1. To trial the platform and take tests, please take a few seconds to SIGN UP
and SET UP FREE.
2. Searching for something specific? See our text overview of all tests. Scroll right for levels, and lists.
Join 36000+ teachers and students using TTIO.
Distributed computing is a model in which components of a software system are shared among multiple computers. Even though the components are spread out across multiple computers, they are run as one system. This is done in order to improve efficiency and performance.
Climateprediction.net is a distributed computing project that works towards reducing the amount of uncertanties in climate models. It does this by running hundreds of thousands of different models, using the idle time of personal computers.
Compare the above to:
Bitcoin is a digital currency first introduced in 2009, which is described as a peer-to-peer, electronic cash system. Bitcoin creation and transfer is based on an open source cryptographic protocol and is not managed by any central authority.
Centralised system:
...is computing done at a central location, using terminals that are attached to a central computer. The computer itself may control all the peripherals directly (if they are physically connected to the central computer), or they may be attached via a terminal.
Distributed system:
...is a system in which components located on networked computers communicate and coordinate their actions by passing messages. The components interact with each other in order to achieve a common goal.
Advantages of centrally controlled system:
- Easier to administrate - More control
Advantages of distributed systems:
- Quicker access - Shared load - Response more specific to environment
Disadvantages of centrally controlled system: - If the main sensor/controller fails, the whole system fails
Disadvantages of distributed systems: - Much more expensive to have multiple controllers/sensors - Much more complex than a centralised system
www.teachyourselfpython.com