Distributed Operating Systems and Concepts

It has to complete within the alloted time.

This is probably the most optimal in terms of turnaround/response time. When a job comes in, it inserts it in the ready queue based on its length. When the current process is done, picks the one at the head of the queue and runs it.

This option is correct as starvation can never occur because no priority is given. Order of time unit allocation is based upon process arrival time, similar to FCFS.

A distributed system is defined as a collection of independent computers that appears to its users as a single, coherent computer system. The key characteristic is that the multiple machines work together transparently, so users perceive them as one unified system rather than separate entities.

This option is correct because in real-time operating system, there is a fixed time constraint upto which the system has to complete its computing. If the system fails to complete its computing within that time limit, the system will crash.

Data sharing is a primary advantage of distributed systems over standalone PCs. In a distributed system, multiple users can access and share the same data files and resources across different machines, which enables collaboration and reduces data redundancy. This is impossible with isolated PCs.

Distributed systems are more flexible than centralized systems because they can be expanded incrementally, allow resource sharing across different locations, and can adapt to failures by redistributing work. The distributed architecture enables multiple configurations and easy scaling compared to rigid centralized setups.

Fault tolerance is the ability of a system to continue operating properly even when some components fail. In distributed systems, if one machine fails, the system can continue running tasks by redistributing the work to remaining operational machines, ensuring continuous service without interruption.

Location transparency is a key property of distributed systems where users cannot distinguish whether a resource (like a file, printer, or service) is located on their local machine or on a remote computer. The system handles all the details of accessing remote resources transparently, making location irrelevant to the user.

Distributed systems are specifically designed to enable multiple users to work together by sharing resources, data, and processing power across different machines. Unlike parallel systems (which focus on simultaneous processing) or linear systems, distributed systems emphasize collaboration and coordination among users across a network.

Scaling refers to the ability of a system to expand its capacity (by adding more resources, computers, or processing power) without disrupting ongoing user activities. Good scaling allows growth in size and capability while maintaining existing operations and services.

RPC (Remote Procedure Call) is a protocol that allows a program to execute a procedure or function on another computer (remote server) as if it were a local call. The programmer doesn't need to explicitly code the details of network communication - the RPC mechanism handles the transparent communication between local and remote systems.