Runtime debuggers for parallel and distributed systems: a uniform design approach

A bstract Debugging parallel and distributed programs is harder than debugging sequential programs. A number of debuggers have been developed to alleviate the problem of debugging parallel and distributed programs. But there is a lack of any uniform approach to debugging such systems and as a result each debugger is different. In this paper, first the reasons behind this absence of theory of debugging is explored. Then an attempt is made to determine common techniques employed in some available debuggers. These techniques are classified according to the situations where they are applicable. Finally some suggestions arc made about how one can go about designing more general purpose debuggers. A layered approach that isolates the peculiarities of different situations is recommended.