Distributed computing

Definition

Distributed computing is a field of computer science that involves a group of computers working together to complete tasks while sharing resources and data over a network. This setup allows for processing power to be utilized more efficiently by distributing workloads among multiple machines, which can lead to increased performance and reliability. It often involves a client-server model and can be seen in cloud computing and parallel processing applications.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Distributed computing systems can improve fault tolerance since they can continue operating even if some components fail.
2. This approach allows for scalability, as more machines can be added to the network to handle increased workloads.
3. In distributed computing, data is often replicated across multiple nodes to ensure consistency and availability.
4. It is widely used in scientific research, financial modeling, and large-scale web services, among other areas.
5. The evolution of distributed computing has been greatly influenced by advancements in networking technologies, making it easier to connect multiple systems.

Review Questions

• How does distributed computing enhance the performance of computational tasks compared to traditional single-machine systems?
  • Distributed computing enhances performance by breaking down tasks into smaller chunks that can be processed simultaneously across multiple machines. This parallel processing reduces the time required for task completion compared to single-machine systems, which must handle all operations sequentially. Additionally, by utilizing the combined processing power of several computers, distributed systems can tackle larger problems that would be infeasible for a single machine.
• Discuss the implications of fault tolerance in distributed computing systems and how it affects overall system reliability.
  • Fault tolerance in distributed computing systems means that the system can continue to function even if one or more components fail. This is achieved through redundancy and replication of data across different nodes, allowing the system to automatically reroute tasks to operational nodes. The ability to withstand failures enhances overall system reliability, making distributed computing ideal for critical applications where downtime must be minimized.
• Evaluate how advancements in networking technologies have influenced the evolution and efficiency of distributed computing systems over time.
  • Advancements in networking technologies, such as faster internet speeds and improved protocols, have significantly influenced the evolution of distributed computing systems. These developments have enabled seamless communication between nodes, allowing for real-time data exchange and coordination among distributed systems. As a result, distributed computing has become more efficient, enabling larger scale applications and services like cloud computing that rely on extensive networks of interconnected devices. This transformation has led to a shift in how computational resources are utilized across various industries.

Related terms

Client-Server Model: A computing architecture where tasks are distributed between service providers (servers) and service requesters (clients), allowing for efficient resource use.

Cloud Computing: A model that enables on-demand access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources, allowing users to access and use resources over the internet.

Parallel Processing: A method in computing where multiple processors execute or process tasks simultaneously to increase computational speed and efficiency.