Parallel Computing

In parallel computing multiple processors performs multiple tasks assigned to them simultaneously. Memory in parallel systems can either be shared or distributed. Parallel computing provides concurrency and saves time and money.

Distributed Computing

In distributed computing we have multiple autonomous computers which seem to the user as a single system.In distributed systems there is no shared memory and computers communicate with each other through message passing.  In distributed computing a single task is divided among different computers.

Difference between Parallel Computing and Distributed Computing

S.NO

PARALLEL COMPUTING

DISTRIBUTED COMPUTING

1

Many operations are performed simultaneously

System components are located at different locations

2

Single computer is required

Uses multiple computers

3

Multiple processors perform multiple operations

Multiple computers perform multiple operations

4

It may have shared or distributed memory

It have only distributed memory

5

Processors communicate with each other through bus

Computers communicate with each other through message passing.

6

Improves the system performance

Improves system scalability, fault tolerance and resource sharing capabilities