What are the advantages of distributed computing over local computing?

Distributed computing offers improved performance, scalability, reliability, and resource sharing compared to local computing.

Distributed computing is a model where components of a software system are shared among multiple computers to improve efficiency and performance. One of the main advantages of this model is its ability to handle large volumes of data and computations more efficiently than a single computer could. This is particularly useful in scenarios where vast amounts of data need to be processed quickly, such as in scientific research or financial services.

Scalability is another significant advantage of distributed computing. As the computational needs of a task increase, additional machines can be added to the network to handle the extra load. This flexibility allows for growth and adaptation as the demands of the system change, without the need for significant hardware upgrades or overhauls. In contrast, local computing systems may require substantial investment in new hardware to accommodate increased demand.

Reliability is also enhanced in a distributed computing environment. If one machine fails, the system can continue to operate by shifting tasks to other machines in the network. This redundancy can help to minimise downtime and ensure that critical processes continue to function, even in the event of a hardware failure. In a local computing setup, a single point of failure could potentially bring the entire system to a halt.

Finally, distributed computing allows for more efficient resource sharing. In a distributed system, resources such as processing power, memory, and storage can be shared across the network, allowing tasks to be completed more quickly and efficiently. This is in contrast to local computing, where resources are confined to a single machine and may not be fully utilised.

In summary, distributed computing offers several advantages over local computing, including improved performance, scalability, reliability, and resource sharing. These benefits make it an attractive option for handling large-scale, complex computing tasks.