Abstract: A method of automated distributed resource monitoring in a large distributed computing environment, wherein a given master resource comprises a set of given computing resources. The method begins by associating a set of one or more “cells” with a set of given computing resources that comprise the master resource. Each cell preferably is associated with a respective one of the set of given computing resources and has a set of one or more attributes whose values collectively define a “state” of the cell. Whenever a change in an attribute of a given cell effects a change in that cell's state, the attribute change is propagated across each cell directly impacted by the cell state change, as well as to those observing cells that may be indirectly affected.

Abstract: A method of managing time expressions for use by applications in a distributed computer network having a management server servicing a set of managed computers. The method begins by defining a set of timers, with each timer preferably comprising an expression of logical operators with a set of one or more primitives as operands. The set of timers is stored in a hierarchical namespace associated with the management server. Preferably, the timers and primitives are stored separately in the hierarchical namespace, with the primitives indexed by name for prompt retrieval.