A model for the design of high performance protocols for a networked computing environment

The advent of high bandwidth local area networks means that it is now possible to interconnect large numbers of devices with widely differing processing capabilities in such a manner that the various devices may closely interact. Before such a system may be realised, it is necessary to define a set of conventions to govern the way in which the network nodes interact with each other. The Triadic Network Model is introduced to describe the interactions between personal computers and high performance computers over a general purpose network by using a third classification of devices, whose purpose is to support the operation of the network as a distributed system. The model is not restricted to any particular network or operating system, but may form the interface between the two. Hence, the use of a protocol set based on this model enables the provision of a uniform interface to the applications software. Some of the principles of a protocol set developed from the Triadic Network Model are presented in the paper.