Chapter 1

What is a decentralized system?

A decentralized system is a networked computer system in which processes and resources are spread across multiple computers.

What is a distributed system?

A distributed system is a networked computer system in which processes and resources are sufficiently spread across multiple computers.

What is distribution transparency in a distributed system?

Distribution transparency is the phenomenon by which a distributed system attempts to hide the fact that its processes and resources are physically distributed.

How is the root of the Domain Name System characterized?

The root of the Domain Name System is logically centralized and physically distributed.

What defines an open distributed system?

An open distributed system offers components that can easily be used by or integrated into other systems.

What does it mean to ensure integrity in a system?

To ensure integrity means to allow alterations to assets of a system only in an authorized way.

What is the state of the root in DNS?

The root of DNS is both logically centralized and physically distributed.

What is dependability in the context of components?

A component C depends on C* if the correctness of C’s behavior depends on the correctness of C*’s behavior, reflecting the concept of dependability.

What does availability mean in system readiness?

Availability is the readiness for usage of a system.

What is a Transaction Processing Monitor?

A Transaction Processing Monitor is the framework that organizes the execution of transactions when data is distributed across several servers.

What is a network protocol?

A network protocol is a set of rules that govern how data is transmitted and received over a network.

What is a server?

A server is a computer or system that provides data, resources, or services to other computers, known as clients.

What is latency in networking?

Latency is the time delay between the sending and receiving of data over a network.

What is bandwidth?

Bandwidth refers to the maximum rate of data transfer across a network path.

What is a firewall?

A firewall is a security device that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.

What is cloud computing?

Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services over the internet, allowing for scalable resources and flexible access.

What does IP stand for in networking?

IP stands for Internet Protocol, which is the principal communication protocol for relaying datagrams across network boundaries.

What is a VPN?

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, creates a secure connection over a less secure network, such as the internet.

What is a domain name?

A domain name is a human-readable address used to identify a specific computer or resource on the internet.

What is data redundancy?

Data redundancy is the duplication of data, which can enhance data reliability and availability.

What is a subnet?

A subnet is a segmented piece of a larger network that uses a common addressing scheme.

What is TCP/IP?

TCP/IP stands for Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol, which is a set of protocols used for transmitting data over the internet.

What is an IP address?

An IP address is a unique identifier assigned to each device connected to a network that uses the Internet Protocol.

What is a router?

A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks, directing traffic on the internet.

What is a switch?

A switch is a networking device that connects devices within a network and uses MAC addresses to forward data only to the intended recipient.

What is a proxy server?

A proxy server is an intermediary server that forwards requests from clients seeking resources from other servers.

What is DHCP?

DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, which automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on a network.

What is a metric in networking?

A metric is a value used by routing protocols to determine the best path for data transmission.

What is network topology?

Network topology refers to the arrangement of different elements (links, nodes, etc.) in a computer network.

What is the OSI model?

The OSI model is a conceptual framework used to understand and implement network protocols in seven layers.