Computer Architecture Questions
The main difference between multiprocessors and distributed systems lies in their organization and communication model.
Multiprocessors refer to a system where multiple processors or cores are connected to a shared memory and operate under a single operating system. These processors share the same memory space and can communicate with each other through shared memory, allowing for high-speed communication and coordination between processors. Multiprocessors are typically used to improve performance and increase computational power for a single task or application.
On the other hand, distributed systems consist of multiple independent computers or nodes that are connected through a network. Each node in a distributed system has its own memory and operates under its own operating system. These nodes communicate with each other by passing messages over the network, enabling them to work together on a common goal. Distributed systems are designed to provide fault tolerance, scalability, and resource sharing across multiple machines, making them suitable for handling large-scale applications and tasks that require high availability.
In summary, while multiprocessors focus on improving performance and computational power by sharing memory, distributed systems emphasize fault tolerance, scalability, and resource sharing across multiple independent machines.