Grid computingGrid computing is the use of widely distributed computerresources to reach a common goal. A computing grid can be thought of as a distributed system with non-interactive workloads that involve many files. Grid computing is distinguished from conventional high-performance computing systems such as cluster computing in that grid computers have each node set to perform a different task/application.
Operating systemAn operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware and software resources, and provides common services for computer programs. Time-sharing operating systems schedule tasks for efficient use of the system and may also include accounting software for cost allocation of processor time, mass storage, peripherals, and other resources.
ComputerProgrammable machine that processes dataComputers and computing devices from different eras—left to right, top to bottom: Early vacuum-tube computer (ENIAC)Mainframe computer (IBM System/360)Smartphone (LYF Water 2)Desktop computer (IBM ThinkCentre S50 with monitor)Supercomputer (IBM Summit)A computer is a machine that can be programmed to automatically carry out sequences of arithmetic or logical operations (computation).
SupercomputerA supercomputer is a type of computer with a high level of performance as compared to a general-purpose computer.
Distributed computingDistributed computing is a field of computer science that studies distributed systems, defined as computer systems whose inter-communicating components are located on different networked computers. The components of a distributed system communicate and coordinate their actions by passing messages to one another in order to achieve a common goal.
Local area networkA local area network (LAN) is a computer network that interconnects computers within a limited area such as a residence, campus, or building, and has its network equipment and interconnects locally managed. LANs facilitate the distribution of data and the sharing of network devices, such as printers.
Mainframe computerA mainframe computer, informally called a mainframe, maxicomputer, or big iron, is a computer used primarily by large organizations for critical applications like bulk data processing for tasks such as censuses, industry and consumer statistics, enterprise resource planning, and large-scale transaction processing.
Open Source Cluster Application ResourcesOpen Source Cluster Application Resources (OSCAR) is a Linux-based software installation for high-performance cluster computing. OSCAR allows users to install a Beowulf type high performance computing cluster.
Cloud computingCloud computing is defined by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) as "a paradigm for enabling network access to a scalable and elastic pool of shareable physical or virtual resources with self-service provisioning and administration on demand". It is commonly referred to as "the cloud". CharacteristicsIn 2011, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) identified five "essential characteristics" for cloud systems.
Sequoia (supercomputer)Sequoia was a petascaleBlue Gene/Qsupercomputer constructed by IBM for the National Nuclear Security Administration as part of the Advanced Simulation and Computing Program (ASC). It was delivered to the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) in 2011 and was fully deployed in June 2012. Sequoia was dismantled in 2020, its last position on the top500.org list was #22 in the November 2019 list.
Node (computer networking)In networking, a node (Latin: nodus, 'knot') is either a redistribution point or a communication endpoint within telecommunication networks or computer networks. A physical network node is an electronic device that is attached to a network, and is capable of creating, receiving, or transmitting information over a communication channel.
Fault toleranceFault tolerance is the ability of a system to contain the propagation of faults (e.g. failed transistor, shorted connector, intermittent data bus). Faults may manifest as errors (e.g. bad data value, missing message) causing incorrect system state. Failure tolerant systems mask errors and maintain failure-free operation in the presence of one or more faulty components. This capability is essential for high-availability, mission-critical, or even life-critical systems.*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.