Running Head: Distributed System Architecture

Running Head Distributed System Architecture

Distributed system architecture encompasses the structural framework of systems that operate across multiple computer nodes interconnected via a network. These systems collaboratively work to achieve common goals, coordinating and communicating through message passing, which enables them to function as a cohesive unit without sharing common memory. The primary purpose of such systems is to enable various networks to operate as a single, integrated entity, offering benefits such as scalability, fault tolerance, and continuous service availability even in case of individual component failures (Guo, Ngai, Yang & Liang, 2015).

Fundamentally, a distributed system comprises several critical components: hardware, software, middleware, and applications. The hardware component pertains to the physical infrastructure, including machines, servers, and networking devices, which form the backbone of the system. The software component provides the necessary programs and operating environments that enable hardware to perform specific functions (Peng, Li, Zhao & Wang, 2015). These software components facilitate communication and coordination among different hardware units by passing messages over networks, effectively managing distributed resources.

The middleware component operates as an intermediary layer that simplifies development by providing a unified programming environment, thus hiding the heterogeneity of underlying hardware and software platforms. It acts as a bridge, enabling applications to function seamlessly across diverse systems. The application component is what users interact with directly; it provides user interfaces and functional modules that allow interaction with the distributed system, enabling functionalities like data processing, transaction management, and resource sharing.

Distributed systems can adopt various architectural styles, each suited for different application needs. Two prominent styles are layered architecture and object-based architecture. The layered architecture organizes system components into distinct layers, each with specific responsibilities, fostering modularity and easier maintenance. By isolating functions into layers, the system enhances scalability and simplifies troubleshooting (Dhawan, Price & Sindhwani, 2016). Conversely, the object-based architecture models systems based on loosely coupled objects that interact through message passing. This approach favors flexibility and adaptability, accommodating dynamic system changes more readily than rigid layered structures.

Both architectural styles offer notable advantages. For instance, their modular nature makes systems easier to maintain and extend, which improves overall quality and adaptability. The layered architecture, however, can face drawbacks such as increased latency, especially if the layering impedes user interface responsiveness or causes excessive communication overhead. It may also struggle with tightly coupled user interactions that require direct access to multiple layers. The object-based architecture, while flexible, can suffer from issues related to the completion of complex tasks within stipulated time frames due to its loosely coupled design, potentially impacting system performance and response times (Dhawan, Price & Sindhwani, 2016).

In conclusion, the architecture of distributed systems plays a pivotal role in their efficiency, scalability, and reliability. Understanding the components—hardware, software, middleware, and applications—is essential for designing systems that meet operational demands. The choice of architectural style must consider factors such as performance requirements, flexibility, maintainability, and resource management. The layered and object-based architectures each bring distinct advantages and challenges, and selecting the appropriate one depends on the specific use case and system objectives. Ultimately, a well-designed distributed architecture ensures that multiple independent computers can work as a cohesive, reliable, and efficient system (Guo, Ngai, Yang & Liang, 2015; Peng, Li, Zhao & Wang, 2015).

References

• Dhawan, V., Price, T. M., & Sindhwani, M. (2016). U.S. Patent No. 9,253,301. Washington, DC: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
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• Peng, M., Li, Y., Zhao, Z., & Wang, C. (2015). System architecture and key technologies for 5G heterogeneous cloud radio access networks. IEEE Network, 29(2), 6-14.
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