ideal for handling large-scale problems that require significant processing ability and data sharing.

The other options mention aspects that do not align with the core principles of grid computing. Isolated computing environments would negate the collaborative advantage that grid computing provides. Relying solely on local processing power contradicts the essence of grid computing, which thrives on the integration of distributed resources. Lastly, while some grid computing setups may involve significant hardware, it does not inherently require extensive hardware for all implementations. The focus is more on the collaboration of existing resources rather than a requirement for new or specialized hardware.