What is the difference between a symmetric multiprocessing system and a distributed operating system?
In a symmetric multiprocessing system, a group of processors with the same capabilities share memory and are located within the same computer system. The existence of multiple processors is transparent to the user. In a distributed operating system, the group of processors each addresses its own memory, are located in different computers connected by a network, and can have differing capabilities. The operating system allows the user to treat the collection of systems as one computer.
