4 distributed systems types
1. Client-server
A client-server distributed system uses a simple communication method where a client
sends input to a separate server and the server returns an output response to the client.
Client-server interactions often include messaging, data collection and calculations. This
structure typically applies to networks with multiple servers and devices with similar
abilities and components.
2. Peer-to-peer
A peer-to-peer distributed system type follows a decentralized organization. Each
device can operate as both the client and server. Computer network applications use a
peer-to-peer system to organize processors that communicate with each other but
maintain separate local memory bases. The programs and servers in this network all
have the same privileges, access and functions and communicate at the same level
without a hierarchy.
3. Three-tier
A three-tier distributed system uses separate servers and layers for each function of a
program. It includes a presentation layer, application layer and data layer. The
presentation system contains and displays the user interface. The application layer
accesses and processes information from the database. The data tier hosts and stores
the database and user information. Three-tier systems allow developers to scale and
change each tier without affecting or modifying the entire system.
4. N-tier
N-tier or multitier distributed systems create separate servers and sections for each
function in a network. N-tier systems follow a similar structure to the three-tier system in
separating servers into presentation, application and data layers, but an N-tier system
can contain any number of functions in a network. This system type occurs in
applications, web enterprises and data systems.
Pros of distributed systems
Fault tolerance
Using a distributed system structure increases the fault tolerance of your program.
When one server or device encounters an issue, the other systems can detect the issue
and perform the function independently. Using multiple devices with the same
capabilities and programming backup procedures allows for continuous workflow, even
when problems arise in one area.
Horizontal scaling
As an application or program grows and intakes larger quantities of data, it becomes
necessary to scale the programs and database to fit its needs. A distributed system
allows you to add new devices or servers that increase the capacity and operations of a
network. The structure of a distributed system provides the ability to create and
implement new processes easily and at any time.
Efficient computing
Creating a distributed system structure increases the efficiency and speed of computing
functions and processes. Using multiple servers in a synchronized workflow allows each
component to operate at a greater speed by limiting the data and processes stored and
performed by a single server or device. Distributed systems benefit large-scale
operations or processes by expediting and performing complex functions efficiently.
Flexible function
Distributed systems increase the flexibility of computer programs and large-scale
functions. Having multiple servers that adapt and communicate to provide different
functions depending on the network's needs allows programmers to make changes and
adjust settings easily. The versatility of each device in a distributed system structure
makes the operations flexible and allows for customization of the input and output for a
function.
Cons of distributed systems
Here are some cons of using a distributed system architecture for your network:
Data integration
Using a system with multiple elements that depend on synchronized communication
requires accurate data integration and input. Ensuring that the processes, functions and
changes in a distributed system remain consistent can present a challenge.
Professionals with a high level of programming knowledge and skills have the ability to
create and maintain effective and consistent network systems.
Complex setup
Creating, developing and establishing a distributed system requires time, labor and
resources. Setting up a complex network can have a high initial cost. For organizations
that rely on accurate, efficient and constant computing functions, the benefits and
stability of an effective distributed system often outweigh the startup costs over time.
Security risks
A distributed system includes multiple servers, devices, databases and connections.
Each of these components introduces the possibility of security breaches and issues.
The greater number of vulnerabilities increases the security risk of the information and
data within a network. Implementing greater security measures and running continuous
protection programs on each server can help ensure that each server and point of
contact remain as secure as possible.
