Virtual Machine Technology: A Bridge From Large Mainframes To Networks Of Small Computers

The cost effectiveness of small computers (minis and micros) makes it desirable to use networks of such machines in a manner that provides the functionality available on large systems, but takes advantage of the potentially greater reliability of a distributed system. This paper explores how traditional virtual machine concepts can be extended to networks of cooperating virtual machines running on multiple processors. Some design approaches useful in building systems of cooperating virtual machines are then discussed.