Difference Between Multiprocessor and Multicomputer

Last Updated : 01 Feb, 2024

There are multiple different types of computers used for different purposes. Multiprocessors and multicomputers are types of architectures used in the computer. Which multiprocessor is one where multiple processors are used that share the same memory for operating and are connected to function together. While in multicomputer multiple computers that have different processor are connected and each has their own different memory. They share the data to work together. In this article, we will majorly discuss the difference between these two computer architectures and their working.

What is Multiprocessor Architecture?

To understand differences we need to have an understanding of what is a multiprocessor and multicomputer.

As the name suggests "Multiprocessor" in this architecture we have multiple processors that work together and are connected to each other. They have a shared memory. This means they will make changes in the same memory and every processor can access that memory. All of the processors are connected to memory by topology. Like the simplest implementation for understanding Multiprocessor below.

What is Multicomputer Architecture?

In multicomputer we link multiple processor to work together like we done in multiprocessor. But now each node have its own memory connected to it. When multiple processors with there own memory are connected by a network it is known as multicomputer. In this we do not require shared memory. With the help of connection they can communicate with each other.

More info about multiprocessor and multicomputer

Difference Between Multicomputer and Multiprocessor

Features	Multiprocessor	Multicomputer
System Architecture	Architecture is based upon multiple processor having shared memory are connected for working together	In this multiple computers having processor and there own memory are connected by a interconnected to share data and have communication.
Memory Access	All the systems share single common memory and they all performs operations in it.	All have there own set of memory for storing data and then the data is shared.
Communication Model	It uses implicit communication model because all the data structures and variables are in common memory.	It uses explicit message sharing model, which involves sending and receiving messages.
Construction	It is easy and lesser expensive since single memory is used.	It is comparitively more expensive and complex as they have multiple memories and all share data.
Network type	Its a dynamic network where data is read and write by all systems during runtime	Its a static network.
Speed	its execution speed is fast	It is comparitively slower
Scalibility	It have limited scalibility since single memory is used. A large network will create problems	It have higher scalibility and adding more nodes of processors is possible.
Fault Tolerance	If there is fault on memory it will affect all processors.	Faults can be handled individually by each node, it won't spoil the whole network.
Examples	Symmetric Multiprocessing (SMP) systems, where the whole system processes common tasks	Cluster computing, distributed computing, grid computing, cloud computing, parallel servers are some examples for Multicomputer
Programming	Easier programming as each utilizing parallel programming.	It requires distributed computing

Difference between 8080 and 8085 Microprocessor

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Difference Between Multiprocessor and Multicomputer

What is Multiprocessor Architecture?

What is Multicomputer Architecture?

Difference Between Multicomputer and Multiprocessor

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