Host-Level Protocol Support for Interoperable Distributed Computing

Michigan State University, East Lansing MI

Investigators

Abstract

This research project explores an emerging and potentially important area of distributed computing: interactive distributed applications that involve mobile users with disparate network connections and computing devices. Specifically, the project addresses the design of group communication protocols for reliable multicasting, event synchronization, and leadership control. Key issues include how such protocols adapt to network dynamics produced by mobile nodes and how they accommodate performance differences among network connections and hardware platforms. The project investigates the integration of three host-level techniques to support group communication: enhanced network interface card functionality, new operating system services, and user-level/proxy-based protocols. In addition to analysis and simulation, the project involves extensive experimentation on a research testbed. Expected results include: new protocols and implementation techniques for use by software developers; performance data on the merits and deficiencies of various development techniques; and a framework for developing and testing new applications. On a broader scale, improving the underlying support for interactive distributed applications enhances their performance and makes them more accessible to domains such as education, science, and public safety.