Chapter 29 - Peer-to-Peer Technologies

Abstract

This chapter discusses the working of scalable, self-organizing distributed systems that are often referred to as peer-to-peer (P2P) systems. P2P systems push the limits of scalability and robustness, but tend to focus on more homogeneous resources and slower network connections than do contemporary Grids. P2P systems are a potential source of resources for Grid applications; a peer-to-peer research can be a source of scalable and robust algorithms that can be applied to Grid services. P2P systems are Internet applications that harness the resources of a large number of autonomous participants. P2P and Grid computing are both concerned with enabling resource sharing within distributed communities. However, different base assumptions have led to distinct requirements and technical directions. P2P systems have focused on resource sharing in environments characterized by potentially millions of users, most with homogenous desktop systems and low bandwidth, intermittent connections to the Internet. P2P computing has had a dramatic effect on mainstream computing, even blurring the distinctions among computer science, engineering, and politics. An unfortunate side effect is that due consideration often has not been given to the classic research in distributed systems.