What is Distributed Network?
Distributed network systems spread out computer programming, software, or data across multiple computers, which communicate and depend on each other to sustain the network. The distributed network architecture creates a control system while distributing the load.
The digital age is replete with the use of distributed networks. Its applicability is everywhere, from the internet itself, telecommunication systems, reservation systems, and much more. A typical distributed system will consist of several interacting devices that each run their systems but communicate with others within the network. They can be as small as a single client communicating or as large as the internet itself.
What Are The Types Of Distributed Systems?
Distributed networks differ greatly depending on their usage. In web development, client/server distributed networks feature prominently. Peer-to-peer systems are also a prominent fixture. Others include middleware and three-tier distributed networks.
Why Are Distributed Systems Needed?
Using distributed networks offer advantages as:
- Reliability- The crashing of one server is not fatal to the network. With so much of modern life online, this trait is crucial.
- Scalability- Distributed systems can support more machines and scale-up. The internet’s sheer size today relative to its launch three decades ago is proof of this scalability.
- Flexibility- It is easier to add or remove servers from the network without affecting operations completely.
- Openness – Distribution system access both locally and remotely is easier. It eliminates the silo effect of singular systems by creating an interoperable and seamless network.
- High performance- Ultimately, distributed systems generally provide higher performance than centralized computer clusters.
Distributed Networks versus Decentralization
Decentralization is a related concept that has become significant in the modern world. What is the difference between distributed networks and decentralization? Well, distributed databases are a single logical database installed on many computers at different locations linked via the data communication network. Decentralized databases, on the other hand, are databases installed on systems physically distinct but have a higher sense of autonomy. Notably, they each run the code, ensuring that the network is inherently more secure than those with centralized points of failure. Participants mostly stake a stipulated amount of tokens in blockchain networks and set up the requisite infrastructure to serve as node operators. Bitcoin has a notoriously resource-intensive consensus algorithm. Staking is the default method today for blockchain networks adding node operators.
Application of Decentralized Networks
The application of decentralized networks in the blockchain era has elevated their importance. Blockchain technology synchronizes information in a distributed network to provide an immutable ledger of transactions visible to all participants. It is the basis of cryptocurrencies and provides a secure system for exchanging and storing these virtual currencies.
Decentralization means the removal of centralized control. Cryptocurrencies utilize the blockchain to create monetary systems that remove middlemen like banks from approving transactions. The goal is for individuals to transact directly, should they wish. This model differs fundamentally from traditional finance.
Decentralized computing vastly improves the performance of large-scale projects. Combining the power of multiple machines allows for scalability and efficiency. The literal transformation of the internet today is a testament to this effect.
