Difference between Parallel Computing and Distributed Computing

Difference between Parallel Computing and Distributed Computing


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:

Sr.  No

Parallel Computing

Distributed Computing

1

Many operations are Performed  simultaneously

System components are located at different  locations

2

Single computer is Uses multiple

Computers required

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.

Computer communicate with each other through message passing.

6

Improves  the system performance

Improves system scalability, fault tolerance and resource sharing capabilities