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Level

ICT Topics

Topic

Control

Distributed Systems

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:

Cryptocurrency - Wikipedia

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. 

Centralized-Decentralized-and-Distributed-Networks-2017041028.png

Definitions:

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

Advantages of centrally controlled system:

- Easier to administrate - More control 

Advantages of distributed systems:

- Quicker access - Shared load - Response more specific to environment

Disadvantages

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

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