Unit 1: Introduction to Computing Paradigms
## Introduction to Computing Paradigms
### 1. High-Performance Computing (HPC)
High-Performance Computing involves using powerful systems, like
supercomputers and clusters, to process and analyze vast amounts
of data at high speeds.
- Key Features:
- Large-scale processing capabilities.
- Highly parallelized operations.
- Used for simulations, weather prediction, and scientific research.
- Example: Weather forecasting models use HPC to analyze
atmospheric data in real-time.
### 2. Parallel Computing
Parallel computing splits a large task into smaller sub-tasks that are
processed simultaneously on multiple processors.
- Types:
- Shared Memory Systems: All processors access a single shared
memory.
- Distributed Memory Systems: Each processor has its memory, and
communication happens via a network.
- Applications:
- Artificial intelligence, image rendering, and real-time simulations.
### 3. Distributed Computing
Distributed computing involves a group of independent computers
working collaboratively to achieve a common goal.
- Characteristics:
- Geographically dispersed nodes.
- Tasks are divided, processed independently, and results are
aggregated.
- Applications:
- Google Search engine and blockchain technology.
- Advantages:
- Cost-effectiveness, scalability, and fault tolerance.
### 4. Cluster Computing
Cluster computing connects multiple computers to work as a single
system. Each computer in the cluster is called a node.
- Advantages:
- Cost-efficient compared to supercomputers.
- High reliability; if one node fails, others take over.
- Examples:
- Scientific simulations and big data analytics.
### 5. Grid Computing
Grid computing links multiple distributed computers to function as a
single resource for solving complex problems.
- Key Points:
- It operates on a large scale, spanning organizations and locations.
- Requires middleware to manage resources and tasks.
- Applications:
- Protein folding in biology, financial modeling, and movie rendering.
### 6. Cloud Computing
Cloud computing offers on-demand delivery of IT resources via the
internet.
- Definition: A paradigm enabling access to shared resources
(servers, storage, applications) on a pay-as-you-go basis.
- Advantages:
- Reduced infrastructure costs.
- Easy scalability and accessibility.
- Enables remote work.
- Examples:
- Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud.
### 7. Bio-Computing
Bio-computing merges biology and computational methods to
address biological challenges.
- Applications:
- DNA sequencing, drug design, and personalized medicine.
- Advantages:
- Provides insights into biological processes.
### 8. Mobile Computing
Mobile computing allows data and computing services to be
accessed from mobile devices connected to wireless networks.
- Features:
- Portability and convenience.
- Continuous connectivity through wireless technologies.
- Applications:
- Banking, e-commerce, and GPS navigation.
### 9. Quantum Computing
Quantum computing leverages quantum mechanics to perform
computations that traditional computers cannot handle efficiently.
- Principles:
- Superposition: A quantum bit (qubit) can exist in multiple states
simultaneously.
- Entanglement: Qubits are interconnected, allowing simultaneous
processing of data.
- Applications:
- Cryptography, optimization, and material design.
### 10. Optical Computing
Optical computing uses light (photons) rather than electricity
(electrons) for data transmission and computation.
- Benefits:
- Faster data processing.
- Energy-efficient systems.
- Future Potential:
- High-speed signal processing and AI acceleration.
### 11. Nano-Computing
Nano-computing deals with computing systems and devices at the
nanoscale (1-100 nanometers).
- Applications:
- Nanorobots for drug delivery.
- Nano sensors in medical diagnostics.
- Challenges:
- Fabrication complexities and high costs.
### 12. Network Computing
Network computing involves sharing computational resources across
a network of computers to improve collaboration and efficiency.
- Examples:
- Distributed file systems and virtual desktops.
- Benefits:
- Resource sharing, reduced hardware costs.
## Cloud Computing Fundamentals
### 1. Motivation and Need
Cloud computing addresses challenges in traditional computing,
such as scalability, high costs, and maintenance overhead.
- Key Drivers:
- The growing demand for IT resources.
- Need for flexibility and reduced capital expenditures.
### 2. Definition of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing refers to delivering IT services (storage, servers,
applications) over the internet, eliminating the need for physical
infrastructure.
### 3. Principles of Cloud Computing
#### Five Essential Characteristics
1. On-demand Self-Service: Users can provision resources without
human interaction.
2. Broad Network Access: Resources are accessible over standard
networks.
3. Resource Pooling: Multi-tenant model with shared resources.
4. Rapid Elasticity: Resources scale up or down as needed.
5. Measured Service: Resource usage is monitored and billed
accordingly.
#### Four Cloud Deployment Models
1. Public Cloud: Accessible to the public, managed by a service
provider (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud).
2. Private Cloud: Exclusive to a single organization for added control
and security.
3. Community Cloud: Shared among organizations with common
requirements.
4. Hybrid Cloud: Combines public and private clouds for flexibility.
#### Three Service Models
1. IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): Virtualized computing resources
(e.g., storage, networking).
2. PaaS (Platform as a Service): Tools for application development
(e.g., Heroku).
3. SaaS (Software as a Service): Software delivered over the internet
(e.g., Microsoft Office 365).
### 4. Cloud Ecosystem
A cloud ecosystem includes service providers, consumers, brokers,
and auditors. It ensures seamless delivery and management of cloud
services.
### 5. Requirements for Cloud Services
- Scalability: Adapt to varying workloads.
- Security: Protect data and resources.
- Compliance: Meet regulatory standards.
- Reliability: Ensure high uptime and availability.
