minami

System Models

This chapter introduces the concept of system models, which are used to define assumptions about the behavior of nodes, communication links, and timing in distributed systems. System models help simplify the complex realities of distributed systems, allowing for easier reasoning and algorithm design. The sources provide examples of models for communication links and node behavior:

Communication Link Models

It's important to note that even reliable communication protocols like TCP, which guarantee in-order delivery without loss or duplication, are built on top of unreliable lower-level protocols like IP.

Node Failure Models

Timing Models

Assumptions in the Sources

The sources primarily operate under a system model characterized by:

Model Limitations

While models are helpful for simplifying the complexities of distributed systems, they are still abstractions of reality, and abstractions can sometimes leak. As a reader, it's essential to:

By understanding the strengths and limitations of system models, readers can gain valuable insights into the challenges and complexities of designing and implementing distributed systems.