Abstract: An attribute of a descriptor associated with a task informs a runtime environment of which instructions a processor is to run to schedule a plurality if resources for completion of the task in accordance with a level of quality of service in a service level agreement.

Abstract: An install factory creates install packages used to install complex applications onto multiple data processing systems in a reliable and reproducible manner. The install factory takes a variety of inputs to build a custom installation package. The custom install package may be used repeatedly for installs, using the same install package, a full install on a first data processing system, an updated install on a second data processing system, a fix or service pack on a third data processing system, and also configure an application on a fourth data processing system. Thereafter, all data processing systems have the desired level of the application installed. In addition, the install factory may create install packages that are modified in accordance with user preferences.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, system, and signal-bearing medium that in an embodiment switch between blocking I/O and non-blocking I/O based on the number of concurrent connections. If the number of concurrent connections is greater than a high threshold, then blocking I/O is switched to non-blocking I/O. If the number of concurrent connections is less than a low threshold, then non-blocking I/O is switched to blocking I/O. In this way, I/O may be optimized depending on the number of concurrent connections, which increases performance.

Abstract: In a preferred aspect of the present invention, a method for augmenting a hierarchy of layered applications and corresponding protocols can include applying a discrimination algorithm to a selection process in which a particular application/protocol layer in a listing of adjacent application/protocol layers is selected to receive traffic flowing through the hierarchy. A new application/protocol layer can be inserted adjacent to the particular application/protocol layer in the hierarchy. Also, the new application/protocol layer can be added to the listing. Finally, the discrimination algorithm can be replaced with another discrimination algorithm programmed to consider the new application/protocol layer during the selection process. Significantly, each of the steps of performing the inserting, adding and replacing steps can be performed without decoupling or disabling other applications and protocols in the hierarchy.