What is the difference between parallel and distributed computing?

What is the difference between parallel and distributed computing?

Parallel computing involves multiple processors executing tasks simultaneously within a single system, while distributed computing involves multiple systems working together over a network.

Can you give me an example of each?

Sure! An example of parallel computing is a multi-core processor running a complex calculation. An example of distributed computing is a cluster of computers processing large datasets collaboratively.

Which one is more efficient?

It depends on the task. Parallel computing is often more efficient for tasks that can be divided into smaller, simultaneous operations, while distributed computing is better for tasks that require resources from multiple locations.

Are there any drawbacks to either method?

Yes, parallel computing can be limited by the number of processors, while distributed computing can face challenges like network latency and data consistency.