Abstract: A scalable distributed computing network comprises a plurality of nodes each independently executing software components. When a node having a managerial role in the network leaves the network, the remaining nodes negotiate among the nodes to assume the managerial role by broadcasting a message indicating the interest in assuming the managerial role. The node determined to be the best qualified node for the role is then selected by the system to assume the new managerial role.

Abstract: A method for finding a resource requested by a node in a scalable system. The system interconnects a plurality of nodes, with at least one node being associated with at least one resource. Each resource has an active state, in which the resource is available to other nodes, and an inactive state, in which the resource is not available. The method includes automatically identifying resources which become available by switching from the inactive to the active state. The method also includes automatically informing the requesting node that the requested resource has become available.

Abstract: A method for independently executing software components in a node of a network containing many nodes. The method includes the step of generating a logical hierarchy of the roles of the nodes where any node can assume one or multiple roles, with the assumption of which neither requires nor precludes the assumption of any other role, and with the hierarchy having three or more levels. The method also includes the step of negotiating the role of the nodes when there is a change in the configuration of the network, with the node at the lowest level of the hierarchy being able to assume the role of the highest level of the hierarchy.

Abstract: Methods for routing packets from a source node to a destination node using at least one context bridge. Each node has a routing protocol, with the context bridge being one of many context bridges in a heterogeneous network having many nodes. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of receiving a packet at the source node, and determining whether the destination node of the packet has a routable protocol. If the destination has no routable protocol, a route discovery packet is sent to discover one or more context bridges so as to automatically route the packet from the source to the destination node. Based on the discovery, the packet is routed to the destination through one or more context bridges. If the destination has a routable protocol, the packet is routed from the source to the destination using the routable protocol.

Abstract: A method for independently executing software components in a node of a network containing many nodes. The method including generating a logical hierarchy of the roles of the nodes where any node can assume one or multiple roles; and negotiating the role of the nodes when there is a change in the configuration of the network. Another technique locates resources requested by a node in a scalable system interconnecting many nodes in a network. The technique includes identifying resources that join the network by switching from an inactive to an active state; and informing the requester the availability of the requested resource. A further technique determines routing paths in a context bridge which is able to route packets between nodes. The technique includes setting up a list of context bridges; listening for routing information packets which are periodically broadcast by other context bridges; and updating the database using the information contained in the received routing information packets.