Abstract: A method and apparatus for requesting and processing services from a plurality of workstations (30), remote computers (28) or electronic devices (34), i.e., "nodes," connected via the Internet (20) is provided. The nodes are categorized into classes of resources according to the type of resource or resources that node can provide. When an application run by a node requires a service from a resource, the node broadcasts a request for the service via Internet (20). The service request is received and stored by the nodes comprising the class of resource providing the requested service. The first node capable of processing the service request does so, and then broadcasts a message to the remaining nodes of the class indicating that the service request is in process. Consequently, the remaining nodes of the class defer processing the service request until they receive confirmation that the requested service has been performed.