Abstract: A method determining distribution of a shared resource among nodes in a network includes: (a) identifying each node according to a function performed by the node; brokers collecting messages from the nodes and disseminating messages among the nodes; publishers originating messages for transmission via the network; subscribers receiving messages transmitted via the network; (b) in no particular order: (1) identifying a need for each node; and (2) identifying the shared resource available for distribution; (c) communicating the shared resource available for distribution within the network to the brokers; and (d) operating each broker to: (1) coordinate communication with all other brokers and individually apply an algorithm to optimally allocate the shared resource among the brokers; or (2) communicate with a central facility coupled with each broker while the central facility applies an algorithm to optimally allocate the shared resource among the brokers.