Resource-sharing computer communications networks

The development of resource-sharing networks can facilitate the provision of a wide range of economic and reliable computer services. Computer-communication networks allow the sharing of specialized computer resources such as data bases, programs, and hardware. Such a network consists of both the computer resources and a communications system interconnecting them and allowing their full utilization to be achieved. In addition, a resource-sharing network provides the means whereby increased cooperation and interaction can be achieved between individuals. An introduction to computer-to-computer networks and resource sharing is provided and some aspects of distributed computation are discussed.